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General Questions

Can I bring my dog on GO Transit?

Yes, small dogs are welcome on GO Transit when properly contained in an enclosed, leak-proof carrier. The carrier must fit on your lap or under your seat and not exceed the maximum dimensions of 55cm x 40cm x 23cm (22in x 16in x 9in).

Do I have to pay for my dog to travel on GO Transit?

No, pets travel free on GO Transit. There is no additional fare required for bringing your dog in an approved carrier. You only need to pay your own regular fare.

Can I bring my dog on both GO trains and buses?

Yes, the pet policy applies to all GO Transit services, including trains and buses. The same carrier requirements and rules apply across the entire network.

Is there a limit to how many pets I can bring?

While there is no official limit, you should only bring as many pets as you can safely manage. Each pet must be in its own carrier, and all carriers must meet the size requirements and fit on your lap or under your seat.

Carrier Requirements

What are the carrier size requirements?

Pet carriers must not exceed the following dimensions:

  • Length: 55 cm (22 inches)
  • Width: 40 cm (16 inches)
  • Height: 23 cm (9 inches)

The carrier must fit comfortably on your lap or under the seat in front of you.

What type of carrier is acceptable?

Acceptable carriers include hard-sided plastic carriers, soft-sided fabric carriers with reinforced sides, airline-approved pet carriers, and pet backpack carriers with enclosed compartments. The carrier must be fully enclosed, leak-proof, and have secure closures.

Can I use a pet stroller instead of a carrier?

Pet strollers are generally not permitted as they exceed the size limits and cannot fit on your lap or under the seat. If your stroller has a detachable carrier that meets the size requirements, you may use that portion as your pet carrier.

Can my dog stick their head out of the carrier?

No, dogs must remain fully inside the carrier with all openings securely closed. The carrier must be fully enclosed to ensure the safety of your pet and other passengers.

During the Journey

Can my dog sit on the seat next to me?

No, dogs must remain in their carriers throughout the journey. Carriers cannot be placed on seats; they must stay on your lap or under the seat in front of you.

Can I let my dog out of the carrier during the trip?

No, your dog must remain inside the carrier for the entire journey. This is for the safety and comfort of all passengers. You may briefly open the carrier to offer water or treats, but your dog should not exit the carrier.

What if my dog barks or is disruptive?

If your dog is persistently disruptive and disturbing other passengers, you may be asked to exit at the next stop. Try to calm your dog with soft words, treats, or familiar items. Consider practicing with shorter trips if your dog is anxious about travel.

Where should I sit with my pet?

You can sit in any available seat. However, choosing a seat near the door can make boarding and exiting easier. Avoid accessibility seating unless you require it, and be mindful of passengers with allergies who may need to sit away from pets.

Service Animals

Are service animals allowed on GO Transit?

Yes, service animals are always welcome on GO Transit without any carrier requirement. They travel free of charge and may accompany their handlers throughout the entire transit system.

Do I need to show documentation for my service animal?

No documentation is required to bring a service animal on GO Transit. However, your service animal should be identifiable through visual indicators such as a vest or harness, or you should be able to provide documentation from a regulated health professional if requested.

What qualifies as a service animal?

A service animal is one that is trained to perform specific tasks for a person with a disability. This includes guide dogs, hearing dogs, mobility assistance dogs, seizure alert dogs, psychiatric service dogs, and medical alert dogs.

Can my emotional support animal travel without a carrier?

Emotional support animals are not classified the same as service animals under Ontario law. Unless your animal is a trained service animal, it must travel in an approved carrier that meets GO Transit requirements.

Large Dogs and Special Cases

Can I bring a large dog on GO Transit?

Only dogs that fit comfortably in an approved carrier meeting the size requirements (55cm x 40cm x 23cm) are permitted. Large dogs that cannot fit in a compliant carrier are not allowed on GO Transit, except for service animals which have no size restrictions.

Are any breeds restricted from traveling on GO Transit?

GO Transit does not have breed-specific restrictions. Any dog that fits in an approved carrier and behaves appropriately may travel on the system. However, all dogs must comply with provincial and municipal laws regarding dog ownership.

Can I bring other pets besides dogs?

Yes, other small pets such as cats, rabbits, and small caged animals are also permitted on GO Transit, provided they are in an appropriate carrier that meets the size requirements. The same rules that apply to dogs apply to all pets.

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