The pilot project for buses is expected to be implemented by the end of 2026, essentially following the same rules as those applied in the subway: restricted authorization hours, a limit of one dog per user, the obligation to keep the animal on a leash, and to put a muzzle on it.

This initiative aims to meet the needs of the 21% of Montreal households that own a dog.

Sylvain Ouellet, councillor for the City of Montreal in the Villeray–Saint-Michel–Parc-Extension borough and member of the STM board of directors, specified that the pilot project will not start before the end of 2026 in order to consult with users.

The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) of Montreal, which launched the campaign "Fido wants to take the bus,” welcomed this motion.

According to Sophie Gaillard, director of animal advocacy and legal and government affairs at the SPCA of Montreal, this authorization will facilitate access to veterinary care, promote exercise and socialization of dogs, and contribute to public safety by reducing the risks of behavioral problems.

Furthermore, this measure will promote social justice by allowing more vulnerable individuals to travel with their dogs and will support the City’s ecological goals by reducing the use of cars.

By adopting this motion, the City of Montreal demonstrates its commitment to more sustainable and inclusive mobility while responding to the needs of its dog-owning residents.