Need to take your dog to the vet, Leeds railway station, a family member’s home, or somewhere further afield? A taxi can be one of the easiest ways to travel when walking or public transport is not practical.
But can you simply turn up your dog?
In many cases, dogs can travel in taxis in Leeds, but arrangements for ordinary pets can vary between operators, drivers and vehicles. Telling the taxi company about your dog when you book is therefore the safest approach.
This guide explains what to expect, possible charges, how to prepare your dog and the different rules that apply to assistance dogs.
Can Dogs Travel in Taxis in Leeds?
Yes, you may be able to take a pet dog in a taxi or private hire vehicle in Leeds, but you should check before travelling.
For an ordinary pet dog, the operator may need to find a driver and vehicle suitable for carrying animals. Factors such as your dog’s size, available space and whether you have a carrier can make a difference.
Assistance dogs are different. Leeds City Council states that taxi and private hire drivers have a duty under the Equality Act 2010 to carry guide and other assistance dogs without an additional charge, unless the driver has an official medical exemption.
So, if you are traveling with a pet rather than an assistance dog, it is always better to mention this when making the booking.
Should You Tell the Taxi Company You Have a Dog?
Yes. Tell the taxi operator that you are traveling with a dog before the vehicle is dispatched.
Don't assume every available taxi will be able to carry a pet. Giving advance notice allows the operator to look for an appropriate vehicle and driver and can prevent problems when your taxi arrives.
When booking, it can be useful to mention:
- that you are travelling with a dog
- your dog’s approximate size
- whether the dog will be in a carrier
- whether you have additional luggage
- whether the dog is an assistance dog
For example, a passenger travelling with a large dog, luggage and a pet carrier may require more vehicle space than someone travelling locally with a small dog.
Do Leeds Taxis Charge Extra for Dogs?
It depends on the type of vehicle you use. Leeds City Council’s current Hackney Carriage fare information lists an additional £2 charge for carrying an animal, excluding registered assistance animals. The council also states that it does not control private hire charges, as these are calculated by the individual private hire operator.
This means the price arrangements for a black-and-white Hackney Carriage and a pre-booked private hire vehicle may not necessarily be the same.
If you are traveling with an ordinary pet, ask about any additional charge when booking. ssistance of dogs must be carried without an additional charge, subject to the applicable legal requirements.
How to Prepare Your Dog for a Taxi Journey
A little preparation can make the journey easier for your dog, your driver and you.
Before the taxi arrives:
- Give your dog a short walk if possible.
- Keep your dog on a suitable lead or harness.
- Consider a secure carrier for smaller dogs.
- Bring a towel or blanket to protect the vehicle's interior.
- Carry some water if you are travelling a longer distance.
The towel can be particularly useful after a rainy Leeds walk or a muddy trip to the park.
During the journey, keep your dog calm and under control. Do not allow your pet to interfere with or distract the driver and follow any reasonable instructions about where your dog should travel in the vehicle.
Taking these simple steps can make pet-friendly taxi travel much easier for everyone.
What If Your Dog Is Nervous About Cars?
Not every dog enjoys traveling by car, particularly if taxi journeys are unfamiliar.
If your dog becomes anxious in vehicles, consider bringing a familiar blanket or carrier that helps them feel more comfortable. Keeping them safely secured and close to you may also make the journey less stressful.
Give yourself plenty of time rather than making the journey feel rushed, and let the taxi operator know in advance if there is anything they should be aware of.
If your dog regularly experiences travel sickness, avoid making sudden changes to its normal routine and seek appropriate veterinary advice where necessary.
Taking Your Dog to Common Leeds Destinations by Taxi
There are plenty of situations where travelling by taxi with your dog can be useful.
You might need transport for:
- a veterinary appointment
- Leeds railway station
- a dog groomer
- kennels or boarding facilities
- a park or walking area
- visiting friends or family
- the first part of a longer journey
Think about everything you will be carrying as well as the dog itself.
A trip to the railway station with a large dog, suitcase and carrier, for example, may need a different vehicle from a short journey to the vet.
Giving these details when booking makes it easier to arrange a suitable taxi.
What Are the Rules for Assistance Dogs in Leeds Taxis?
Assistance dogs have specific legal protections that do not apply in the same way to ordinary pets.
Leeds City Council states that taxi and private hire drivers must carry guide and other assistance dogs at no extra cost. A driver who cannot carry assistance dogs for medical reasons must have a certificate of exemption issued by the local authority.
GOV.UK also explains that assistance dogs must be allowed to travel with their passenger unless the driver has the relevant exemption. Where an exemption applies, a notice should be displayed on the vehicle.
Leeds private hire conditions additionally require drivers to ensure that an assistance dog is safely accommodated within the vehicle.
What If a Taxi Driver Cannot Take Your Pet?
If you are travelling with an ordinary pet and a particular driver or vehicle cannot accommodate it, contact the taxi operator and ask whether another suitable vehicle is available.
This is another reason why mentioning your dog at the booking stage is useful.
The situation is different with an assistance dog because specific legal duties apply. Leeds City Council identifies failure to carry an assistance dog without displaying a medical exemption, or charging extra for carrying one, as matters its licensing team can investigate.
Booking a Dog-Friendly Taxi in Leeds
If you are booking with Leeds Cab, tell us that you will be travelling with a dog when making your booking so that your requirements can be considered when arranging the journey.
It helps to provide your:
- pickup location
- destination
- approximate dog size
- carrier requirements, if applicable
- luggage requirements
- preferred pickup time
Providing these details early can make arranging your journey much simpler.
Need to travel somewhere in Leeds with your dog? Book your Leeds taxi in advance and mention your pet when booking.
FAQs
Ordinary pet dogs and assistance dogs are treated differently. For a pet, check with the operator when booking so they can determine whether an appropriate driver and vehicle are available. Assistance dogs have additional legal protections.
Not necessarily. However, a suitable carrier can be helpful for smaller dogs and may make the journey safer and more comfortable. Tell the operator if you plan to use one.
Leeds City Council currently lists a £2 animal charge for Hackney Carriages, excluding registered assistance animals. Private hire fares are set by individual operators, so check the price when booking.
Yes. Taxi and private hire drivers are required to carry assistance to dogs without imposing an additional charge, unless an applicable medical exemption allows the driver not to carry the dog.
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