Good news for pet owners in Spain as dogs weighing up to 40 kilos will now be able to travel on all Renfe train services starting this Tuesday July 21st.
Spain’s state-owned rail company Renfe has announced that it is extending its pet policy to all services. This means pets weighing up to 40 kilos will now be able to travel on AVE, Avlo, Alvia, Euromed, and Intercity trains, as well as Avant and Media Distancia.
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Renfe will also allow passengers to bring their dogs on board at any stop on the journey, not just the departure station.
Up until now, pets weighing up to 40 kg, not in a special carrier, could only travel on AVE trains on routes between Madrid-Zaragoza-Barcelona, Madrid-Málaga, Madrid-Valencia, Madrid-Alicante and Madrid-Granada.
Each train will only be allowed to carry two dogs of this weight and they must travel in the “pet friendly” carriage.
Animals will have to sit next to the window and must be on a non-extendable 1.5-metre leash, as well as wear a muzzle.
Dog breeds that typically weigh over 40 kg and therefore still won’t be allowed include English Mastiff, Saint Bernard, Great Dane and Irish Wolfhound.
READ ALSO: When and where must dogs be kept on a leash in Spain?
Renfe has also said it will simplify the purchase process and the documentation required for dogs at boarding checkpoints.
Tickets can be purchased through the usual channels including the website, app, in person at train stations and agencies, and will be identified via a dog paw print.
The cost is €40 on AVE, Alvia, Intercity, Euromed and Avlo trains, while on Avant and Media Distancia trains, owners will just pay the general fare.
READ ALSO: What are the rules for taking your pets on holiday in Spain?
When you purchase your dog ticket, the system will automatically assign two seats next to each other – one for you and one for your dog. The day before your trip, Renfe will send an email reminding you of the travel conditions and recommendations.
Owners will have to travel with an up-to-date vaccination record or a European pet passport. They must also carry a cleaning kit with them including an absorbent pad, wipes, bags, disinfectant and anti-odour spray.
Most services will have a seat cover and a mat to place on the dog’s seat, which must be removed afterwards.
READ ALSO: Are emotional support animals recognised in Spain?
It’s worth pointing out that certain dogs won’t be allowed to travel on Renfe trains at all, no matter their size.
These include puppies under one year old, potentially dangerous breeds and females in heat.
Pets will also not be allowed on connecting trains or trains with scheduled alternative transport plans.
READ ALSO: How to legally buy a pet in Spain
According to the latest official stats, there are around 7.5 million dogs living in Spain. That is roughly the same number of dogs as there are children under the age of 16.
