What Ukrainian refugees need to know about the new rules for transporting animals on trains and buses

During the evacuation flights in the first weeks of the full-scale invasion, it was not uncommon to see not only people with suitcases and children on Ukrainian trains, but also cats, dogs, parrots, hamsters and even guinea pigs. Animals were transported in bags, under jackets, in their arms, sometimes without documents and the ability to follow any rules. It was a situation of dire need, in which formalities gave way to salvation. However, in the conditions of a long war and partial stabilization of passenger transportation, there was a need to settle this issue — taking into account safety, comfort and a modern approach to handling animals.

In July 2025, the state company “Ukrzaliznytsia” changed rules for transporting animals in passenger trains. The decision was previously discussed with the animal protection organization UAnimals, representatives of the Ministry of Community Development and transport consultants from European countries. For those who plan to travel with animals in Ukraine or from Ukraine abroad, it is worth carefully familiarizing yourself with the new requirements.

Large dogs: allowed on the train, but with restrictions

The main change concerns large dogs, i.e. those with more than 45 cm at the withers. Now they are allowed to travel in all types of carriages, but with the mandatory observance of certain conditions:

– in the high-speed train “Intercity+”, the passenger must purchase all seats that are placed in one block in a row. The dog must be on the floor next to the owner, under the seats or next to them;

– it is also allowed to transport large dogs in sleeping cars of the “Lux” class and international cars of the RIC type (European standard), but only if the entire compartment is purchased;

– service dogs under the supervision of representatives of the Defense Forces of Ukraine can travel free of charge regardless of the type of car and the size of the animal. However, the presence of a muzzle and a leash remains mandatory throughout the trip.

Small animals: a soft carrier or compartment without a cage

Cats, small-breed dogs and any other animals up to 45 cm tall at the withers can travel under slightly simplified conditions:

– it is allowed to stay in a compartment without a cage or container – provided that all seats are purchased. This form is allowed to ensure the activity of the animal during the trip;

– not only rigid carriers are allowed for transportation, but also modern bags, backpacks, flexible carriers with a waterproof bottom. The ability to keep the animal under control remains a prerequisite;

– in all cases, the passenger must have with him documents for the animal, a ticket for transportation, a muzzle and a leash (for dogs), as well as independently take care of the safety and comfort of others.

The behavior of the animal and the reaction of other passengers: what to do in the event of a conflict

“Ukrzaliznytsia” directly states: passengers who are allergic to animals or feel discomfort from being around them, have the right to contact a conductor or steward. In this case, the train crew is obliged to offer an alternative seat for one of the passengers. Transfers are only possible if there are free seats in the carriage, and the final decision rests with the train staff.

What documents are needed

To legally transport an animal, the passenger must have:

– a veterinary document confirming the health status of the animal (passport or certificate of the established model);

– ticket for an animal — it can be purchased together with a travel ticket or separately;

– leash, muzzle (for dogs) – regardless of how calm or socialized the animal is, the rules require the presence of these safety devices;

– a carrier (if the animal is not traveling in a compartment with purchased seats) – it can be soft, not necessarily frame, but with a waterproof bottom.

Intercity buses: unified rules have been approved for the first time

On July 7, the Cabinet of Ministers passed amendments to Resolution No. 176, which for the first time establish unified requirements for the transportation of pets in long-distance and international bus services. The document was prepared by the Ministry of Community and Territorial Development together with the UAnimals organization and transport sector consultants.

Previously, the rules for the transportation of animals in this mode of transport remained unclear or not regulated at all. Because of this, passengers, carriers and drivers often encountered conflicting interpretations, misunderstandings and the lack of a unified approach. The new regulations are designed to eliminate these problems, regulate the procedure for animal transportation and bring it into line with the requirements of safety, comfort and humane treatment.

As Deputy Minister of Community Development Serhiy Derkach noted, the new rules take into account the interests of three parties at once — passengers, animals and carriers — and bring Ukraine’s regulatory framework closer to the practices used in European Union countries.

Basic requirements for transporting pets

All animals, regardless of size and breed, must be accompanied by a valid veterinary document.

1. For small animals weighing up to 10 kg (in particular, cats, small dogs, decorative birds, rodents), transportation is provided in closed containers, cages or soft bags equipped with an absorbent bottom. Such a carrier is allowed to be placed in the arms, under the seat or on a separate passenger seat – provided that this seat is purchased at the full fare.
2. Medium and large dogs (10-45 kg) can only travel with a muzzle and a leash. The passenger must purchase all adjacent seats in the same row, and the animal itself must be placed on the floor, on a special litter. It is forbidden to use a seat for transporting an animal.
3. It is allowed to transport only one animal at a time on the bus, or two if accompanied by one owner. This restriction is aimed at avoiding conflicts, compliance with sanitary regulations and the safety of other passengers.
4. Dogs weighing more than 45 kg are transported only on specialized transport – upon prior agreement with the carrier and in accordance with separately defined technical conditions.
5. Guide dogs accompanying visually impaired or disabled persons are transported free of charge. Such dogs must be muzzled, on a short leash and be near the accompanied person. Redemption of seats is not required in this case.

So, from now on, there will be no situations where an individual driver refuses to take an animal on board due to the lack of clear instructions. For Ukrainians who travel with animals both within the country and to neighboring countries, this means a clear procedure and predictable conditions for which the carrier is responsible in accordance with approved regulations.

The new rules also complement the changes previously implemented in the railway network, where Ukrzaliznytsia adapted its requirements for the transportation of animals on trains. Thus, both main types of intercity transport — rail and bus — now operate according to agreed principles.