Dogs and bikes allowed on REM trains until July 4

Cyclists can now bring their bikes on REM trains until July 4, 2025. (Graham Hughes/The Canadian Press)

The REM light rail line is extending its pilot project to allow riders with dogs and bikes onto trains.

Until July 4, dogs with leashes are allowed on the REM at all times, as opposed to last year, which prohibited them during rush hours.

After July 4, the REM will be closed until Aug. 17, and riders must take shuttle buses. Only service dogs are allowed on the shuttle buses, and cyclists cannot bring their bikes aboard.

Starting Aug. 18, dogs and bikes will again be permitted on trains except during rush hours:

• Monday to Friday between 7 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. and between 3:30 p.m. and 6 p.m.

Rules for dogs

Dogs must wear muzzles and be kept firmly on a leash that is a maximum of 49 inches in length.

Only one dog per passenger is allowed, and dogs may not occupy car seats or benches on station platforms.

Those getting on at the Du Quartier and Gare Centrale stations should enquire whether the building owners allow dogs, as they do not belong to the Réseau express métropolitain.

Rules for bikes

Riders with bikes must be at least 14 years old or accompanied by an adult, and only two bikes are permitted per REM car.

Other passengers must be allowed to exit and enter first, and those with a bike must hold it securely.

Never lean bikes against the car, seat, door or any other REM equipment.

Bikes can only be parked and locked up at the racks provided at the stations, and they are not permitted at the racks after REM operating hours.