Can You Bring Animals on Greyhound?
Traveling with pets can often be a concern for many individuals, especially when it comes to using public transportation. If you're planning on traveling by Greyhound, you might be wondering whether you can bring your furry friends along for the journey. In this blog post, we will explore the policies and guidelines regarding animals on Greyhound buses, providing you with all the information you need to make an informed decision.
Greyhound's Pet Policy
Greyhound has a strict pet policy in place, which states that only service animals are allowed on their buses. Service animals are defined as dogs or miniature horses that are individually trained to perform tasks or do work for people with disabilities. These animals are permitted to accompany passengers at no additional charge, as long as they are trained to behave properly in public and remain under the control of their owners at all times.
Rules and Regulations
If you are traveling with a service animal on Greyhound, it's essential to familiarize yourself with their rules and regulations. Here are a few key points to keep in mind:
- Your service animal must be trained to perform tasks for your disability. Emotional support animals, therapy animals, or pets that do not have specific training do not qualify as service animals.
- You must provide credible verbal assurance that your animal is trained to perform tasks or assist you due to a disability.
- Your service animal must be harnessed, leashed, or tethered while on the bus, unless these devices interfere with the animal's work or the individual's disability prevents using them.
- If your service animal's behavior poses a direct threat to the health and safety of others, Greyhound may exclude the animal from traveling.
Pet Accommodations Alternatives
If you are not traveling with a qualified service animal, Greyhound does not currently allow pets on their buses. However, there are alternative options to consider if you wish to bring your pet along on your journey:
- Look for other means of transportation that allow pets, such as airlines or rental car companies that offer pet-friendly services.
- Check with local bus companies or public transportation options at your destination, as they may have different pet policies.
- Consider using a pet transportation service, which specializes in safely transporting pets.
- If your trip is not urgent, and your pet can handle it, you may also consider asking a friend or family member for a favor, and have them take care of your pet while you're away.
FAQ
Q: Can I bring my emotional support animal on Greyhound?
A: No, Greyhound only allows service animals that are individually trained to perform tasks for people with disabilities. Emotional support animals do not qualify as service animals.