A few months back, a dog was spotted confidently navigating through various modes of public transportation in Istanbul. The amazing sight caught the attention of Aylin Erol, who works at Metro Istanbul’s customer relations department. She marveled at how the dog seemed to know where he wanted to go and exactly when to get off. Intrigued by the animal’s behavior, Metro Istanbul staff began to keep an eye on him. They eventually named him Boji and took him to a vet for a health check. To ensure he could be tracked, they fitted him with a microchip that was linked to a smartphone app. Now, they can monitor his whereabouts and health.
Boji has captured the hearts of many as he travels through public transportation with ease. His regular trips have made him a star amongst passengers who love taking pictures with him and giving him scratches and treats. Whether he’s lounging on a tram seat, sprinting to catch a train, or enjoying the breeze on a boat ride, Boji is the perfect travel companion. According to Cumhuriyet, “He’s well-versed in all the rules of travel. He patiently waits for disembarking passengers, boards the train, and discreetly chooses a seat for himself. Even if he misses his train, he quickly chases after it.”
Boji travels approximately 18 miles every day, stopping at around 29 stations to delight his fans and spread happiness. Unlike most commuters who can’t wait to alight from the metro or bus, Boji revels in it and considers it the most delightful way to get around. His presence is highly valued by passengers such as Abdulkadir Yalçin, who finds it quite charming. According to him, it adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the subway, brightens their day, and is a unique experience he hasn’t witnessed before.
The saying that the “good boy rides for free” applies to pets who find comfort in public transport as their home. Nowadays, pets provide their owners with companionship, emotional support, and lessened feelings of loneliness and stress. They also help increase self-esteem and positive emotions, especially among children. Although many people treat their pets as part of their family, there are still instances where animals get abandoned, emphasizing the significance of responsible adoption.