Uber makes travelling extremely easy and economical, and most of us can’t imagine living without the service available now. But we can’t imagine living – or travelling – without our dogs either! This makes many Uber users wonder, can I take my dog with me on an Uber?
The short answer is service dogs are always allowed and non-service animals need to be approved by the designated driver. There are some exceptions, so let’s see how you can guarantee your dog a seat at the next Uber.
First, have the service dogs already been denied?
As required by law, guide dogs are allowed wherever their owners go, which means you can bring yours with you to any Uber without being denied. However, for your safety, you can contact your driver to ensure that there is room for you and your dog.
What is Uber’s company’s policy for dogs?
Uber has no rules that prohibit dogs from getting into the car with you. Its terms of service clearly state that any individual can bring a dog or cat with them and that the decisions will be left to the specific driver with whom you are linked.
This is good news for Fido!
Do I need to ask my driver for permission?
Certainly. Uber will not stop you from taking your dog into an Uber car, but it is important to note that drivers use their personal vehicles and the final decision is left to them. If a driver doesn’t want a dog without service in his car, he can deny travelling.
As such, it is a good idea to contact the Uber driver as soon as he is assigned to warn that you have a dog with you and ensure that he can also get into the car.
What are the best practises for putting my dog on an Uber?
We recommend contacting your driver in advance and asking for permission. You can inform them about the size of your dog, promise that they will behave well (only if they do so!) And confirm that there will be no dirt back.
Of course, you will need to proceed with an action if there is any mess made by your dog. Clean any drools, try to remove any hair that has remained inside and prevent your dog from chewing or scratching the inside of Uber. To be more respectful of Uber driver’s personal car, we recommend holding the dog in your lap or having him sit or stand on the ground instead of in the seats.
You should be aware that it is common for drivers to charge a cleaning fee if your dog drools excessively, goes to the bathroom on Uber, leaves excessive hair behind or causes damage to your car.
Can I guarantee my dog a seat on my Uber?
Many Uber drivers agree with your puppy accompanying the ride, but how can you secure a place for your dog? Remember, if you have a serving dog, you don’t have to worry, because they are always allowed!
However, if you have a dog that does not provide service, you can ensure that it is authorised. If you use UberX, you can choose the pet option in the puzzle customisation options. Marking this box will ensure that you are caught by an Uber driver who allows dogs in your cars so you don’t have problems.
Alternatively, you can use the Uber Pets feature, if available in your area, which automatically chooses an Uber pet car and driver for you. There is an additional fee of $3 to 5 per trip to use this feature, but it’s a small price to pay to avoid having to leave your dog behind.
Anything else I need to know?
There are just a few more things to keep in mind!
First, you will be limited to only one dog, so you can’t walk to your Uber with your canine collection and wait to be accepted.
Secondly, Ubers with multiple pilots usually do not allow dogs. Although a certain Uber driver may accept that his dog accompanies him, other Uber passengers may have allergies or not want to walk with a puppy.
Finally, there may be additional costs associated with taking your dog to an Uber. Uber Pets will add a nominal fee to your trip, but even if you do not use Uber Pets, a cleaning fee may be charged if the driver thinks he needs to clean the dog.
Packaging
We understand – you want the convenience of being driven by an Uber driver, but you never want to leave your puppy’s side. Uber has no policy against pets, but leaves the decision on whether your four-legged friend can accompany you to individual drivers. We recommend confirming with your driver that your dog can come, and always respect and make sure you don’t leave a mess behind.
You can secure a place for your puppy using Uber Pets or by choosing the pet-friendly option on UberX. Finally, remember that service dogs are always allowed and will never be denied.