One of our worries while moving to Bangalore was how to bring Goofy, our 3 yr old lab. We decided to bring him via train as I wouldn't trust flights to bring him in as cargo. Here, I'm sharing my experience and steps to be followed. 1/n

1) Book 1st AC ticket in the preferred train. Try and book in advance to get confirmed tickets. While booking the tickets, select the coupe option. You will not get seats assigned yet even if it's confirmed. 2/n

2) The seat allotment happens manually and to get a coupe (or same cabin) you will have to submit a written application at the Regional railway office. In Delhi, you will have to submit the application at Baroda House, Annexure 1, Dy CCM (13G office).

3) In the application, you can mention traveler names, train details & number, pnr, dog age and most importantly mobile number on which allotment information will be shared. Just ask for coupe allotment in the application. DM and I'll share my application for your reference.. 4/n

4) Along with the application, you need to submit a printout of
i) Confirmed train tickets
ii) Aadhar card copies (all travelers)
iii) Pet travel fitness certificate copy (not older than 48 hrs before train departure time)
iv) Dog vaccination record copy

5) This process should be done 1 day before your travel date. You do not need to take your dog while submitting the application.

On travel day, visit 4 hours before the train departure time & go to the parcel office. If you are at NDLS, parcel office is at Ajmeri Gate entry..6/n

6) You need a luggage / parcel ticket for your dog. In theory, you need to take your dog to the parcel office. But there are a lot of stray dogs, so I didn't take Goofy. You can either get the luggage ticket yourself or via an agent who's roaming around the office...7/n

7) Actual charge is Rs 1180, Agent quoted Rs 2500 (negotiable). DM if you need help here. You can just avoid visiting the parcel office if you do it via an agent.

8) You'll need the same documents while getting the luggage / parcel ticket as well.

That's it! Once you have the coupe confirmation & luggage ticket, you are good to go! Our TC didn't even check anything regarding Goofy as he was apparently scared of dogs 🐶

9) Very smooth and good experience. There are few longer halts where you can take your dog for relieving. The railway staff is very dog friendly and we didn't face any issues. Goofy was slightly scared in the beginning due to the train's movement. But gradually settled!

10) Let me know if you have any questions. RT / Like to share this tweet to a wider audience. Cheers! #irctc #railway #dog #travel max #travel