Ukrzaliznytsia prepares new rules for animal carriage after scandal with military man in vestibule
3 July 2024 08:42
“After consulting with lawyers and animal rights activists, Ukrzaliznytsia initiated changes to the rules for transporting animals in railcars. In particular, they want to allow the free transportation of military service dogs if they have a muzzle and leash. This was reported by the press service of Ukrazaliznytsia, "Komersant Ukrainian" reports
The rules will be put up for public discussion, and the final decision will be made by the State Regulatory Service.
“We have studied tons of feedback, the experience of partner railways, involved UAnimals experts, lawyers, colleagues from the Ministry of Community, Territorial and Infrastructure Development, and have already submitted changes for approval, which we are ready to discuss with you and take into account the interests of animal owners and all those who avoid contact with them for various reasons,”
– the company said.
What changes are proposed by Ukrzaliznytsia?
- The definition of “rigid construction” will be removed from the description of carriers: a modern pet backpack will do, as long as it has a waterproof, absorbent bottom.
- For small animals up to 45 cm at the withers, it will be allowed to temporarily stay without a carrier for healthy activity and/or sleeping on a compartment shelf.
- Large dogs over 45 cm will be allowed to travel in SV and RIC coaches, subject to full redemption of the compartment.
- Large dogs will also be able to travel in Intercity on condition that all seats in a single block in a row are purchased.
- Any service dogs of the Defence Forces will be able to travel free of charge in all types of carriages – with a muzzle and leash.
- If a passenger feels uncomfortable or has an allergic reaction to the animal, alternative seats will be provided.
Ukrzaliznytsia has also announced a joint social campaign with UAnimals to encourage passengers without animals to treat passengers with animals more humanely.
It should be noted that in late March, a military man was not allowed to board a train with his service dog and had to travel in the vestibule. Ukrzaliznytsia explained this decision by the rules for transporting animals and at the same time acknowledged that they were outdated.
According to the current rules, large dogs (over 45 cm at the withers) are transported on regional trains in the outer vestibules of the first and last carriages under the supervision of an attendant.
