The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine approved the rules for transporting animals on intercity and international buses developed by the Ministry of Community and Territorial Development in cooperation with UAnimals. Among the mandatory requirements for all domestic animals is the presence of a veterinary document.
According to the Ministry of Development’s website, the relevant decision was approved by the government at a meeting on July 7, specifically regarding changes to Cabinet of Ministers Resolution No. 176 on bus transportation rules.
It is noted that animals weighing up to 10 kg – dogs, cats, ornamental birds, rodents – must be transported in special containers, cages, or bags with absorbent bottoms. Such animals may be held in the arms, under the seat, or in a separate place, provided that a ticket is purchased at the adult passenger fare.
In addition, medium and large dogs weighing between 10 and 45 kg may only be transported with a muzzle and on a leash. Passengers are required to purchase all adjacent seats in the same row and place the animal on the floor on a special mat. It is prohibited to use a seat to accommodate an animal. No more than one pet may be transported in the cabin at a time, or two if accompanied by one person.
Dogs weighing more than 45 kg may only be transported in accordance with the carrier’s specific conditions in specially equipped transport.
The rules also state that guide dogs accompanying persons with disabilities are transported free of charge, without purchasing a seat, wearing a muzzle and on a short leash, next to the person they are accompanying.
“The new rules are a step towards safer, more predictable, and more humane transport. They take into account the needs of passengers, animals, and market operators. And importantly, this is another element of harmonization of Ukrainian norms with European standards,” added Deputy Minister of Community and Territorial Development Serhiy Derkach.
