Reliable Pet Taxi Service in Western Massachusetts ~

What is a Pet Taxi?

A simple Google search for “pet taxi” can seem straightforward, but the term can mean a few different things. Are you looking for a carrier for your dog or cat? Are you wondering if there is a pet-friendly taxi service in your area? How about a taxi or chauffeur just for your pet?

Many people who land on the PetBlue Travel Taxi page on our website are looking for a way to transport their pet locally. It makes sense, as oftentimes pets aren’t welcome on public transportation and Uber or Lyft drivers might not always allow dogs or cats in their vehicles.

How does a pet taxi work?

Along with the rise of Uber and other rideshare options, there’s a new option for pet owners in transporting their animals – pet taxi services. Pet taxis are pet-only rides to and often from a single destination.

How it works depends on the pet taxi service you use. At PetBlue Travel you can schedule a ride for your pet directly by calling our main number at 413-320-8737 as stated in our "How to Book" section, 

We REQUIRE an introductory call or video meet-&-greet so we can meet your pet and review any special needs. This gives you - the client - the availability of our pet taxi service as well as a chance to ask questions. 

The driver will pick up your pet before the appointment, and if requested, will arrive early to spend some time getting to know your dog or cat before the ride. The driver will then ensure your pet is safely secured in the vehicle through a checklist of safety features for all PetBlue Travel Pet Taxi rides.

When arriving at your pet’s destination, the driver will notify you that your pet is checked in with the appropriate people. You’ll also receive a photo of your pet at their destination.

What you should know about hiring a pet taxi

When it comes to a pet taxi, there are a few different options in most U.S. cities. Sometimes, a vet or groomer will offer a ride service directly. These can be really handy if you want to save yourself time but still ensure your pet gets to a necessary appointment.

Other times, there might be a local person offering to drive pets within a certain distance.

Whether you’re using a specialized pet taxi service such as PetBlue Travel Pet Taxi or a ride from a pet services business, here’s what you should consider before booking a ride:
What equipment will they use to keep my pet safe?

There are no regulations in terms of the kind of equipment pet taxi drivers are required to use to keep pets safe. In fact, only a handful of states have any laws requiring pets to be harnessed in a vehicle – whether driving with their owner or someone else!

If you expect your pet to be safely secured when someone else is driving them – which we recommend! – then you may need to ask probing questions when booking the ride.

At PetBlue Travel, safety is our top priority. Dogs always wear a harness and are securely attached to a seatbelt. Cats and smaller dogs always ride in carriers to ensure the safest ride possible. There are exceptions however. If the client (owner of the pet) is riding along, the client has the option of holding the pet in their laps ***  (exclusions apply) Keep in mind the driver has final say if this is an option upon pickup and/or drop off.

Is the driver experienced enough to drive my pet?

It’s always important to ask who will be driving your pet when booking a pet taxi service. Just like how there are hardly any legal requirements to driving a pet, there are no driver requirements to transport other people’s pets.

While not legally obligated, all drivers with PetBlue Travel undergo certification from the USDA, in addition to other training. This ensures they are as knowledgeable as possible while on the road with your pet.

Our drivers are also trained to handle many temperaments. If a driver deems an animal is a danger to his or her safety, or is showing aggressive behavior, they reserve the right to cancel the ride.

 How much will it cost?

The cost of a pet taxi can vary depending on the type of service you’ve requested, the length of the trip and other factors. For reputable pet transportation companies, quoting a price should not be an issue.

Many pet owners also often add on a tip for their driver if they feel their pet has been taken care of.

At PetBlue Travel, ride fares are based on mileage. See our section below "Private Local Pet Taxi Services" for more information.