Originally published 2017-09-28. Article reviewed on October 4, 2026. Original publication: 2017-09-28.
Escalators and moving walkways can trap paws, fur or equipment. Familiarity and confidence do not remove the mechanical risk.
Use a suitable elevator or other accessible route where available. If you cannot find one, ask staff for assistance rather than improvising a first ride.
Some guide-dog programs teach escalator use with specific procedures and individual supervision. Follow the guidance of your program or an appropriately experienced instructor for your dog and mobility needs.
The former generic instructions to lure a dog onto a moving escalator, feed during the ride and hop over the exit have been removed. A written tutorial cannot establish that this is safe for an unprepared team, and an accessible alternative is not guaranteed at every site.