Pets on trips: Which ones are allowed? On which public transport?

Nowadays, it's quite common to bring your beloved pet along on your travels, whether you're exploring Greece or heading abroad. Fortunately, many accommodations are pet-friendly, making it convenient for those who don't have someone to care for their pets while on holiday. However, to ensure a hassle-free trip, it's essential to follow some guidelines.

Pets allowed

Under certain regulations, you can take your dog or cat virtually anywhere you'd like to go. However, it's important to note that the rules for birds, aquatic animals, reptiles, rodents, or rabbits can vary from country to country, and they tend to be quite strict, with hefty fines for non-compliance.

Traveling by Different Modes of Public Transport:

Airplanes

When it comes to air travel, the transport of dogs and cats is primarily determined by their weight and size. Depending on these factors, as well as the dimensions of their carrier or cage, they may be allowed to travel in the cabin or in the aircraft's cargo hold. Keep in mind that each airline has its own specific regulations for pet transportation.

Buses

On KTEL buses, it's not permitted to place animals in the luggage compartment. Small animals weighing under 10 kg can travel in a cage with maximum dimensions of 50x40x35 cm. Larger animals should be on a leash and wear a muzzle, and typically, two animals are allowed on each bus.

Ships

When traveling by ship, larger pets are usually required to stay outside and are not allowed in the passenger interior areas or car garages. They must remain on a leash and always with their owner, who should carry the necessary health certificates. Some ships offer special pet cabins where they can stay with their owners. With the captain's approval, small animals under 10 kg may be allowed in designated indoor and outdoor areas, provided they are in special cages and have the required certificates. It's advisable for pets to wear an ID card with their owner's information and have another one in their cage, just in case.

Trains

Train travel follows similar guidelines. Small animals can travel in a cage with maximum dimensions of 50x40x70 cm at their owner's feet, as long as they don't disturb other passengers. Otherwise, they must be placed in the baggage storage area with larger animals, where the maximum cage dimensions are typically 118x76x88 cm. This area is ventilated but not air-conditioned, and the pet owner can only enter with the train supervisor.

By adhering to these guidelines and ensuring that your pet meets the specific requirements for each mode of transport, you can enjoy a safe and enjoyable journey with your furry companion.

Tags: travelling pet, pets