Ukrzaliznytsia, Ukraine’s state railway operator, has officially updated its rules for traveling with pets — and the changes are a game-changer for animal lovers. Whether you’re boarding a high-speed Intercity+ train or planning an overnight journey in a sleeper car, your furry companion is now welcome on board, with far more flexibility than ever before.
In collaboration with UAnimals, specialists from the Ministry for Communities, Territories and Infrastructure Development, and international transport experts, Ukrzaliznytsia has created new regulations that recognize both the needs of animals and the comfort of passengers.
Bigger Dogs Are No Longer Left Behind
Previously, large dogs were limited in where they could travel, but under the new policy, dogs over 45 cm at the withers can now join their owners across all train types:
Intercity+ trains: Owners must book an entire row of adjacent seats. Dogs must remain on the floor — either under or next to the owner’s seat.
Luxury sleeper compartments and international (RIC) cars: All seats in the compartment must be purchased, a rule that already applied in these classes.
Military or service dogs: These are allowed in all train types free of charge, regardless of size — as long as they are leashed and muzzled.
Small Pets Get More Freedom Too
If you’re traveling with a small dog, cat, or another compact companion (under 45 cm at the withers), you now have options that reflect modern pet travel standards:
In sleeper compartments, you can let them out of a carrier for rest and relaxation — as long as you’ve booked all the seats.
Rigid plastic carriers are no longer a must. Soft-sided pet bags, travel backpacks, or any secure container with a waterproof base are now accepted.
Don’t Forget the Essentials
To board with a pet, passengers still need:
A valid pet travel ticket
Veterinary documents
A leash and muzzle for larger dogs
The focus is on ensuring comfort — both for the pet and for other passengers. If someone experiences discomfort or an allergic reaction due to a nearby animal, train staff will do their best to find an alternative seat.
With these new policies, Ukrzaliznytsia takes a major step toward aligning with European pet travel standards — and opens the doors to a new era of pet-friendly train travel across Ukraine.
