What is Lyft Pet?

Last month in August 2024, Lyft announced the new feature Pet Rides–which allows riders to bring their pets on Lyft trips. By accepting a Lyft Pet request as a Lyft driver, you’re agreeing to allow the passenger's pet to join them in your vehicle.

Lyft Pet rides function just like standard Lyft rides, with the key difference being that a pet joins the rider for the trip. When you accept Lyft Pet rides as a Lyft driver, you'll receive a $4 bonus for every Lyft Pet ride you complete!

Currently, Lyft Pet is only available in select markets in the United States. 

Did you know that as a driver you can download the Solo app today to start tracking your earnings, seeing peak times to drive based on projected hourly rates, and more to help you streamline your rideshare journey?

What kinds of pets can ride in a Lyft Pet Ride?

Lyft allows riders to bring one cat or dog with them to ride in a Lyft Pet ride. 

At this time based on information released by Lyft, there is no option to add additional pets. Based on this information, Lyft Pet rides can only accommodate up to 4 passengers and 1 singular pet.

Are service animals allowed in a Lyft?

According to Lyft’s service animal policy, “Service animals are working animals, not pets.[...] Service animals are not required to wear a tag or vest or be registered. Riders with service animals do not need to display any kind of proof that their animal is a service animal. In other words, if a rider with a dog says it is a service animal, the driver should transport the rider.”

Lyft Pet rides are designed for riders traveling with pets, not service animals. Riders are required by Lyft to always transport service animals, regardless of any factors including those related to religious reasons, cultural reasons, or allergies.   

Lyft drivers should be aware that service animals do not need to wear a tag, be registered, or display proof that it is indeed a service animal. Riders are also not required to provide documentation to drivers.

How to turn on Lyft Pet?

In order to turn on Lyft Pet as a Lyft driver, you do not need to take any action.

‍Drivers are automatically opted in to Lyft Pet and can start accepting Lyft Pet rides to earn the additional $4 bonus on Lyft Pet rides.

How to turn off Lyft Pet?

If you do not want to accept Lyft Pet rides, you can opt out of Lyft Pet or adjust this preference by following the below steps: 

1. From the Lyft App select ‘Driving Preferences’ from the menu
2. Locate the ‘Ride Preferences’ section
3. Select ‘Pet rides’
4. Switch the toggle that appears to opt-in or opt-out of the ride preference

Drivers should be aware that they are required by law (and Lyft’s own service animal policy) to accommodate passengers with service animals even if they don’t request a Pet ride or if the driver has opted out of offering Lyft Pet rides. If a Lyft driver denies a ride to a rider with a service animal, the driver could risk permanent deactivation from the platform.

How should Lyft Drivers handle clean up if a pet makes a mess?

If a pet makes a mess during a Lyft Pet ride, drivers should handle the situation professionally and efficiently to maintain a positive customer experience. 

First, it’s important to remain calm and courteous, acknowledging that accidents can happen! Politely inform the rider of the situation and offer solutions if they can assist, such as helping to clean minor spills. Most importantly, drivers should have basic cleaning supplies, like paper towels, pet-friendly disinfectant, and trash bags, readily available in their vehicle to address small messes immediately.

As a driver, you should also inform the rider that a cleaning fee will be applied due to the pet accident. If the mess is significant, if repairs to the vehicle are needed, or if the vehicle requires professional cleaning, drivers should contact Lyft support to discuss further action. Make sure to document the incident with clear photos, as Lyft allows drivers to report damages and submit a claim for cleaning fees.

However, if there are more significant messes like urine, feces, or deep scratches drivers can request standard cleaning fees. These fees will be determined based on the severity of the damage. Drivers should reach out to Uber support in such cases. 

After addressing the mess, don’t forget to sanitize the vehicle thoroughly to ensure it's clean and safe for future passengers. 

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Final thoughts on driving with Lyft Pet

Driving with Lyft Pet can be a rewarding way to offer pet-friendly rides while earning a little extra money–a $4 bonus per completed ride means more income for you as a driver! 

By understanding Lyft’s policies on service animals, managing your ride preferences, and being prepared for potential pet-related messes, you can create a seamless and enjoyable experience for all passengers. 

Hopefully these tips and insights should help you feel more confident in accommodating rider’s furry friends on the road with Lyft Pet.

Don’t forget to utilize tools like the Solo app to track your earnings and optimize your driving schedule, ensuring success in your rideshare journey. Download the Solo app today to start your free trial!