New options for high-speed rail pet transport

China’s railway authorities has launched an upgraded high-speed rail pet transport service, offering travelers more flexible options for accompanied or unaccompanied pet shipping.

The new service, branded “爱宠行” (Pet Travel), expands its reach to more than 120 stations and 228 train services nationwide, according to the official WeChat account of China Railway.

Following a successful pilot program that has safely transported more than 15,000 pets since it was launched a year ago, the expansion addresses the surging demand among China's urban pet owners.

While not restricted to specific stations in Shenzhen, the service is available on selected high-speed train routes. Travelers can check eligibility directly through the 12306 booking app, where trains offering pet transport are marked with a dedicated symbol.

A cat looks out from a dedicated pet transport container waiting to be loaded onto a train at Chongqing West Railway Station in Chongqing on Feb. 9. Photos by Xinhua

Travel with pets & pet shipment

The updated system introduces two options designed to meet different needs:

“携宠出行” (Travel with pets) allows passengers with tickets to transport their pets on the same train. Users can book both tickets and pet cargo space via the 12306 app, with each passenger allowed up to two pets.

“爱宠单独行” (Pets traveling alone) is aimed at customers who are not traveling themselves. Bookings must be made two to five days in advance through the China Railway Express WeChat miniprogram, with one pet allowed per shipment.

Both options apply to domesticated cats and dogs in good health, with weight and size limits in place.

Pricing is based on distance, with seasonal discounts available for passengers traveling with pets. Each shipment includes basic insurance coverage of up to 2,000 yuan (US$275).

A view of the inside of a pet transport container.

Focus on safety and convenience

Pets are transported in upgraded smart containers stored in dedicated cargo cabinets, separate from passenger areas. The containers feature air circulation, oxygen and temperature monitoring, and newly added functions such as automatic water replenishment and night-vision monitoring.

Railway staff monitor pets throughout the journey via built-in systems, while owners cannot access animals during transit.

The expansion comes as more urban residents in China seek ways to integrate pets into their travel plans, reflecting broader shifts in lifestyle and consumption. Railway authorities said they will continue improving the service and explore new models such as combining pet transport with tourism offerings.

Railway staff handle handover procedures for pet transport at Chongqing West Railway Station in Chongqing on Feb. 9.