Over 22,000 home animals shipped across long train journeys in the Ural region during the first seven months of 2025
In a move that mirrors recent updates in neighboring countries like Ukraine, pet transportation on trains in Russia is set to undergo changes, although specific details for Russia are not yet directly available. Based on the similarities between the Ukrainian regulations and practices, here's what passengers can expect when traveling with their pets:
Allowed Species: Dogs, cats, and small pets are likely to be permitted if properly documented and carried appropriately. While the exact list of allowed species for Russia is not specified, Ukraine's rules extend to dogs, cats, ferrets, and some invertebrates (excluding bees), and it's plausible that Russia will follow a similar suit.
Carrier Size and Conditions: Small pets (up to 45 cm at the withers) must travel in rigid carriers or approved waterproof bags/backpacks and can be placed on the owner’s lap or in the designated hand luggage space. Larger dogs (over 45 cm at the withers) will likely require a leash, muzzle, and the purchase of all seats in the compartment or row to ensure no other passengers are sitting close. These larger dogs must stay on the floor next to the owner.
Documentation and Tickets: A valid veterinary document, proof of rabies vaccination, and a ticket for the pet (often equivalent to a baggage fee) will be required. Passengers can book their pet's ticket simultaneously with their own tickets or independently later via digital platforms such as mobile applications or online ticket offices.
Digital Solutions for Booking: The convenience of digital management of pet travel is emphasized, with passengers able to purchase tickets for their pets via the RZD mobile app or website, facilitating easier bookings.
Special Exceptions: Service dogs, especially those accompanying defense or disabled persons, often have special allowances such as free travel and relaxed seating requirements, subject to leash and muzzle rules.
These summarized pet travel policies reflect the evolving trend in the region towards more inclusive, digital, and animal-comfort-oriented regulations, initiated in Ukraine in mid-2025, which are likely to be similar for Russia given regional policy alignments.
As for the Ural branch of the Federal Passenger Company, it has already made strides in pet-friendly travel. Since August 2025, sugar gliders and meerkats are allowed, expanding the total number of allowed animal species to nearly 40. Cats, dogs, and birds are the most common pets transported, with less frequently transported species including turtles, fish, and rodents. From January to July 2025, the Ural branch transported nearly 22,500 domestic animals, representing a 15% increase compared to the same period last year.
When booking transportation at the RZD cashier or website, a ticket must be purchased for all transported animals. The expected duration of pet cohabitation can be determined when purchasing a ticket, and a suitable seat can be chosen for pet transportation, either next to a four-legged neighbor or not. Small animals must be transported in special carriers, which must be located at hand luggage locations.
Wagons where pet transportation is allowed are marked with a special paw symbol, and this functionality will soon be available in the "RZD Passengers" mobile app. Passengers can see if pet transportation is allowed in a carriage when purchasing a ticket on the RZD website or app.
[1] Ukrainian pet transportation regulations [2] Ukrainian pet transportation practices [4] Ural branch of the Federal Passenger Company pet transportation
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