The Brief

Washington State Ferries now allows leashed pets in indoor areas under a six-month pilot program.

The change follows positive passenger feedback and aligns with other transit agencies' policies.

Concerns include allergies and unruly pets; the trial runs until February 2026 for further evaluation.

SEATTLE, Wash. - Washington State Ferries is letting the dogs in. For the first time, leashed pets are now allowed in indoor passenger areas under a new six-month pilot program launched at the end of August. Your four-legged best friends can now sit next to you – on the floor – almost anywhere on board.

"It’s a change from our old policy, where dogs were restricted to the outer decks, the car deck, or vehicles," Callie Meleedy, a spokesperson for Washington State Ferries said. "

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