Pets on public transport
How exactly does this work? Can you always take your pet with you on public transport? And do you have to pay for it? In general, the same rules apply to all public transport companies.
Pets on the train
Small pets are allowed on the train free of charge if they are in a bag, basket, or on your lap, but they cannot occupy their own seat. There are no other specific dimensions for the size of the pet.
Big dogs on the train
Some dogs, such as golden retrievers, are so big that they take up a seat. If you want to travel on an NS train, you will need a dog day pass. The day pass is valid all day, in combination with a valid ticket for the owner. You can buy the dog day pass online or at an NS ticket machine.
Alternative transport during construction
Do you travel on replacement buses that are used when construction on the tracks is going on? Pets are not allowed to travel on most of these buses. Only assistance dogs are always allowed.
Crossing borders with your pet
On international trains, different rules sometimes apply than those mentioned above. Check the rules for travelling with pets per route here.
Photo: @koda.sennendoodle on Instagram
Pets on the bus, tram, and metro
Pets can travel for free on the bus, tram, and metro. Do keep in mind the following rules:
Dogs must be kept on a short leash.
Dogs are not allowed to sit on seats.
Other pets, such as cats and rabbits, must be carried as hand luggage. For example, in a travel basket or in a travel rucksack.
Pets on the ferry
Waterbus/Aqualiner (the ferry from Rotterdam to Drechtsteden)
Pets can travel for free on the Waterbus and Aqualiner. If you are travelling with a dog, make sure the dog is on a short leash.
Rederij Doeksen (the ferry to Terschelling and Vlieland)
Pets can travel for free on the ferry. There are a few rules owners and pets must follow:
Dogs must be kept on a short leash.
Other pets, such as cats and rabbits, must be carried as hand luggage. For example, in a travel basket or in a travel rucksack.
A pet is not allowed to occupy a seat on board.
Please note pet-free zones on the ferry.
Teso (the ferry to Texel)
Your pet is allowed on board Teso for free.
Make sure pets are on a leash.
Your pet may remain (unattended) in the car during the boat journey. But make sure the pet cannot jump out of the car or cause a nuisance.
Wagenborg (the ferry to Ameland and Schiermonnikoog)
If you want to take your dog on the ferry to Ameland or Schiermonnikoog, you need to buy a ticket for the dog. You can buy this dog ticket online, in combination with an adult ticket. You cannot buy the ticket separately. Make sure your dog is always on a leash when on the ferry and does not occupy a seat.
Assistance dogs always travel free of charge
Do you travel with your assistance dog by train, bus, metro, tram, or ferry? Then your assistance dog always travels for free. However, the dog must be recognisable as an assistance dog. For example, by a harness, cover, or brace with a logo of an assistance dog organisation.