The Cabinet of Ministers has established new rules for the transportation of animals in buses: what you need to know

8 July 2025 00:17

For the first time, the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine has approved uniform rules for the transportation of pets in intercity and international buses. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Community and Territorial Development, "Komersant Ukrainian" reports

The decision was made at a government meeting on July 7. It concerns amendments to Cabinet of Ministers Resolution No. 176.

The new rules were developed by the Ministry of Community and Territorial Development in cooperation with the NGO UAnimals.

The new rules now clearly regulate the conditions of transportation of animals of different sizes and weights, and make it mandatory for every pet to have a veterinary document.

“Until now, we had unclear and ambiguous rules that defined how to transport animals in intercity and international buses. This created confusion for passengers, drivers, and carriers. The new rules are a step towards safer, more predictable and humane transportation,” said Serhiy Derkach, Deputy Minister of Communities and Territories Development.

Main changes: what the new rules provide for

For the first time, clear requirements have been established for the transportation of animals in buses – both on domestic routes and during international transportation.

Separate rules have been defined for:

small animals (up to 10 kg) – cats, decorative dogs, rodents, birds;
medium and large dogs (10-45 kg);
dogs weighing more than 45 kg;
guide dogs for people with disabilities.

How animals will be transported – rules by category

Small animals up to 10 kg

They are transported in containers, bags or cages with an absorbent bottom.
They can be held in your arms, under the seat, or in a neighboring seat (subject to a full-fare ticket redemption).

Medium and large dogs (10-45 kg)

A muzzle and leash are required.
The passenger must redeem all adjacent seats in the row.
The animal is placed on the floor on a litter, the use of seats is prohibited.
There can be no more than one animal in the cabin , or two if there is one person with them.

Guide dogs

They are transported free of charge.
In a muzzle, on a short leash.
They must be accompanied by a person with a disability.

Dogs weighing more than 45 kg

Can be transported only under special conditions of the carrier and only in specially equipped vehicles.

Additional requirements:

In all cases, a veterinary passport is required.
The passenger must ensure the cleanliness, safety and control of the animal.
The carrier has the right to refuse transportation if the animal or passenger does not meet the requirements.

Who should inform passengers?

Employees of bus stations, drivers, and carriers are obliged to inform passengers about the possibility of transporting animals and the rules of this process.
Amendments have been made to the Rules for the provision of passenger transport services (Resolution No. 176) and the Rules for the transportation of animals (Resolution No. 1402).

When will the rules come into force?

The new requirements will become mandatory after the official publication of the resolution. They apply to all domestic and international bus transportation.