China’s railway operator, China Railway Express Co., launched a new program allowing pets onboard to select high-speed trains along the Beijing-Shanghai High-Speed Railway. Pet owners can reserve pet transfer services via the 12306 app starting from April 8.
In this Pacific Prime article, we share more details on how you can bring your pets on board, the arrangements for your pets inside the trains, and what you need to know about eligibility and costs.
Which Trains Allow Pets On Board?
The pilot program is available on 10 G-series trains operating between five major stations:
- Beijing South
- Jinan West
- Nanjing South
- Shanghai Hongqiao
- Hangzhou East
You can bring pets on board the following trains:
- G119/118
- G121/122
- G127
- G134
- G183/184
- G195/186
What Arrangements Are Available For My Pet On Board The Trains?
Your pet will be placed in a high-speed rail-exclusive kennel. The kennel is equipped with air circulation, oxygen and humidity sensors, noise reduction, and odor control. Railway staff can monitor the kennels in real time, and they will conduct inspections at intervals of no more than 2 hours.
Your pet will be placed in a separate compartment in the train for everyone’s safety and comfort. Water may be provided on board, but feeding and visits during the journey are not allowed.
Upon arriving at your destination, you will be notified via text message or phone call when your pet is ready for pickup. You can pick up your pet within one hour after arrival. A “same departure, same arrival” policy is in place, ensuring that you and your pet travel on the same train.
Wang Lin, a manager from China Railway Express’s Hangzhou branch, said the Beijing-Shanghai line has the most passengers and train frequency, making it a good testing ground for pet-friendly services.
How To Book Your Pet For The Journey?
You can make reservations for you and your pet through the 12306 app under the “Pet Transport” section. You have to make the reservation at least two days in advance. Bring your valid ID, train ticket, and a valid Animal Health Certificate on the day of your journey.
On the day of travel, head to the China Railway Express counter at your departure station to check in your pet.
As of writing, the 12306 website and app offer English versions, but the “Pet Transport” feature is available only in Chinese. For assistance in English, please contact the 12306 hotline.
Eligibility of Pets On Trains
Not all pets are allowed in the pilot program. Your pet can be allowed to board the train if it:
- Is a domesticated cat or dog in good health
- Weighs under 15 kilograms
- Has a shoulder height of 40 centimeters or less
How Much Would The Fare Cost For My Pet?
Fares will vary depending on the distance you travel, but during the trial period, you can enjoy a 30% discount on fares. Each booking includes a basic pet insurance coverage of RMB 2,000, ensuring your pet is safe during your travels.
A one-hour journey from Hangzhou to Nanjing costs around RMB 500, which includes tickets for you and your pet.
Why Are Pets Now Allowed On High-Speed Trains?
According to Wu Yi, an associate professor at the College of Animal Science and Technology at China Agricultural University, there is a surge in China’s pet population and a growing influence of the pet economy. This prompted the rollout of the high-speed railway pet consignment service.
“The demand has prompted the transport sector to facilitate pet-friendly trips, including the development of specialized travel equipment,” said Wu Yi.
China has a growing pet community, which prompted transportation services to expand their services to pets as well. For instance, the aviation industry started introducing pet-in-cabin services, allowing travellers to bring their furry companions with them.
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