When a Horse Makes the Commute Look Like a Circus Act
Picture this: a young man, a cheerful steed named Frieda, and a rag‑tag crowd of passengers laughing all the way to the platform. That’s exactly what unfolded in southern Austria last Wednesday.
The Unlikely Duo
- A German‑speaking hitchhiker tried to hop on two different trains in Styria, but the pet he brought along—yes, a horse—won’t take a backstage pass.
- Despite Frieda’s friendly demeanor, train conductors politely told the pair it was a no‑go.
- Photos captured the rider waving him around while the passengers went “ha‑ha!” and shared the combo on Twitter, spreading the clip far beyond the small Austrian town.
The Official Reaction
State rail operator OeBB’s spokesperson Julianne Pamme said, “We hope this is a one‑off.” She added that big animals can be a safety risk—imagine a horse scattering in the middle of a car that’s about to stop.
What the Rules Actually Say
- Small, non‑dangerous pets are welcome if kept in a sealed container.
- Dogs on a seatbelt and a muzzle qualify too.
- Frieda? Not included—so the next time the rider tries to bring his majestic horse aboard, he’s in for a polite “no.”
“Trains can be thrilling rides, but this little equine cameo just proved you can’t always take a horse for a joyride.”
