Getting on Public Transportation with a Service Dog

 Using public transportation is something that should be easy for both dog and handler. That isn’t always the case. Often there are policies about dogs being on the lift used to board, ramps, tight spaces and other challenges. 

Nick has been on planes, trains, and automobiles. Fortunately, even though he had issues with motion sickness as a puppy, he’s adapted well to travel. 

When he was a puppy, I was fully ambulatory. Becoming a part time scooter user changed a few things for us. When I don’t need to take my scooter with me, we can just walk on the vehicle, like we would any other doorway, maybe with some steps. 

Since I started using a scooter, we’ve had to make some changes and teach Nick some new skills. For starters, I’m not a fan of having Nick off leash where he could make a bad choice, so a dropped leash walk up the stairs while I’m on the leash isn’t something I want to teach. To me, it makes more sense to put him on me or my scooter. 

Nick and me getting off the bus, using a lift. 

Generally I have Nick on my scooter deck when I need him to be on it with me because I’ve taught him that being between my legs is a secure place for him to be.  He also knows how to lay in my lap. Unfortunately, when he’s in my lap, he tends to lean on the horn. 

Julie and Earl practicing for lift transport. 

When a ramp is present, it’s a matter of teaching the dog to go up the ramp either in front of the mobility device or behind it. If the dog is unsure of the bus, it’s helpful to have another person to potentially hold the leash while you board during training. I like to have the dog willing to follow through tight spaces before starting this stage of training. 

Lift Practice

Training for public transportation requires some creativity, especially if you’re owner training. Fortunately, in Clovis, we have an outside public elevator that we can use. It’s outside and has walls for safety.

Loading onto trains generally requires either using a lift or ramp, depending on the type of train (light rail, or Amtrak) and the station set up.  If the platform is raised, you’re more likely to use a ramp. Commercial airlines will either have a zig zagging ramp or jet way. Practice riding on buses is essential in either case.