This summer, pets ride for free on Italian trains

Trenitalia has announced that it wants to reduce the phenomenon of domestic animals being left behind alone while their owners go on holidays

Trenitalia, the Italian state railway company has launched a new offer for the summer – Travel with us and bring your pet for free. The offer is valid until 15 September on all Frecce (high-speed) and Intercity trains, any day of the week.

The aim of the public transit provider is two-fold. On one hand, the company wants to do something about the phenomenon of pet abandonment during the holiday season, showing it cares about the welfare of animals as much as it does about humans.

On the other hand, it wants to encourage a worry-free mindset among those people who skip on having a holiday due to a reluctance to leave their pets behind. Some animals, in fact, tend to suffer more from periods of separation than even their owners do. 

Who is eligible?

All smaller four-legged companions, such as small dogs and cats qualify for the free ticket promotion. Basically, that goes for any pet that fits in a carrier with a maximum size of 70x30x50 centimetres.

For all those whose animals fall under these conditions, transport is valid in both first and second class. The offer is also valid on all trains and in the Executive, Business, Premium and Standard service levels. The entrance to the restaurant and bar car remains inaccessible for animals, with the only exception of guide dogs for blind travellers.

Large dogs will require a ticket, but the good news is that it will be reduced by 50% compared to the ordinary rate. The larger pooches will also have to be kept on a leash and wearing a muzzle.

It gets even better. Trenitalia's offer is not limited to the possibility of bringing small pets with you, but also allows passengers to save on travel even after 16 September. 

From that date onward, the owners of dogs and cats will still be able to save on the cost of the ticket for their four-legged friends. The pet ticket will cost 5 euros for all journeys from Sunday to Friday, while for those travelling on Saturdays will pay only 1 euro.