In recent years, China has seen sustained growth in pet ownership. According to the China Pet Industry White Paper 2025 (Consumption Report), the number of urban pets (dogs and cats) in China exceeded 120 million in 2024, marking a 2.1% increase from 2023, while the consumer market size grew by 7.5% to reach 300.2 billion yuan.

As the summer travel season approaches, and considering the rising number of pet-owning households, several airlines have introduced or upgraded their "pet-friendly travel" services to accommodate passengers traveling with their companions. Meanwhile, high-speed rail pet transport services have expanded their pilot program coverage.

With these upgraded pet-inclusive travel services, what new scenarios and experiences are emerging for transporting pets via public transportation?

What's New in the Upgraded 'Pets in Cabin' Service?

During the summer travel season, multiple airlines have recently upgraded their "Pets in Cabin" services to facilitate passenger travel with pets. At Beijing Daxing International Airport, our reporter observed significantly increased passenger flow at check-in counters, with daily passenger throughput now exceeding 150,000.

Through interviews with travelers, we learned that such in-cabin pet services require advance reservation by phone at least 6 hours before flight departure. Passengers must provide valid animal health certificates and vaccination documentation.

China Southern Airlines' 'Pets in Cabin' service has been operational for over three months. What are the key aspects of this recent service upgrade?

The upgrade primarily focuses on quantity limits and eligible pet categories. In terms of capacity, the number of pets allowed per flight has increased from 2 to 4. Regarding pet types, brachycephalic (short-nosed) cats and dogs are now permitted in the cabin. Additionally, China Southern has expanded service coverage to include 10 new domestic hub airports such as Shanghai Pudong, Shenyang and Wuhan, bringing the total number of pet-friendly routes to over 200.

Since Hainan Airlines pioneered its in-cabin pet service in 2018, multiple carriers including China Southern Airlines, China Eastern Airlines, and Juneyao Air have followed suit. Recently, several airlines have upgraded their pet cabin policies. For instance, effective July 1, China Eastern Airlines enhanced its "Pets in Cabin" program by adding 16 new pet-friendly routes, bringing its total to 17 specialized pet routes.

According to information obtained by our reporters from multiple airlines, to ensure optimal passenger comfort during flights, pets traveling in the cabin must undergo thorough grooming prior to transport. Throughout the journey, they are required to wear protective clothing, muzzle devices, and diaper pads, while remaining securely contained within their carrier bags at all times. Major hub airports like Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport have further enhanced the travel experience by introducing dedicated pet waiting lounges and other specialized facilities, significantly improving convenience for passengers traveling with their animal companions.

Pet Express on High-Speed Rail: Now Serving 8 Routes & 25 Stations

Launched as a pilot program on April 8 this year, the high-speed rail pet transport service expanded its trial scope on June 20, now covering 25 stations along 8 major routes including Beijing-Shanghai, Beijing-Guangzhou, Beijing-Harbin, and Shanghai-Kunming lines, with 38 EMU trains participating in the service. To promote the service, a 30% discount is currently offered on pet transport fees.

The requirements for pet transport remain unchanged from previous policies: Passengers may check in one domesticated cat or dog per trip, provided the animal is in good health, weighs under 15 kg, and has a shoulder height not exceeding 40 cm. The high-speed rail express pet service adheres to the "same departure and arrival as owner" principle.To address summer heat challenges, railway authorities will enhance disinfection of express cargo compartments and pet carriers, strengthen safety protocols throughout the entire transport process.

Pet-Exclusive Travel Routes Boom: Diverse Getaway Scenes Now Available

Beyond upgraded pet travel services, an increasing number of public venues are now becoming pet-friendly. This year, numerous tourist destinations have launched region-specific pet-exclusive travel programs by leveraging local characteristics. At Aranya West Port International Yacht Club, Qinhuangdao a special "Dog's Day Out" sailing event recently set sail, marking the debut of their pet-friendly nautical tourism offerings this summer that have attracted massive participation from pet lovers.

In addition to exclusive nautical programs, many hotels now offer pet-dedicated guest rooms and recreational activities. These specially designed pet-friendly accommodations feature professional deep-cleaning services and are staffed with dedicated pet butlers for personalized care.

Data shows that searches for keywords like "pet-friendly" and "pets allowed" on the platform have surged by over 200% year-on-year, while bookings for pet-welcoming hotels and homestays have doubled compared to the same period last year. Scenic spots offering pet services have also seen a 150%+ increase in ticket sales.

"Pet-Friendly" Calls for Collective Efforts: Civilized Harmony Between People and Pets

In recent years, pets have become cherished companions in many people's lives, with some even considering them family members. Starting this year, China Agricultural University has introduced a new major in "Animal Science (Companion Animals)." It is clear that as social attitudes shift toward harmonious coexistence between humans and pets, society as a whole must actively respond and work together. Authorities should improve regulations and optimize services, while pet owners must consciously follow rules and practice responsible pet etiquette. Only through joint efforts can we build a civilized society where humans and pets live in harmony.