Woof Woof, Canine Capers on Seattle Buses? You Betcha!
Ever feel like your furry friend is giving you the side-eye every time you head out the door? Well, fret no more, Seattle dog owners! Unleash the good boy (or girl) within and hit the road...or rather, the bus! That's right, Seattle's King County Metro system is about as dog-friendly as a fire hydrant convention. But before you unleash your inner Cruella de Vil and dye your poodle to match the bus seats (please don't!), let's break down the doggone rules of canine commuting.
Small Dogs: Free Riders on the Lap of Luxury
Fido the chihuahua? Sparky the pug? These pint-sized pooches are in luck! As long as they can comfortably cuddle on your lap, they ride for free. Think of it as a doggy discount for being, well, adorable. Just be sure they're properly leashed and, ahem, housebroken (no one wants a doggy disaster on the downtown express!).
Big Dog on Campus (or Bus, Rather): Fido Pays the Fare
Tip: Context builds as you keep reading.
Don't worry, Clifford the Big Red Dog wouldn't get left behind. Larger pups (think German Shepherds, Labradors) are welcome aboard for a small fee – the same price as a regular rider. However, unlike their smaller counterparts, big pups gotta hoof it on the floor (no hogging those comfy seats, Rover!). Just be sure to keep them leashed and make sure they're cool with the sights, sounds, and smells of a moving bus full of people.
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| Can Dogs Ride The Bus In Seattle |
Important Canine Conduct
QuickTip: Focus more on the ‘how’ than the ‘what’.
- Etiquette is Everything: A happy, well-behaved doggo is a welcome bus rider. Make sure your pup is comfortable and won't bark, whine, or try to make friends with everyone on board (not everyone appreciates a wet snout hello).
- Cleanliness is Key: Accidents happen, but do your best to avoid them! Make sure your dog has recently relieved itself before boarding, and bring along some poop bags – nobody wants doggy doo-duty on the bus!
- Respect Your Fellow Passengers: Some folks might be nervous around dogs, so be courteous and keep your pup close. If anyone seems uncomfortable, offer to move to a less crowded area.
How to Make Your Dog a Bus Pro
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- Desensitization is Your Friend: Get your pup used to the sights and sounds of a bus by taking them to a quiet bus stop when there aren't many people around. Reward calm behavior with treats.
- Practice Makes Perfect: Take short bus rides at first to get your dog acclimated. Gradually increase the length of the rides as your dog gets comfortable.
- Pack Smart: Bring along water, treats, and a favorite toy to keep your pup occupied on the ride.
QuickTip: Let each idea sink in before moving on.
FAQs for the Fuzzy Frequent Rider
How to board the bus with a dog?
- Let the bus driver know you have a dog and enter through the back door if possible.
How to pay the fare for a large dog?
QuickTip: Stop to think as you go.
- You can pay the dog's fare with the same method you use for your own fare (cash, ORCA card, etc.).
How to make sure my service dog is allowed on the bus?
- Service animals are always welcome and ride for free. Just be sure they are properly harnessed and trained.
How to clean up after my dog if they have an accident on the bus?
- Ugh, accidents happen! Be a responsible pet owner and immediately clean it up with your handy dandy poop bags.
How to find out more about King County Metro pet policies?
- Visit the King County Metro website for the full scoop on furry friends on public transportation
https://kingcounty.gov/en/dept/metro
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