Amtrak now allows pets on three Midwest routes

Amtrak has expanded its pets-on-board program to state-sponsored routes in Michigan, Missouri and Wisconsin, the national passenger railroad announced yesterday.

Under the program, riders may bring small dogs and cats in carriers on Blue Water, Wolverine, Pere Marquette, Missouri River Runner and Hiawatha trains.

Since the railroad kicked off a pilot program in Illinois in 2014, more than 6,300 pets have traveled with their owners on Amtrak trains. That program was made permanent in 2015 and expanded to Northeast Corridor routes last October.

Owners must pay a $25 fee to reserve space for their pet on the train.