Well behaved pet dogs are set to be allowed on board trams in the West Midlands for the first time as part of a trial this summer.
Until now, only assistance dogs were permitted by the Metro’s ‘Conditions of Carriage’ although this has recently changed to include pets in secure carriers after feedback from customers.
Anthony Stanley, Head of Quality Health Safety and Environment at West Midlands Metro explained: “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.”
As part of the pilot scheme, only one dog on a lead will be allowed on the tram per fare-paying customer, and owners will be liable for their behaviour, including keeping them off the seats and cleaning up any mess they make.
Feedback on the trial will be provided using a form on the West Midlands Metro website and through social media channels, with an option for customers to write in with their feedback as well. Information on the scheme will be published at tram stops across the network and onboard the tram.
“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,” Anthony said.
