Guide Dogs Policy for Taxis
It is illegal for taxi drivers to refuse guide dogs or charge extra for them, unless drivers have a medical exemption certificate. Guide dog owners have faced refusal before. Taxi drivers cannot refuse access to guide dogs. Some reasons taxis refuse dogs include allergies, fear, or cleanliness concerns. A taxi driver refused a blind woman with a guide dog, leaving her injured. Another driver did not wear a mask and insisted windows be closed despite coughing. Guide dogs and other assistance dogs have legal access rights under the Equality Act. Face covering noncompliance has drawn complaints against some drivers too. Educating drivers on guide dogs may help resolve issues over refusal.
Pet-Friendly Black Cabs and Uber in London
Do black cabs have to take dogs?
Black cabs are often pet-friendly, depending on if your driver is happy for your pet to be in their cab. Apps like Addison Lee allow you to order a pet-friendly car, making it easy to travel with your dog. If you’re trying to flag down a cab with your dog, the driver may not stop if they don’t want dogs. At a taxi rank, if a cab doesn’t want to carry your dog, it’s ok to ask others. Many black cabs will carry well-behaved dogs when approached politely, but they aren’t obliged to.
Can I take a dog on Uber in London?
Uber Pet guarantees room for pets, although fees may apply. Uber’s service animal policy allows service animals without cost. Most taxis allow service animals.
London Taxi Services
London’s iconic black cabs take both cash and card. The TX4 cab is purpose-built for London by the London Taxi Company. Although associated with black cabs, London taxis may feature advertising or complete paintwork.