Starting next Sunday, June 7, users of TIB intercity buses in Mallorca will be able to board the vehicle accompanied by their pets, provided they travel properly inside a carrierThe measure represents a significant change in how public transport is understood on the island, bringing it closer to a model more open to pets.
Until now, in the Balearic Islands Transport Network (TIB) Only assistance dogs were allowed entryWith the new regulations, published in the Official Gazette of the Balearic Islands (BOIB), the range of animals allowed is expanded and the conditions are detailed to ensure that coexistence inside the bus is safe and comfortable for all passengers.
Which animals will be allowed to travel on TIB buses?
The new regulations approved by the Board of Directors of the Mallorca Transport Consortium It clearly states what types of pets are allowed on the bus. The following will be permitted:
- Dogs considered companion animals.
- Cats households.
- Ferretsprovided they are registered pets.
- Small non-farm birds, such as domestic birds that are transported in their cage or suitable box.
In all cases, the essential condition is that the animal travels within a suitable transport basket, cage or carrierthat it remains closed throughout the journey and that the pet's behavior does not pose a risk or annoyance to other users.
On the contrary, the regulation expressly prohibits access with exotic animals such as reptiles, spiders, or insectsThis type of species is completely excluded for reasons of safety, hygiene and the possible discomfort they may cause to the rest of the passengers.
Conditions for traveling with pets: carrier and location
Beyond which animals can board, the new TIB regulations set a series of very specific conditions regarding how pets must travelThe most important is the mandatory use of a carrier or transport basket, which must be sturdy, properly closed, and allow the animal to travel comfortably and with ventilation.
The rule also sets a clear limit: Only one pet carrier per user is allowed.In other words, each passenger may only bring one pet or one container with their pets, always respecting the dimensions and good condition of the container.
Regarding the placement of the pet carrier inside the bus, the regulations state that may not occupy a seat under any circumstancesThe carrier must be placed on the floor, at the feet of the person traveling with the animal, or on their lap, provided it does not encroach on the space of other passengers or obstruct aisles or emergency exits. The correct Placement of the pet carrier inside the bus It contributes to accessibility and sustainable mobility.
The presence of the animal It should not pose a danger or an inconvenience. for no one. This means that if the pet barks continuously, produces very strong odors, or shows signs of aggression, service staff may intervene to ensure the safety and well-being of other users. In case of doubts about behavior and coexistence, practical information can be consulted on How to travel with dogs on buses and in public spaces.
The Ministry of Housing, Territory and Mobility points out that these conditions aim to reconciling the right to travel with pets with the duty to maintain a pleasant and safe environment on public transport, so that all travelers feel comfortable sharing space with pets.
Exception for assistance dogs: access without carrier
The new regulations maintain and reinforce the special status of the assistance dogsThese animals will continue to be allowed on the bus without needing a carrier. They are considered essential support for many people with disabilities and are therefore subject to separate regulations.
In order to benefit from this special scheme, the assistance dog must be registered in an official register recognized by a competent bodyUpon boarding the bus, passengers must show the driver their card or accreditation issued by the relevant public administration. The regulation takes into account demands for unimpeded access for guide dogs, as outlined in initiatives regarding... the rights of guide dogs.
This documentary requirement allows verify that the animal is trained and authorized as an assistance dogthus ensuring that it is a companion trained to behave correctly in public spaces and means of transport.
The regional authorities emphasize that the entry of these dogs remains a priority and that They are not required to have a carrier, a specific muzzle, or any additional conditions. beyond those already established in the regulations on assistance dogs, respecting the rights of the people who depend on them in their daily lives.
Processing, entry into force and other related rules
The regulation that allows pets to travel on TIB intercity buses It was published in the BOIB one month before it came into forceThus, the effective date set is Sunday, June 7, in compliance with the deadline established since its official approval.
The regulatory text is not limited to pets: It also elaborates in greater detail on the conditions for transporting hand luggage, suitcases, bicycles, strollers and other items.The aim is to organize the use of available space inside the bus and avoid conflicts between users.
The document also recalls the basic rules of coexistence on boardemphasizing guidelines such as giving up your seat to people with reduced mobility, avoiding behaviors that disrupt the peace of the journey, and respecting both the service staff and the other passengers.
The initial proposal for this new regulation was made public months ago, when the process began. processing with a public comment periodDuring that time, the regulations were analyzed and debated in different forums: user presentations, meetings with transport operators and sessions in the Consell Balear de Transports.
The final text incorporates Contributions from entities such as IBDona and associations of people with disabilities, including ASPAYMTheir participation has helped to adjust the regulations to the needs of particularly sensitive groups, so that opening up transport to pets does not pose an additional barrier for anyone.
With this modification, the intercity bus service in Mallorca It takes a significant step towards a more inclusive model, adapted to the reality of many households.where pets are part of the family. The possibility of traveling with pets, subject to clear rules, aims to facilitate daily commutes without compromising safety, accessibility, and coexistence on public transport.
