SEATTLE — For the first time, Washington State Ferries is letting dogs inside passenger cabins as part of a six-month trial.

The change, which began last week, will run through February 2026.

Under the new rules, dogs on leashes can ride in most passenger areas, except food galleys. Large dogs must stay on the floor, while small dogs can sit on a lap or in a carrier. Owners are responsible for controlling their pets and cleaning up after them. Ferry crews may ask owners to move animals to a vehicle or outside deck if safety or behavior becomes an issue.

Passengers with pets will be allowed to board from inside the passenger terminal areas where overhead loading is in place at Bainbridge Island, Bremerton, Edmonds, Kingston and Seattle. Passengers will be able to board on the car deck

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