For central Boston residents, getting places without owning a car is fairly easy. Add a 50-pound dog to the trip, and you need a bit more planning. But, there are ways you can take your pet to an appointment, for a visit across town, or a weekend away.
Walking is a favorite activity for most neighbors with dogs. You can solve your most common dog transport issues by choosing a veterinarian and groomer within walking distance.
With 24-hour notice, Fetch Four-Legged Limo will take your pet (with or without you) to appointments, play dates, or to the airport. When you have to travel, they can see that your dog gets to a boarding facility and back. 
Fetch owner, Terry Riccio, can even stand in for you at veterinary appointments. “If the owner can’t go, I’ll take the dog to the vet, and I’ll have the vet call the owner and tell them what’s going on with their pet,” Riccio said.
If you want to drive, most car rental companies don’t have restrictions on pets and are another option. However, these companies have hefty cleaning fees if they have to remove a lot of dog hair, and they will charge you if your pet damages the car.
Zipcar members can take their critters with them in the company’s cars if they follow the rules. “We do allow pets in our Zipcars as long as they are in a pet carrier,” said Dan Curtin, vice-president for the Boston region. “As a courtesy to the next member, we also ask that our members clean up after their pet should there be any pet hair left behind.”
A crate for a large dog can take up a lot of space. Fortunately, the Zipcar fleet includes models that are perfect for big dog transport. Curtin recommends a Honda Element for a large dog crate or an easy-to-load SUV for a smaller one.
For a car-free option, the MBTA welcomes pets aboard, outside of rush hours. However, transit drivers are allowed to use their discretion. A happy little puppy is more likely to pass muster than a snarling 80-pounder.
During rush hour you can only ride with service animals, certified therapy dogs, and pets in carriers. “The agreement [between the MBTA and the community] that was reached over a decade ago, did balance interests and created a good policy that allowed the T to meet its goals and allows pet owners in Boston to use public transportation with their pets,” said Kara Holmquist from the MSPCA.
Holmquist also had tips for those who travel with pets by taxi. She suggested letting the dispatcher know you will have a companion animal with you, so that you don’t run into problems with an individual driver. “Be aware that it is a privilege, and that you want to be a good, responsible pet owner so that the company continues to take people with pets.”
She recommended using a carrier or if you have a large animal, bringing your own blanket or towel to cover the seat. This will prevent shedded fur or muddy feet from soiling the cab seat and the clothing of the next passenger.
For a weekend getaway, Boston Harbor Cruises to Provincetown and Cape Air’s service to the Cape and Islands are pet-friendly. The other major local carriers, Amtrak and bus operator, Peter Pan/Bonanza accept only service animals.
Finally, for the ultimate in luxury, you can reserve a traditional limo or car service. Having a driver at your disposal to help with baggage and hold the doors allows you to relax and really enjoy the ride with your best buddy.
Article and Photos by Penny Cherubino
An edited version of this article ran in the Back Bay Sun and Beacon Hill Times
Resources and contact information:
Terry Riccio
617-480-6900
Fetch limo's website is www.fetchlimo.com or click here to go there
To learn more about the advocacy work of the MSPCA visit their website
WWW.MSPCA.org or click here to go directly to the advocacy page
For information on Zipcar go here
