Uber has officially launched a new service that allows passengers to book journeys with their pets alongside them. Becoming available for the first time on Tuesday (April 26), fares for Uber Pet journeys will feature a surcharge of £3.20 in London while fares in the rest of the country will include a £2 surcharge.
Previously, it was up to the drivers' discretion whether they allowed passengers to travel with an animal in their vehicle.
However, customers will now be matched with drivers who are eligible and willing to transport people who are accompanied by their pets. Those travelling with a service animal can continue to use the regular Uber option, the company has confirmed.
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Andrew Brem, general manager at Uber UK, said: “We’re really happy to be launching Uber Pet in the UK, bringing even more convenient travel options to our riders.
“With Covid-19 restrictions lifted, it’s the perfect time for new pets to get out and about again with you, no matter what your plans.”
The company has also announced it will donate £1 from every Uber Pet fare to the All Dogs Matter charity which works "in and around London to transform the lives of unwanted and abandoned dogs".