Metra To Test Policy Allowing Pets On Trains
CHICAGO (CBS) -- As things stand now, Metra riders are not allowed to take pets on board, but on Wednesday the commuter rail agency's board will discuss whether to test allowing pets on one of its lines.
Pet owners petitioned Metra last year to allow such a test, and riders surveyed by the agency have given a test the thumbs' up.
Metra spokesman Michael Gillis said the test would be limited to weekends, and only on its Rock Island District.
Pets would have to be placed in a crate that could be carried on a rider's lap, or under a seat. If a pet were to become loud, unruly, or smelly, conductors could ask the owner and pet to leave the train.
After a three-month trial, the program will be reassessed to determine if it should be expanded or eliminated, according to Gillis.
The policy is based on those at a number of other transit agencies, most of which say they don't see many pets.