{

Renfe expanded its ticket options to allow traveling with dogs on select AVE and long-distance trains between Madrid and Barcelona and back. The program permits dogs up to 40 kilograms and introduces a pilot on a limited set of direct and semi-direct routes on the Madrid–Barcelona corridor. Only one large dog is allowed per traveler, with a maximum of two large dogs per train, confined to a fixed area that includes two designated locations in a single car.

Related

• Here are the pets that can no longer be kept at home with the new law

The operator notes that service dogs and pets weighing less than 10 kilograms are not included in this change and that existing business regulations will still apply for these animals.

These changes align with a broader push to make rail travel more pet-friendly while balancing passenger comfort and safety.

These are the most popular dog names

Agate Candela Millan

Nestlé Purina advised Renfe on the project, preparing a travel guide with best practices for customers and their pets to make train journeys enjoyable while protecting the animal’s welfare. Suggestions include bringing a personal blanket and toy, avoiding feeding the dog in the first hours of travel, and walking the dog beforehand to reduce discomfort.

New Animal Welfare Law: when does it come into effect?

Renfe Viajeros and Nestlé Purina coordinate on rail services. Travelers with dogs up to 40 kilograms can use AVE and long-distance trains. Before the trip, passengers must complete and sign a responsible declaration and meet service terms and obligations.

Reasons why you shouldn’t follow the Instagram trend to dye your dog’s hair

• Obligation to travel with dogs up to 40 kg
• This pet must be under the control of the owner at all times during the journey
• Travelers should bring vaccination cards or passports, as well as identification documents (microchip) and up-to-date vaccines
• If traveling to a foreign country, review any special requirements such as veterinary certificates
• Travelers must be recognized as responsible for the animal or have signed authorization from the owner
• A responsible statement confirming data accuracy may be required due to Renfe communications about a Pet Friendly community
• Owners of large pets should arrive at least 30 minutes early at the station’s Service Center
• Owners must ensure the dog behaves appropriately to avoid discomfort for others
• Ownership requires the animal to stay close to the passenger at all times in the station and on board
• The dog must remain seated in its assigned place with a muzzle and a secure, inextensible leash up to 2 meters
• The animal can use either the floor or window seats, provided a protective cover and mat are correctly placed
• The owner should not move around the train; if necessary, the dog must be secured to the seat or window area while the traveler uses the bathroom
• Dogs should arrive groomed and calm
• The owner should carry a cleaning kit for any mess, including wipes, bags, disinfectant, and deodorizing spray
• Travel with an anxious dog is not permitted
• Dogs under 1 year or certain breeds may be restricted

• Tips for traveling with dogs up to 40 kg
• It is recommended to bathe the dog the day before to minimize odors
• Bring the pet’s blanket and favorite toy; avoid loud surroundings
• Before boarding, walk the animal to help it relax
• Ensure the dog has had sufficient physical activity before travel for comfort
• Avoid feeding the dog within three hours of travel to reduce motion sickness
• Water is available if needed; keep fresh water handy
• If the pet urinates or defecates in the designated area, the owner must clean it immediately with the provided kit
• If the animal is ill, vomiting, or has diarrhea, travel should be postponed and a vet visit prior to the trip is advised to verify health and vaccination status

The partnership between Nestlé Purina and Renfe, represented by Mark El-Khoury and Sonia Araujo, aims to promote pet-friendly travel and support related rail services and activities.

Corgi: This is the breed of dogs that accompanied Elizabeth II.

On AVE and long-distance trains, small pets such as dogs, cats, ferrets, and non-poultry birds are allowed to travel in cages or carriers with a maximum size of 60x35x35 cm, with up to one pet per person and a pet ticket required. Pets with a ticket do not occupy a separate seat and may travel free under certain fare conditions; otherwise an additional fee applies for bringing a pet.

Half of dogs and cats collected by guardians adopted in 2021

On mid-distance and Avant trains, small pets can travel under the same size restrictions. The pet ticket price is set at 25% of the general rate, and combined train plus bus tickets for pets are not accepted. Guide and assistant dogs travel free and are not subject to weight or shipping limits.