In Italy, dogs will enjoy a special treat this summer. From 1st June to 15th September, 2025, pet dogs can ride for free on Trenitalia’s Frecce and Intercity long-distance trains. According to Wanted In Rome, this is all thanks to a new program from the national rail company. This initiative aims to promote animal welfare and discourage pet abandonment during the busy holiday season.
The initiative “is part of Trenitalia’s efforts to lessen the issue of pet abandonment as families leave for summer vacations.” Each summer, many dogs are left behind or abandoned at Italian shelters when their owners go on holiday. This happens a lot more in August, when most Italians take their longest vacations.
This Is How The Free Travel For Dogs Works
To benefit from this offer, pet owners need to make reservations through Trenitalia’s website, app, ticket offices, or travel agencies. Then they are required to select the “Viaggia con il tuo cane” (“Travel with your dog”) option during booking. Typically, owners must buy a ticket for medium and large dogs, but the campaign removes this fee.
However, some rules need to be followed. Firstly, owners must keep their dogs on a leash and fit them with a muzzle while on the train. Owners must carry the dog’s registration certificate and health booklet. For non-Italian travelers, the dog must have a valid European pet passport. Small pets that can fit in carriers no larger than 70x30x50 cm can always travel for free on Trenitalia trains, and this rule still applies. Trenitalia also always allows guide dogs for visually impaired passengers onboard at no cost.
Per Trenitalia’s guidelines, “The initiative supports responsible pet ownership and makes it easier for families to travel with their four-legged friends.” The free dog travel offer is only valid on Frecciarossa, Frecciargento, Frecciabianca, and Intercity trains, not on regional services.
For travel within cities and regions, different regulations and ticketing rules apply. Animal rights organizations in Italy have praised this initiative and hope it inspires other travel companies in Europe. For pet owners planning a summer vacation, this offer makes it easier to include their pets in their travel plans without causing financial strain or emotional distress.
