Cat becomes 1st pet to complete high-speed train travel from Shanghai to Nanjing

Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station completed its first high-speed train pet transport order on April 10, following China Railway's recent launch of a pilot program allowing pets to travel on select high-speed trains.

The trial service, which was introduced on April 8 to cater to passengers traveling with their beloved furry companions, is currently operational along the Beijing-Shanghai High-Speed Railway, covering five major stations: Shanghai Hongqiao, Beijing South, Jinan West, Nanjing South, and Hangzhou East. Travelers interested in availing themselves of this service are required to make reservations at least two days prior to the train's departure time through the 12306 booking system, subsequent to purchasing their tickets.

The first order processed by Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station involved a traveler accompanied by her 3-year-old tabby cat, named Banbu, en route to Nanjing South Station. Banbu was securely housed in a specially designed container equipped with essential features such as an air circulation and oxygen supply system, noise reduction outer shell, and humidity sensors to ensure the utmost comfort and safety of the feline passenger.

To monitor the well-being of the pet traveler throughout the journey, a CCTV camera linked to a real-time monitoring platform enables the caretaker to oversee Banbu's health status remotely. While the caretaker provides water to the animal via a trough located under the container, feeding assistance is not offered during the entire trip. Additionally, stringent safety protocols dictate that the safety window on the container should only be opened in emergencies until the pet is safely reunited with its owner at the destination.

Chen Ren, manager of the China Railway Express Co Shanghai Hongqiao Station sales department, emphasized the meticulous care provided to pet travelers, saying, "Our trained caretaker will supervise the pet throughout the journey from the moment it enters the container. The window will remain closed until reaching the terminal station, except in emergency situations. In such cases, we will promptly contact the pet owner to arrange a meeting at the nearest major station and ensure the pet receives necessary care at a pet hospital."

To ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience for all passengers and their furry companions, specific criteria must be met for each pet traveler. Pets must be domesticated cats or dogs in good health, weighing no more than 15 kilograms and standing no taller than 40 centimeters at the shoulder. Essential documents, including a valid ID and a certificate of animal quarantine issued within five days, are mandatory for travel.

Xiao Huajun, manager of the China Railway Express Co Shanghai sales department, provided operational insights, saying, "Currently, each train can accommodate a maximum of three pets. We advise pet owners to visit the business department offices two to six hours before departure to check in their pets with our staff, ensuring a seamless and efficient travel process for their beloved companions."

Xia Miao contributed to this story.