For a lot of people, it’s difficult to leave their beloved pets home alone or at a pound while they cruise away on a holiday.

For some, the extent of discomfort is so much so that they give up their holiday plan just to ensure that their four-legged furry friend is not devoid of their presence.

It maybe for weeks, a day, even 12 hours but how does one leave them behind? Here’s a thought for those who love to travel... take your pet along.

The Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) believes in keeping the man-animal bond strong by offering their passengers a chance to take their pet along while travelling.

“We are only happy to be able to provide this service to the people. We saw a need for many to take their pet from city to city for whatever reasons. It could be to a good veterinarian, which was necessary for people in the rural areas, or even a holiday at a relative’s place.  It’s also a great outing for the pet,” says Bhaskar Rao, Director, Security and Vigilance, KSRTC.

This is not restricted to man’s best friend alone. The department has given a go ahead for cats, monkeys, rabbits and birds to hop onto their bus and hit the road.

And all this in great comfort. “For a dog, we charge the fare of an adult human being and what’s more, the pet is entitled to a seat. All we ask for is that the dog be on a leash, well behaved and not cause trouble for the other passengers as well as our employees.

There will be pit stops for the pet to relieve themselves. For cats, rabbits and birds, it’s the fare of a child and they must be in an enclosed shelter next to the owner who is entirely responsible for the pet,” says Bhaskar Rao.

This service is available for KSRTC buses that ply the inter-city and inter-state routes and not within the City.
“There’s hardly any room for people commuting in City buses, we wouldn’t want to smother a poor animal in that rush.

Also, this is available for non-air conditioned buses only, keeping in mind the hygiene of passengers and comfort of the animal,” adds Bhaskar Rao.

Since dogs will not be caged, every bus will accommodate only one dog per journey, so as to avoid any disagreements between them on ‘territorial occupation’ giving them their required space.

 So if your concern is your furry fellow who doesn’t think too highly of socialising with his counterparts, the department will ensure he isn’t forced to.

“But an exception can be made to owners who have, say two dogs. As long as those two can get along it’s fine. As with regard to other animals, there isn’t too much of a problem as they will be in an enclosure,” he says.

The service, according to Bhaskar Rao, began early last year and has seen some response from people but they are looking forward to more in the near future.