A three month trial allowing dogs to travel on board the West Midlands Metro (with owners!) is to start from 15th August after feedback from customers. Previously only assistance dogs were allowed to travel (although this has recently been extended to include dogs in secure carriers) but now for a trial period dogs will be allowed on the trams.
As part of the pilot, one dog on a lead will be allowed on the trams per fare paying passenger. Owners will be liable for their behaviour, including keeping them off seats and cleaning up any mess they make.
Anthony Stanley, Head of Quality Health and Safety and Environment at West Midlands Metro said: “We have had enquiries from customers about travelling with their pets on the tram, and we felt the time was right to try it out and give the travelling public the chance to have their say. The trial will run for three months starting on August 15, during which time customers will be able to provide feedback on their experience of travelling with their dogs, or how dogs being allowed to travel on the tram has impacted their journey. We’re confident the move will be widely welcomed by a majority of customers, and we’re eager to hear the views of anyone who uses the tram between now and the end of the trial.”
Feedback can be provided by filling in a form on the West Midlands Metro website and through social media channels. There will also be an option for customers to write in with their feedback.