The Crate Debate…

The pet-owner community at large have countless stories, usually negative, about the high prices and major pet health  problems associated with pets being transported by air. For many years, flights were not pet-friendly. Pets were only allowed to travel as cargo, and as such were often mishandled or not given adequate care, especially on extended trips where delays were an issue.

Today, many airlines are adopting pet-friendly policies by allowing small pets to travel in the passenger cabin of a plane in a pet carrier. The relief for pet owners is tremendous… whereas for non-pet people, pets traveling in the cabin can seem to be an imposition, especially for allergy-sufferers. It would seem that the airlines can’t win. Ramping up service to accommodate pet people is not all rosy.

Check here for the most recent New york Times poll results for this debate - “Pets Onboard: Growls and Purrs”. Also of interest is the very strong  letter from The Lung Association against the Canadian Health Committee Chair for her stance regarding pets being allowed in the passenger cabin on Canada’s two major airlines. The Lung Association has launched an on-line campaign for pet-free flights, citing health risks for passengers and crew alike.

Pet-friendly services from hotels to shops and restaurants are steadily increasing, despite a similar debate from people without pets (non-pet people). It will be interesting to see the results of the Lung Association’s campaign and if it also moves to include the aforementioned pet-friendly services.