Service Dogs on Public Transport: My Experience

Your Guide to Public Transit

Over 90% of Americans own cars, but barely 60% of citizens with disabilities drive. For many of us, public transportation becomes a lifeline—whether it’s for accessibility, financial reasons, or personal choice.

On a college campus, owning a car just isn’t practical for me. Campus is sprawling, and while it’s technically walkable, it’s not realistic for me to safely and regularly traverse it. That’s where the campus bus system comes in—but using public transportation with a service dog comes with its own unique challenges.

Crowded buses, varying attitudes from drivers, and tight spaces are all part of my daily experience. On campus, the buses are often packed, especially during peak class times, so I’ve had to develop strategies to keep Max safe, calm, and out of the way.

In this post, we’ll explore some general etiquette and helpful tips for navigating public transportation with a service dog, focusing on buses and rideshares like Uber.

Bus Travel

When it comes to riding the bus with a service dog, preparation is key. Here’s what works for me:

Commands and Placement

One of the most important commands I’ve worked on with Max is “tuck.” This is a versatile command I use in crowded spaces like food halls, elevators, and buses. It tells Max to stay as close to me as possible while keeping a safe distance from others.

On campus buses, I aim to sit in the accessibility seating area when available. Max tucks himself neatly under the bench, completely out of the way of clomping feet and other passengers.

Staying Vigilant

Crowded buses require constant awareness. Many campus buses are standing-room only, which means I have to be extra mindful to ensure no one accidentally steps on Max or tries to interact with him. While most people are respectful, there’s always the occasional person who doesn’t notice him or doesn’t care that he’s working.

Dealing with Drivers

Bus drivers can really be hit or miss. I’ve had drivers who are incredibly kind, ensuring I have a seat and giving me time to situate Max. But I’ve also encountered drivers who seemed indifferent or dismissive.

It’s crucial to know your rights and to feel confident in your service dog’s training, especially if a driver questions or challenges you.

Training for Bus Confidence

Not all dogs are naturally comfortable on buses, especially crowded ones. Socializing your service dog to these environments takes time and patience. I recommend starting with less busy times to help your dog acclimate to the sights, sounds, and movements of the bus.

Practice commands like “tuck” and reward your dog for staying calm and relaxed. Repetition is key to building their confidence.

Top Tips for the Bus

1. Plan the ideal location for you and your dog before sitting.

2. Use commands like “tuck” to keep your dog safely out of the way.

3. Stay calm and focused, even in chaotic environments.

4. Advocate for your needs as necessary but always remain polite and professional.

Uber Travel

Riding in a rideshare with a service dog can be a smoother experience, but it still requires preparation and etiquette. Since I primarily use Uber, I’ll share my experiences with it!

Uber Policies

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have clear policies requiring drivers to accommodate service dogs. That said, I often book a pet-friendly ride anyway, even though it costs a bit more. It’s not required, but it helps avoid potential conflicts or misunderstandings.

You can view Uber’s service animal policy here and Lyft’s here. For other rideshare services, a quick Google search of their name and “service animal policy” should give you the answers you need.

My Rules for Max in Ubers

When we’re in any car, Max follows a few simple rules that I believe are good etiquette:

• No climbing onto the seats.

• Find a comfortable position on the floor and stay there for the duration of the ride.

• Wait in the car until I give the signal to exit.

Tips for Uber Travel

1. Communicate with the driver before pickup to avoid surprises.

2. Keep your dog calm and under control throughout the ride.

3. Always leave the vehicle clean and tidy.

Final Thoughts

Public transportation can feel intimidating at first, but with preparation and patience, you and your service dog can navigate it confidently. Whether you’re riding a crowded campus bus or catching an Uber, remember that your service dog is there to help you—and you’re their advocate.

If you’ve had unique experiences or tips for traveling with a service dog, I’d love to hear them!

photo credit: Спиридон Варфаламеев on pexels