PKP Intercity train dog death sparks animal‑transport safety concerns

On 28 June, an eight‑year‑old bulldog died aboard a PKP Intercity train traveling from Warsaw to Berlin after about 40 minutes in an overheated carriage, with temperatures reportedly above 40 °C. Passengers, including a nurse and a veterinary technician, attempted resuscitation, but the animal collapsed and died before the owner could alight at Świebodzin.

Polish writer Jakub Żulczyk shared the incident on Facebook, describing the heat and the distressing scene, which sparked public debate on the conditions for transporting pets during heatwaves. PKP Intercity acknowledged the event, expressed condolences to the owner, and stated there was no evidence to link the death directly to the train journey. The carrier noted that in the previous year it transported 433 000 animals and urged passengers to ensure adequate water and comfort for their pets in extreme temperatures.