When the Capitol Corridor launched its “Pets Onboard” rail service a year ago, many Northern California commuters didn’t even know it existed. Today, more than 1,000 pets have traveled the rails between Sacramento, Oakland, Berkeley, and San Jose, quietly transforming daily commutes for dog and cat owners.
The program, which allows small pets to ride alongside their owners for $29 each way, filled a major gap. Public transit usually excludes pets, forcing drivers onto traffic-choked highways. Now, pet-owning commuters have a practical alternative.
How the program works
Dogs and cats up to 20 pounds, including their carrier, are welcome aboard Capitol Corridor trains, provided their carrier fits comfortably beneath the seat. Carriers must measure no more than 19 inches long by 14 inches wide and 10.5 inches high. Only one pet is allowed per reservation, and pets must remain in carriers throughout the journey.
Trains accommodate up to six pets each, available for booking online in advance. Pets can ride in most cars but are restricted from the Quiet Car and Café Car.
Quiet success on the rails
In its first year alone, Pets Onboard generated more than $30,000 in revenue. But the real measure of success has been its effect on commuters’ daily lives.
“It’s such a relief to finally be able to travel without leaving my dog at home,” said Bay Area commuter and Capitol Corridor regular Michelle Ruiz in a Reddit rail discussion. “I don’t need to stress about traffic or finding parking. My commute feels calmer and easier, and my dog seems to enjoy the adventure.”
Another regular rider, Sacramento-based Alex Liu, commented in a commuter Facebook group that the pet program changed his commuting routine entirely. “Honestly, it makes my day better,” Liu wrote. “Even sitting quietly on the train feels less lonely when your dog is curled up right by your feet.”
Navigating pet-friendly train rides
To make a pet-friendly rail trip easier, regular riders share practical tips online. According to commuters on Reddit’s CaliforniaRail group, booking early is crucial since each train only allows six pets. They also suggest getting pets comfortable in carriers at home before travel day to help animals stay relaxed during the trip.
One dog owner noted on a commuter forum that choosing seats away from aisles reduces stress for anxious pets. Others suggested carriers with mesh panels to ensure proper ventilation and visibility, keeping pets calm while on the move.
Community connections onboard
Beyond convenience, the Pets Onboard program is building connections between pet-owning commuters. Shared experiences on social media forums create an informal network of riders who swap advice, favorite stations for breaks, and even pet-friendly activities at their destinations.
“The program doesn’t just let pets on trains, it’s helping us meet each other,” said Samantha Delaney, a frequent rider interviewed through a Sacramento-area rail commuter group on Facebook. “We’re becoming a small community. It’s something I never expected from commuting.”
What comes next?
While Capitol Corridor’s program continues strong into late 2025, commuter chatter suggests potential expansions. Online discussions speculate about similar services on other California routes like the San Joaquin line toward Fresno or weekend pet passes.
The Capitol Corridor’s official policy remains steady for now, keeping the service straightforward and consistent for riders. The success of the Pets Onboard program speaks for itself, proving that allowing pets on public transit isn’t just possible, it’s practical and profitable.
One year after its quiet debut, the Capitol Corridor’s pet-friendly initiative is redefining Northern California commuting, one wagging tail at a time.
