If you don't have a car, getting around Chicago with a dog can be a challenge. Some bus and train lines allow small, well-mannered dogs in carriers on board. But large dogs are persona non grata on all city bus and train lines.

If all else fails, call a pet taxi (for a list of pet taxi services, go to urbanhound's services directory). Note: none of the restrictions below apply to service dogs, who, by law, are allowed just about everywhere.

Taxis and Limousines	Taxi and limo drivers aren't obliged to transport your dog but many will. The smaller your hound, the better your chances. The key is to be polite: ask the driver if he wouldn't mind; reassure him that your dog is clean, well-mannered and quiet. Tip well. For a small fee, most limousine companies will let you bring along your dog as long as you give notice when making a reservation.
CTA	Contact: 888-968-7282 www.transitchicago.com Officially, only service dogs are permitted on CTA buses and the El. If your dog is small enough to travel in a carrier and quiet enough not to attract attention, though, a sympathetic bus driver is likely to let you ride (and the El conductor probably won't notice).
Metra commuter rail	Contact: 312-322-6777 [M-F, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.]; 312-836-7000 [evenings and weekends] www.metrarail.com Only service dogs are allowed on Metra trains.
Pace suburban bus lines	Contact: 847-364-7223 www.pacebus.com Dogs small enough to fit in a carrier and be placed on a seat are allowed. If there are no empty seats, we doubt you'll be tossed off if you hold the carrier in your lap or place it on the floor between your feet.
South Shore Line	Contact: 800-356-2079 www.nictd.com Dogs in carriers are permitted, but they can't take up a seat.
Amtrak	Contact: 800-872-7245 www.amtrak.com The rule is simple: no dogs, ever (with the exception of service dogs, of course).
Greyhound	Contact: 800-231-2222 www.greyhound.com Don't let the name fool you—Greyhound forbids all dogs, except service dogs.
Zipcar	Contact: 866-494-7227 www.zipcar.com Zipcar has modified its original draconian "no dogs in the car" policy. Dogs in carriers or kennels are allowed.