No car, no problem: Tips on commuting around the metro with your fur baby
So you're off to the mall with your fur baby and you don't have your own ride. You turn to a ride-hailing service instead but keep getting turned down by drivers because you're carrying a pooch or a cat. Indeed, it can be a hassle to bring pets out of the house if you don't have a car, but that shouldn't stop you from bringing them out every now and then.
All it takes is a bit of preparation and a lot of patience to make your day out with your pet a more enjoyable one. Here are some tips to keep in mind when you're commuting with a beloved fur baby.
Invest in a carrier
In 2019, there was GrabPet, allowing passengers to bring along their furry friends with them but the service has been unavailable since the pandemic. Now, the ride-sharing app still allows pets but you should always note it before booking or ask the driver beforehand. The same goes for cabs, too. Always ask the driver first if it's okay to have a pet in the vehicle (some of them might be allergic).
When you have your ride, keep your pooch/cat in a carrier so they won't be leaving behind fur or drool on the car seats. Aside from the hard crates, there are other more portable carriers you can buy: there are foldable ones that look like bags, which are perfect for carrying your other pet essentials.
In other PUVs like jeeps, the MRT-3, buses, and UV Express shuttles, pets should also be in carriers—bags or crates. For MRT-3 riders, the crate size should not be more than two by two feet.
It bears noting, too, that your fur baby will be counted as another passenger in the vehicle. Also, keep in mind that most vehicles only allow small to medium-sized dogs.
Don't forget the diapers
Like in malls, your fur baby should wear a diaper whenever you commute with them in case of any accidents and maintain the cleanliness and sanitation of the car or PUV.
In addition, keep in mind that your pooch/cat will be riding with other passengers so it's best to give them a bath or spray some pet cologne on them to keep them smelling clean.
You should also carry other essentials like an extra diaper, water, and food so your fur baby won't get too tired from your day out.
Try looking for other pet taxis online
If your dog is too big to ride PUVs or Grab, you can try renting a car with a driver instead. There's an app called PetBacker offering several services from pet boarding, sitting, grooming, walking, training, to transport.
Under the Taxi services, you can broadcast a request for a ride for your pets or book one of the backers there. You'll see reviews, how many times they've been booked, and photos on their profiles to check them out before booking. Most of these users are also pet lovers so you know your fur babies will be in good care!