Dogs, cats and other small pets could soon have greater access to public transport under new proposals from the National Transport Authority (NTA).
The NTA wants small dogs, cats and other animals to be allowed on buses, trains and the Luas, as long as they do not pose a safety risk to other passengers.
Pets would have to stay on their owner’s lap or on the ground. They would not be allowed on seats or to block aisles and passageways.
The proposals follow a public consultation which received 2,567 submissions. The NTA said the large majority strongly supported allowing pets on public transport.
Small pets would not have to be kept in a carrier or basket. The NTA has dropped that proposal following concerns that it would be impractical.
Larger dogs could also be allowed on public transport. They would have to be kept on a lead and wear a muzzle.
However, larger dogs could be refused if a bus, train, Luas or DART service is already at capacity.
The NTA also wants animals to be kept away from other pets while travelling.
There would be no change to the current rules for guide dogs and assistance dogs. They can continue to travel on public transport without restriction.
The NTA said allowing pets on public transport could make it easier for people without cars to travel to vets, parks and visit family.
Supporters also said the changes could encourage greater use of public transport and reduce car dependency.
The NTA said concerns were also raised during the consultation, including allergies, fear of dogs, hygiene and safety.
Some passengers also called for designated pet areas on buses, trains, the Luas and DART.
The NTA will now work on revisions to its bye-laws and with public transport operators on how the new rules could be introduced.
It said it will take some time to finalise and implement the changes.
