April 11 is observed as National Pet Day. The day was first observed by Colleen Paige in 2006. Paige wanted to draw attention to the plight of stray animals or those that live in shelters without much care
Travelling with pets is both complicated and challenging. Indian Railways and various airlines have pet-friendly rules. But there are many clauses to be followed to get seats or boxes reserved while travelling
According to indianrailways.gov.in, a pet dog can be carried in a dog box in second-class luggage and brake van (SLR)
A dog is also permitted to travel with the passenger in AC first class compartments only if the whole coupe is booked by the passenger
A dog carried in a dog box is charged at luggage rates applicable to the train at Rs 30 kg per pet dog. Dogs can be carried in AC first class and first class at the luggage rate of Rs 60 kg per dog. There is no advance booking
For cats, you can either book first-class AC tickets, either a cabin with 4 seats, or a coupe with 2 seats as per your requirement.
For domestic travels, Air India allows small pet animals such as cats, dogs and birds in the cargo hold or cabin. The age of dogs and cats must be eight weeks and their weight should not exceed five kg for carriage in the cabin
For international flights, cats, dogs, household birds and other pets with valid health, vaccination certificates and entry permit and those which are promptly crated will be permitted for carriage. The travel charges are same as excess baggage charges
Akasa Air permits passengers to travel with pets in the cabin and carry them in the cargo compartment
Airlines such as Vistara, IndiGo, SpiceJet, Air Asia, Emirates do not permit pets to travel with their owners on any of their flights. They also don’t allow them as checked baggage on any of their flights
Qatar Airways allows only falcons to travel with the passengers in the economy class cabin. Pet cats or dogs are not permitted in the cabin. Domesticated cats, dogs and birds are permitted as checked baggage