Many dog owners do not know that you can ride most buses with your four-footed buddy. I’ve done some research about busing with dogs on the various transit agencies in the greater Seattle area and thought I should share this knowledge with everyone. With high gas prices, this might help others leave their cars at home for shorter trips.

Metro:
Metro’s official policy allows dogs on buses as long as they are leashed or in a kennel. Dogs too big to ride on your lap require the same fare as a human traveler. My dog is 42lbs and while he fits on my lap, I usually pay his fare unless the driver waves me off. Dogs may not ride on a seat but sit on the floor. (Source ^[1])

Sound Transit:
Only service animals and small pets in containers are allowed on Sound Transit’s buses and the Sounder. (Source ^[2])

Community Transit:
This took some work on my part to get a clear answer. Dogs are not allowed on commuter buses (ie: Seattle to Mukilteo rush hour routes, for example), but are allowed on short inter-city trips (ie: Lynnwood to Mukilteo for example) with leash and muzzle. I found a soft mesh muzzle at Mud Bay ^[3] for $15 that allows my dog to pant and drink. At this time, I am unclear if a fare is required and will assume that one is. (Source: phone call to CT’s customer service line.)

Pierce Transit:
Only service animals and small pets in containers are allowed. (Source ^[4])

I’ve heard of bus drivers refusing dogs access on buses for a variety of reasons. Some Metro drivers state that dogs require muzzles (not true) or that there is already a dog on the bus and they are not allowed to pick up multiple dogs (also not true). If you run into an issue with a driver not allowing you to board the bus with a dog and you are following the rules and regulations of the specific transit service, request that the driver call their supervisor or contact the service directly with the route number, bus number, time and location that this incident occurred.

For a treat, Metro bus routes 74 ^[5] and 75 ^[6] will take you to Magnuson’s off-leash dog park, located in Sand Point. It is a reliable route, and the park has water access for the pups.

Edit to add a few more details.
Washington State Ferry System:
Pets must be on a leash or in a carrier at all times. Pets, except service animals, are not allowed in terminal buildings or above the car decks, unless they are in a pet carrier. (Source ^[7])

Island Transit (Whidbey Island):
Only service animals and small pets in containers are allowed. (Source ^[8])