【Kaohsiung News】
Taking your dog on a bus outing is no longer just a dream. Starting May 1, the Kaohsiung City Government will launch a trial “Weekend Dog-Friendly Bus” service. During the trial period, Route 52A operated by Great City Life Bus will provide 22 trips on weekends and holidays, allowing dogs to board without carriers as long as they are leashed, making it easier for owners and their dogs to go out for walks and enjoy the sunshine.
Transportation Bureau Director-General Chang, Shu-Chuan stated that in the past, owners of medium and large dogs often found it difficult to take their dogs on buses due to size restrictions. For this trial service, Route 52A was specially selected because it passes Jhongjheng Dog Park. Dedicated “dog-friendly trips” will be provided on holidays. Owners only need to keep their dogs properly leashed to ride the bus together, making it easier for pets to go outdoors while helping Kaohsiung take another step toward becoming an animal-friendly city.
The Kaohsiung City Animal Protection Office also reminded the public that anyone leading a dog on the ground is deemed the dog’s owner. To maintain bus safety and protect the rights of other passengers, owners must comply with riding rules, including: one dog on the ground per person, bringing their own cleaning supplies, not allowing dogs to occupy seats, and refraining from feeding dogs on board. Owners should also pay attention to their dogs’ emotional condition and safety at all times and comfort them when necessary, so that all passengers can enjoy a comfortable ride.
【Trial Route and Service Information】 The dog-friendly bus will provide 22 round-trip services per day on holidays, including Saturdays, Sundays, and national holidays:
Route 52A departures from MRT Weiwuying Station: 06:00, 07:15, 08:55, 11:00, 13:05, 14:45, 15:10, 16:40, 19:30, 20:50, 22:00
Route 52A departures from Kaohsiung Main Station: 06:20, 07:40, 09:20, 11:25, 13:30, 15:10, 15:35, 17:05, 19:55, 21:15, 22:25
The Transportation Bureau stated that relevant drivers have completed pet emergency response training. Dog-friendly trips will also display the words “Dog-Friendly Bus” on the vehicle for easy identification. Apart from the trial trips, regular buses will continue to require pets to be placed in carriers. The Bureau also hopes residents will show more understanding and patience toward furry passengers during the trial period, and encourages pet owners to jointly maintain a high-quality riding environment. Relevant service information is available on the official website of the Transportation Bureau, Kaohsiung City Government, or through the Kaohsiung i-Bus App.
