Hong Kong’s MTR Corp, KMB considering allowing commuters to bring pets on board

Hong Kong’s MTR Corporation and franchised bus firm KMB are considering allowing passengers to bring small animals on public transport in a bid to cater to pet owners, the Post has learned.

Sources said the rail giant and bus firm were both mulling the move, with the MTR Corp to make a decision in the first half of this year. The companies were expected to limit the size of pets allowed, they added.

An insider said the MTR Corp planned to conduct a trial run on weekends to gauge public sentiment, with the service then being extended to non-peak hours during weekdays.

“The MTR Corp needs to balance the extent of public acceptance and the travel needs of pet owners,” the insider said.

“The size of the pets allowed on board should be small and carried in a carriage or a bag so they can be kept at a safe distance from other passengers to avoid causing any nuisance.”

A second source said the rail firm could also designate one compartment on each train for pets.