So, what documents are required? Which carrier bag is suitable? What should you pay attention to for the comfort of both you and your little friend? Here is what you need to know about the rules for transporting pets on bus trips:
Is it allowed to carry pets on the bus?
One of the biggest questions for pet owners is whether they can take their little friends with them on bus trips. Bus companies in Türkiye may set different rules regarding pet transportation.The rules regarding the transportation of pets on bus trips in Türkiye are determined according to the Road Transport Regulation. As stated in this regulation on the subject:
“Domestic animals such as cats, dogs (except for those posing a danger) and birds (goldfinches, budgies or canaries) with vaccination certificates may be carried outside the baggage compartment on the lap of the passenger who owns the animal or in front of the seat they are sitting in, provided that their special cages are locked. In necessary cases, special trips may be arranged for the transportation of pets inside the vehicle without passengers. Authorization certificate holders who do not comply with this paragraph will be given 2 warnings.”
Which Companies Allow Pet Transport?
Each bus company creates its own policies based on these general rules and may differ in practice. However, it is possible to carry your pet with you to your destination with almost all companies. Below, the pet transportation policies of some bus companies in Türkiye are detailed.Companies Allowing Pet Transport:
- Pamukkale Tourism
- Varan Tourism
- Metro Tourism
- Ulusoy Tourism
Companies That Do Not Allow Pet Transport or Allow Pets with Limited Permission:
- Nilüfer Turizm: It is stated that only cats, dogs and songbirds (parakeets, canaries) are accepted as pets, but these animals can only be transported in the luggage compartment of the vehicles. Carrying live animals in the vehicle is not allowed.
Which animals can be carried on the bus?
The rules for transporting pets on buses are regulated within certain frameworks. While most bus companies in Türkiye only allow certain animals to be transported, certain types of animals require various restrictions and special permits. Here are the animals allowed on buses and the restrictions:Cat, Dog and Bird Transportation Rules
In general, bus companies in Türkiye allow the transportation of small pets that have a vaccination record and are not dangerous. The main animals allowed to be transported are:- Cat : Can be carried on the bus, provided it is small in size and in a carrying bag.
- Dog : Only small breeds can be carried in the cabin. Large breeds usually have to be carried in the luggage compartment. Prohibited breeds such as Pitbull, Dogo Argentino, Japanese Tosa, Fila Brasileiro are not allowed to be carried.
- Birds : Songbirds such as budgies, canaries and goldfinches can be carried in the cabin, provided they are in their special cages.
Restrictions on Exotic Animals and Rodents
Exotic animals and rodents are generally not allowed on buses. These include:- Reptiles (snakes, lizards, iguanas, turtles, etc.)
- Rodents (hamsters, rabbits, guinea pigs, mice, etc.)
- Arthropods such as spiders and scorpions
- Fish (Even if they are carried in leak-proof and sturdy containers, they are generally not accepted by bus companies.)
Guide Dogs and Special Permit Animals
Guide dogs, which make life easier for people with disabilities, are exempt from the normal rules. Bus companies in Türkiye generally allow visually impaired people to travel on buses with their guide dogs. However, the guide dog must be on a leash and must have documentation showing that it is registered to its owner.- In addition, for animals with special permits, such as therapy or support animals, it may be necessary to contact the company in advance and obtain special permission to be transported by bus.
What are the conditions for transporting pets?
In order to take your pet with you when traveling by bus, you must follow certain rules. These rules are determined to ensure the comfort of both passengers and pets. Here are the most important transportation conditions:Carrying Bag or Cage Requirement
It is mandatory to use a special carrier bag or cage for transporting pets in the bus or in the luggage compartment. This is because:- No discomfort to passengers,
- Safe transportation of pets,
- Preventing possible accidents and hygiene problems.
- It must be locked and secure.
- There must be ventilation holes.
- It must be made of waterproof and cleanable material.
- In general, it should not exceed 23x30x40 cm dimensions (may vary in some companies).
- A larger and more robust carrier cage is required for pets that will be transported in the luggage compartment.
Vaccination Cards and Health Documents
It is essential for your pet to be healthy and fully vaccinated in order to be transported by bus. Pets without veterinary-approved health documents and vaccination records are not allowed to be transported.Commonly requested documents:
- Vaccination report : Especially rabies and combination vaccines must be up to date.
- Veterinary health report : For long journeys, some companies may request a health report from a veterinarian.
Pets on the Bus Require Tickets
Most bus companies do not charge extra for pets, but some companies may require the purchase of an extra seat for the transport of a pet.- Small pets (cats, small dogs, birds) generally do not incur any additional charges as long as they are on the passenger's lap or in a carrier at their feet.
- For medium and large sized pets, some companies require them to be carried in the luggage compartment and may charge an additional fee.
Where Can Pets Travel on the Bus?
Where pets can travel on a bus journey depends on the size of the animal and the rules of the bus company. Most bus companies in Türkiye allow pets to be transported in certain areas, such as the luggage compartment or the passenger cabin. However, different rules may apply for small and large animals. Here are the details of where pets can travel on the bus:Luggage Compartment or Passenger Cabin?
Small Animals (Cat, Small Dog, Birds)- Passenger Cabin : Small-sized pets can travel in the passenger cabin, provided they are in a carrier.
- Bag Size : The bag must have certain dimensions, usually 23x30x40 cm.
- Same Area as Passenger : Small animals can be carried on the passenger's lap or under their feet.
- Special Carrying Bag Requirement : In order to transport small animals, the carrying bag must be safe, closed and sturdy.
- Luggage Compartment : Large-sized animals must be transported in the luggage compartment in special transport cages.
- Carrying Container : Large animals to be transported in the trunk must be in a sturdy, ventilated and waterproof carrying cage.
- Pre-Trip Communication : Some companies may require advance notification before transporting large animals in the hold.
Different Rules for Small and Large Animals
- For Small Animals : Small-sized cats, dogs and birds can generally travel in the cabin. For this, the animal must be in a carrier. There is usually no extra charge for such animals, but some companies may charge additional fees depending on the type of trip.
- For Large Animals : Large dogs and other large animals travel in the baggage compartment in a carrier. Animals that need to be carried in the baggage compartment may be charged extra and are generally only accepted on flights with certain companies.
- Dangerous Breeds and Prohibitions : Some large dog breeds are not allowed to be transported for safety reasons. Such animals include dangerous breeds such as pitbull, dogo argentino and Tosa. Such prohibited animals cannot be transported regardless of their size.
Tips for Making Bus Travel with a Pet Comfortable
Traveling by bus with your pet can be a fun and relaxing experience for both you and your pet. However, long journeys can be stressful for pets. It is important to take a few precautions to make this process more comfortable and to keep some points in mind during the journey. Here are some tips to make your bus journey with your pet more comfortable and enjoyable:Precautions to be taken before a long journey
- Vet Check-up : Before you travel, it is a good idea to take your pet to a vet. When your pet is in good health, the chances of encountering any problems during the trip are reduced.
- Preparation for the Trip : It is very important to get used to the carrier or cage in advance. Let your pet get used to it a few days in advance so that it can stay in this bag peacefully. This will ensure that it is comfortable during the trip.
- Exercise : Help your pet burn off some energy by taking him for a short walk before the trip. This way, he will be calmer and more relaxed during the bus journey.
Ways to Prevent Pets from Getting Stressed
- Familiar Items : Keeping a favorite toy, blanket, or familiar scent in your pet's carrier can help reassure them. Pets feel more secure when they see familiar scents.
- Start Slow : For a pet taking a long trip for the first time, it can be good practice to take short trips so your pet can get used to bus travel.
- Calming Products : If your pet is extremely stressed during the trip, you can consult your veterinarian and use natural stress-relieving products or calming sprays. Pheromone sprays can also be quite effective for some dogs.
- Music or White Noise : Some pets do not like sounds and noise coming from outside. In this case, you can calm them down by bringing a white noise device or turning on calming music.
Nutrition and Toilet Needs During the Journey
- Nutrition : To prevent your pet from experiencing stomach upset during the trip, be sure to give them their meals before the trip. On long trips, it may be a good idea to keep the recommended meals a little lighter the evening before the trip.
- Water and Snacks : Take some water and small snacks with you to keep your pet hydrated. Providing water regularly during travel is important for your pet's comfort.
- Toilet Needs : Your pet may need to relieve itself during the journey. Taking short walks at the breaks during long bus journeys will help it meet its toilet needs. In addition, you can carry travel toilet pads for small dogs so that it can urinate comfortably on the bus.