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Dogs on trains? Open question Metra chair says

The idea of allowing pets on trains is giving Metra officials pause.

Metra's initial plan was to start a test project on its Rock Island Line limited to small pets in carriers to be kept on the owner's lap or under the seat.

The issue was on Friday's board agenda but directors pulled it after opposition from commuters.

"I think the question on pets is open," said Chairman Martin Oberman, who called himself a "proud dog lover" and former Irish wolfhound owner.

"A number of people raised concerns ... we all would like a little more information on how this has worked on other commuter railroads."

Riders' comments ranged from "I just don't want it," to people with animal allergies, Oberman said Friday.

The impetus for the pet policy came from a petition drive by animal lover Rena Church of Aurora. "Welcoming pets on Metra will not only be good for riders and pets but will encourage the use of Metra, which is good for the environment," Church advocated in her online petition.

Metra's citizens' advisory board agreed to a trial period at a January meeting but the agency included some caveats.

Those included not allowing pets who were "disruptive to other passengers due to factors such as noise, smell or aggressive behavior." Oberman said he realized numerous people had signed the petition, but both sides had to be considered.

"As with many issues, it seems simple but when you start to think about it - it gets more complicated," he noted. "There's no reason to rush into it."

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