When we mention dogs and the regulations pertaining to them, we are referring to pets. By law, service dogs of all sizes are allowed on public transportation in the United States. 

AMTRAK trains and GREYHOUND buses: Pets are not allowed.

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

California

Sacramento, CA (RT, 916-321-2877, http://www.sacrt.com): Small dogs in carriers are allowed on the buses and light rail. The carrier must fit on the person's lap.

San Diego, CA (MTS, 619-233-3004, http://www.sdcommute.com): Small dogs in enclosed carriers are allowed on the buses and light rail. You must be able to transport your dog and the carrier by yourself, and you need to hold the carrier on your lap. Noise or odor may give cause for refusal to transport the animal.

***San Francisco, CA (SF Municipal Railway, 415-673-6864, http://www.sfmuni.com):  Both small and large dogs are allowed on cable cars, historic streetcars and trolley buses. People must pay the same fare for their dog that they do for themselves. Dogs are allowed to ride on Muni vehicles from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and from 7 p.m. to 5 a.m. on weekdays, and all day on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. Only one of dog may ride per vehicle. Dogs must be muzzled and on a short leash or in a small closed container.

Colorado

Denver, CO (RTD, 303-299-6000, http://www.rtd-denver.com): Small dogs in hard-sided carriers are allowed on the buses and light rail.

Florida

Orlando, FL (LYNX, 407-841-5969, http://www.golynx.com): Small dogs in carriers that fit on your lap are allowed on the buses.

Georgia

Atlanta, GA (MARTA, 404-848-4900, http://www.itsmarta.com): Small dogs carried in a closed pet carrier that fits on your lap are allowed on the buses and trains.

Hawaii

Honolulu, HI (TheBus, 808-848-4500, http://www.thebus.org): The official rule is that only service dogs are allowed on the buses, but they told us that their drivers will usually let you bring a very small quiet dog in a carrier that fits on your lap.

Illinois

Chicago, IL (Chicago Transit Authority, 1-888-968-7282, http://www.transitchicago.com): Small dogs in carriers that fit on your lap are allowed on buses and trains. 

Massachusetts

***Boston, MA (MBTA, 617-222-3200, http://www.mbta.com): Both small and large dogs are allowed on the Boston T (subway). Small dogs may be transported in a carrier. Larger dogs may be taken on the T during off-peak hours and must be leashed and controlled at all times. At no time should a pet compromise safety, get in a passenger's way or occupy a seat.

***Hyannis, MA (Hy-Line Cruises Ferry Service, 508-778-2600, http://www.hy-linecruises.com): Both small and large dogs are allowed on the ferry. This ferry service runs from Cape Cod to Nantucket Island (1 hour on the high speed ferry) or Martha's Vineyard (1.5 hours). They also offer the only Inter-Island Ferry between Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard (2.25 hours). Pets are allowed on the ferries, but not in the first class lounge. Pets need to be leashed.

***Hyannis, MA (Steamship Authority Ferry Service, 508-447-8600, http://www.steamshipauthority.com): Both small and large dogs are allowed on the ferry. This ferry services runs from Cape Cod to Nantucket Island (2.25 hours) or Martha's Vineyard (1.5 hours). Pets are allowed on all ferries except for the M/V Flying Cloud fast ferry. Pets must be leashed or in a crate at all times. Pets are not allowed on the seats, tables, or in the concession areas.

***Nantucket, MA (NRTA, 508-228-7025, NRTA): Both small and large dogs are allowed on the shuttle buses. Pets must be leashed or caged, well-behaved, clean and dry, and pets cannot sit on the seats.

Michigan

***Charlevoix, MI (Beaver Island Boat Co.), 1-888-446-4095, http://www.bibco.com): This ferry line provides passenger and vehicle service between Charlevoix and St. James Harbor on Beaver Island. All trips are weather permitting and additional trips may be possible in December. Rates start at $20 per person one way ($35 round trip) and $10.50 per child one way ($17 round trip). Vehicles cost $61 and up one way ($122) round trip. Pets are allowed but the following rules apply. Leashed pets are allowed on the top deck for an extra $10 each way, but must be kept away from other passengers. They are not allowed inside the passenger cabin or on any tables or benches. You are not allowed ot groom your pet on the ferry. Dogs barking excessively may be refused passage. People are responsible for cleaning up after their pets. Pets can stay in your vehicle inside a portable kennel away from the driver at no charge. Or pets can stay in a portable kennel on the car deck for an extra $10 each way. If you do not have a portable kennel, the ferry line can rent one to you but reservations in advance are required. If you have any questions or to make a reservation, contact the ferry line at 1-888-446-4095.

New York

New York, NY (MTA, 718-330-1234, http://www.mta.nyc.ny.us): Small dogs in carriers are allowed on the Long Island Railroad, Long Island Bus and New York City Transit buses and subways. Small dogs in carriers or on a secure leash are allowed on the Metro-North Railroad. The pet carrier should be able to fit on your lap and should not occupy a seat. Dogs should not bother other passengers.

New York, NY (PATH, 800-234-7284, http://www.panynj.gov/path): Small dogs in secure carrying cases are allowed on the trains. 

New York, NY (Seastreak Ferry, 800-BOAT-RIDE, http://www.seastreakusa.com): Dogs of all sizes must stay on the outside portion of the ferry and they need to be on a short leash. Dogs are not allowed on the inside area regardless of the weather unless you have a small dog and he or she is in a carrier.

New Jersey

Hoboken, NJ (NJ Transit, 973-762-5100, http://www.njtransit.com): Small dogs in carriers are allowed on the light rail. 

North Cape May, NJ (Cape May-Lewes Ferry, 609-889-7200, http://www.capemaylewesferry.com): This ferry service provides transportation for vehicles and passengers between Cape May, New Jersey and Lewes, Delaware. The ferry cuts miles off of driving along the Atlantic coast. Pets are welcome but the following rules apply. For the M.V. Cape May, M.V. Delaware and M.V. Twin Cape ferries, pets are welcome on the ferry on exterior decks and any lounge areas where food is not being made, served or eaten. Pets are not allowed in the lounge area whenever there is a private party being hosted. For the M.V. Cape Henlopen and M.V. New Jersey ferries, pets are not allowed in any interior space but are allowed on all exterior decks. For all ferries, dogs of all sizes are allowed but need to be kept under control at all times and leashed or in a carrier. People need to clean up after their pets. Pets are not allowed in the shuttles. Rates start at $20 to $25 for a vehicle and driver. For a foot passenger with no car, rates start at $6 to $8 per person. Larger vehicles can be accommodated but there is an extra charge. The Cape May Terminal is located at Sandman Blvd. and Lincoln Drive in North Cape May, New Jersey. The Lewes Terminal is located at 43 Henlopen Drive in Lewes, Delaware. Rates are subject to change. For reservations or to check rates, call the ferry line toll free at 1-800-643-3779.

Ohio

***Catawba Island, OH (Miller Boat Line, 1-800-500-2421, http://www.millerferry.com): This ferry line offers service from the town of Catawba on the Ohio mainland to the Lilm Kiln Dock on South Bay Island which home to the town of Put-in-Bay. Travel time from dock to dock is about 18 minutes. The ferries runs year round, weather permitting, with ferries leaving every half hour during the day. Rates start at about $5 to $6 per person one way and $1 per child. The fare is free for children under 6 years old and for dogs. Leashed dogs are welcome on the ferries. Once on the island, there is a 2.5 mile walk from the ferry dock to Put-in-Bay. If you do not want to walk, you can opt to take the public Lilm Kiln Bus, a taxi or rent a golf cart. Dogs of all sizes are allowed in all of the above mentioned methods of transportation as long as they are well-behaved and leashed. The Miller Boat Line transports mainly passengers but also offers limited vehicle service. Vehicles leaving Catawba cannot be transported round trip on Saturdays, Sundays or Holiday Mondays. Drivers must show written proof of an accommodation in order to bring a vehicle to the island on the weekends. For full vehicle requirements please contact the ferry line directly by phone or check their web site at http//www.millerferry.com. This ferry line also offers passenger and vehicle service from Catawba to Middle Bass Island. To get to the Catawba Dock, take Route 2 to Route 53 which will bring you right to the dock. Free parking is provided.

Cincinnati, OH (SORTA Metro, 513-632-7575, http://www.sorta.com): The Southwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority (SORTA) allows small dogs in carriers that you can hold on your lap on their buses.

Cleveland, OH (Greater Cleveland RTA, 216-566-5227, http://www.gcrta.org): The Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (RTA) allows people to bring dogs less than 25 pounds in a carrier on their buses.

***Marblehead, OH (Kelleys Island Ferry Boat Line, 419-798-9763, http://www.kelleysislandferry.com): This ferry line transports passengers from Marblehead to Kelleys Island which is about a 20 minute ride. It operates year round, weather permitting. They offer limited vehicle transportation. Dogs are welcome but need to be leashed.

***Port Clinton, OH (Jet Express, 1-800-245-1538, http://www.jet-express.com): This ferry company offers passenger service from Port Clinton on the Ohio mainland directly to downtown Put-in-Bay on South Bass Island. Their catamaran boat can travel up to 40 miles per hour making it a fast ride across the lake. Fares start at about $12 per person one way. Children 12 and under, as well as pets of all ages, ride free. Dogs are welcome but need to be leashed and well-behaved. Pets must stay on the outside deck of the ferry. To get to the Port Clinton dock, take Route 2 and take exit 163 North Port Clinton.

***Put-in-Bay, OH (Lilm Kiln Bus, 419-285-4855, http://www.put-in-bay-trans.com/lkbus.htm): Well-behaved dogs on leash are allowed on the island shuttle bus as long as there is room for them. The bus transports passengers between the Miller Ferry Dock (Lilm Kiln Dock) and downtown Put-in-Bay. The fare is $2 per person one way.

***Put-in-Bay, OH (Commodore Perry Cab, 419-285-5218): This taxi cab company provides seasonal service during the summer months. They can transport you and your dog from the Lilm Kiln Dock to downtown Put-in-Bay for about $3 per person each way. There is not usually any extra charge for pets. Well-mannered leashed dogs are welcome.

***South Bass Island, OH (Island Bike Rental, 419-285-2016, http://www.put-in-bay-trans.com/bikmini.htm): You and your pooch can rent a mini golf cart to drive from the ferry docks to the town of Put-in-Bay or around the rest of the island. Golf carts vary in size and can carry from 2 to 6 passengers. Leashed dogs are welcome on the cart rentals. The rentals are located both at the Jet Express dock in downtown Put-in-Bay and at the Miller Boat Line Ferry at the Lilm Kiln dock. Rates run about $10 to $16 per hour or $50 to $70 per day depending on the size of the golf cart.

Texas

Dallas, TX (DART, 214-979-1111, http://www.dart.org): Small dogs in carriers are allowed on the light rail and buses.

Virginia

Richmond, VA (GRTC, 804-358-GRTC, http://www.ridegrtc.com): Small dogs in carriers are allowed on the buses.

Washington

***Anacortes, WA (Washington State Ferries, 206-464-6400, http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/ferries): Both small and large dogs are allowed on the ferries. On the newer ferries that have outside stairwells, dogs are allowed on the car deck and on the outdoor decks above the car deck. If the ferry has indoor stairwells, dogs are only allowed on the deck where they boarded the ferry. For example, if your dog comes onto the ferry in your car, he or she has to remain on the car deck. If you walk onto the ferry with your dog, your pooch is allowed on the outside deck where you boarded but cannot go onto other decks. In cases where your pet has to remain on the car deck, you can venture to the above decks without your pet to get food at the snack bars. However, the ferry system recommends in general that you stay with your pooch in the car. For any of the ferries, dogs are not allowed inside the ferry terminals. Pets must be leashed.

***Seattle, WA (King County Metro, 206-553-3000, http://transit.metrokc.gov): Both small and large dogs are allowed on the street cars and buses. Small dogs that fit in their owner's lap ride for free. Large dogs are charged the same fare as their owner and should not occupy a seat. Large dogs should ride on the floor of the bus, preferably under the seat. If you have a very large dog, it is up to the driver as to whether or not your dog will be allowed. One large dog per bus is allowed. Dogs must be leashed.

Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C. (WMATA, 202-962-1234, http://www.wmata.com): Small dogs in carriers are allowed on the buses and trains. Pets must remain in the carrier, with no possibility that the pet can get out.

Wisconsin

***Milwaukee, WI (Lake Express), 1-866-914-1010, http://www.lake-express.com): This ferry line provides passenger and vehicle service between Milwaukee, Wiconsin and Muskegon, Michigan. The high speed crossing takes only 2.5 hours saving a long drive through Chicago. Pets are allowed but the following rules apply. Pets need to stay in your vehicle or in a kennel which is kept on the car deck. You cannot visit your pet during the ferry ride, but a crew person is station on the car deck throughout the trip. A limited supply of kennels are available to rent. Rates are $7.50 per kennel one way and $15 round trip. Reservations are required for a kennel. You can also use your own portable kennel on the car deck. Rates start at $50 per person one way ($85 round trip) and less for children and seniors. Transporting a vehicle starts a rate of $50 one way ($118 round trip). Vehicle rates do not include fares for a driver or passengers. Trailers can be accommodated for an extra fee. Rates are subject to change.

CANADA

Toronto

***Toronto, ON (TTC, 416-393-INFO, http://www.city.toronto.on.ca/ttc): Both small and large dogs are allowed during non-rush hour on the  subway, buses, and streetcars. Pets must be on a leash or in a carrier.

Vancouver

***Vancouver, BC (Albion Ferry, 604-467-7298, Albion Ferry): Both small and large dogs are allowed on the ferry. If you walk onto the ferry with no car, your pet must be leashed. If your dog comes onto the ferry in your vehicle, he or she needs to stay in the car. This ferry is run by the Fraser River Marine Transportation company and is a subsidiary of TransLink. 

***Vancouver, BC (AquaBus Ferries, 604-689-5858, http://www.aquabus.bc.ca): Well-behaved leashed dogs, both small and large, are welcome on the ferries.

***Vancouver, BC (BC Ferries, 250-386-3431, http://www.bcferries.bc.ca): Both small and large dogs are allowed on the ferries. Dogs are only allowed on the open air car deck and must stay in your car or tied in a designated pet area. Owners must stay with their pets.

Vancouver, BC (Translink,604-953-3333, http://www.translink.bc.ca): Small dogs in hard-sided carriers are allowed on the SeaBus (ferry), SkyTrain (train) and buses.

***Victoria, BC (Victoria Express, 250-361-9144, http://www.victoriaexpress.com): Both small and large dogs are allowed on the ferries. Pets must be leashed. 

***=allows both small and large dogs

If you know of any pet-friendly public transportation that we do not have listed here, please let us know by sending us an email.