I wrote to Amtrak because I know that animals have been on trains before
(don't they ship race horses to Florida for the winter via trains?) and
wondered if they could go via baggage.  Are there any other major trains
that might be used?
 
Anyway, here was my reply:
 
>From: "Amtrak Customer Service - 1077" <[log in to unmask]>
>To: <[log in to unmask]>
>Subject: Re: pet travel
>Date: Thu, 5 Aug 1999 12:02:01 -0700
>
>Thank you for your interest in Amtrak
>
>We appreciate your contacting us regarding our pet policy.  While we
>certainly understand your wish to bring your pet on board Amtrak, we
>are not able to accommodate animals other than assistance animals for
>people with disabilities.
>
>The reason is because the U.S. Department of Agriculture instituted
>regulations under the Federal Animal Welfare Act, which included
>specific environmental requirements for both baggage cars and train
>stations used in the transportation of animals.  Compliance with these
>regulations would entail equipping all of our baggage cars with climate
>controls and 300 stations with separate enclosed shelters for animals.
>We simply do not have the funds to do that at this time.
>
>Once again, thank you for comments us about this issue.  Amtrak depends
>upon comments from our customers to improve service.  We have noted your
>position, and should regulations become more favorable, Amtrak will
>certainly review its current policies.  In the meanwhile, we hope to be
>able to serve you aboard Amtrak.
>
>Sincerely,
>
>Customer Service Center
*****
 
Mary
 
Mary McCarty-Houser
Pennsylvania Ferret Rescue Association
Director, Centre County Branch
http://www.ferretrescue.com
[Posted in FML issue 2764]