VIA Rail allows pets on board Quebec City-Windsor trains

VIA Rail Canada Inc. is following Amtrak's lead in allowing pets on trains.

This week, the Canadian passenger railroad updated its pet transportation policy to allow small cats and dogs on board trains operating along the Quebec City-Windsor corridor.

Pets need to be transported in a hard- or soft-sided, leakproof and well-ventilated carrier placed at the passenger's feet. Riders need to reserve a space for their pets at least 48 hours ahead of their departure, according to a VIA Rail press release.

"We want to make sure that our changes reflect our passengers' evolving needs and improve the overall on board experience," said VIA Rail President and Chief Executive Officer Yves Desjardins-Siciliano. "In the following months, we will monitor the situation to ensure peaceful cohabitation between all travelers and will make adjustments as needed."