The Ministry of Community and Territorial Development has developed new changes to the rules for transporting pets in commercial road transport – buses and taxis. The initiative was formalized in the form of a draft resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers “On Amendments to Resolutions of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine No. 176 of February 18, 1997 and No. 1402 of November 16, 2011.” Document placed on the website of the ministry in the section for public discussion.
The project proposed an updated list of domestic animals, which include dogs, cats, ferrets (ferrets), small ornamental birds, rodents and rabbits — with the exception of animals grown for food production. At the same time, it is emphasized that it is only about maintenance for a personal, non-commercial purpose — to satisfy aesthetic and communication needs.
A rule is introduced, according to which the owner of a pet must have a veterinary document with him and present it at the driver’s request.
“Small pets, small dogs and cats (weighing up to 10 kg), indoor decorative birds in special means of transportation (cage, container, box, basket, backpack, bag or other container with a waterproof absorbent bottom) are allowed to be transported in the interior of the vehicle.
Transportation must be carried out in the hands of the passenger or under the seats or on the adjacent seat, provided that the adjacent seat is purchased at the cost of the adult passenger’s fare and there are absorbent mats to protect the seat.”, the document says.
Medium (10–20 kg) and large (20–45 kg) dogs can be transported in the cabin of the vehicle, provided they have a muzzle and a leash. You also need to buy all seats located in a single block next to the accompanying person.
According to the project, it is allowed to transport no more than one pet in the cabin (two if accompanied by one person). Dogs weighing more than 45 kg can be transported only in specially equipped vehicles.
Regarding guide dogs accompanying persons with disabilities, the document states:
“Transportation of guide dogs accompanying persons with disabilities is carried out with a muzzle and a leash (chain or belt attachment). The guide dog must be next to the passenger it is accompanying and must be kept on a short leash.”
It is also assumed that a passenger traveling with an animal must ensure compliance with sanitary and hygienic requirements and ensure their elimination. Also, he must stay with the animal at all times during the trip and not leave it alone or under the supervision of outsiders.
Motor transporters are allowed to independently determine which vehicles will be used for transporting animals. At the same time, the design features of the transport are taken into account.
