Traveling with pets has become a growing trend and it is not just to make your hairy friends on holiday.
In fact, it is a necessity for many domestic owners – whether it is emotional support or ensuring the safety of someone with health. But the question remains: Is it a really good idea to bring your pet to flight?
While some consider this to be an essential part of their journey, others are not so convinced, concerned about all from the comfort of a pet to potential security risks. With the growing demand for domestic animals in the cabins.
many airlines began to modify their politicians, but the question of whether domestic animals should fly with us – administered under our seat or sit next to us – corresponds to the heat of the debate theme. Let’s explore the benefits, challenges and policy of airlines that now open the door to hairy travelers.
Traveling is often as exhaustive as it is exciting, and in terms of using a pet, opinions are divided. Some people feel that traveling with animals only contributes to stress, while others depend on their pets for emotional or service support. Either way, it is increasingly common to see cats and dogs at the airports next to their owners.
Pets will quickly become respected family members and are hard to leave them behind when they go on holiday. Although it may be heartbreaking without them, some people simply cannot imagine going anywhere without their hairy companions.
Pets in the cabin
In the past, when people traveled with pets, the animals were placed in the kennel and checked to be deposited in the cost of the aircraft to be picked up from the luggage request as soon as the flight landing. Although there have been very few reports about deaths related to pets in freight maintenance, families still feel uncomfortable as they leave their pets in controlled luggage. They are afraid that their pets are experiencing fear, confusion or stress, just as one could take care of their own child.
For some, their pets are not only companions but also vital to their health. In particular, service animals can alert their owners to low blood sugar, upcoming seizures or other health conditions. This caused the ongoing debate about whether pets should be allowed to travel in the cabin, especially in cases where their presence is a question of personal security.
Demand for travel
At the end of 2023, the demand for service and support in the cabin of aircraft increased so much that more than 20 airlines around the world began to allow pets to travel along with passengers in the cabin. Airlines such as French Bee, Tap Air Portugal, Air Canada, Delta, Lufthansa and United Airlines are just a few that have opened their door to hairy passengers.
Each airline has its own set of rules, such as the size, breed and animal age. For example, some airlines require puppies to be at least 8 weeks old, while others determine the minimum age of 12 weeks.
On the other hand, United Airlines do not have weight limits or breed, but require pets to be in a carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. Service animals are an exception because they can travel without a carrier but must have their own place.
It is important to realize that animals of emotional support (aces) are not considered to be business animals and are treated differently. It is allowed to travel in the cab only if they meet the requirements of the domestic company, which means that it must not only be used to reduce anxiety, but to provide medical service.
Emotional support vs. Service animals
Animals of emotional support provide comfort and help relieve anxiety that is common in many adults, with approximately 25 million Americans admit that they suffer from aerophobia (fear of flying). Animals of emotional support, however, differ from service animals in that they do not offer medical service.
Service animals are specially trained to help its owners with health, and must remain concentrated and ready to respond to emergencies. They usually travel free service animals.
While some understand the need for business animals, others perceive the contribution to the animals of emotional support as an apology for pets for free.
For example, passengers shared with the US today that he once encountered a situation where it seemed that the dog was simply traveling for experience, not for any medical purpose. “I love dogs and I understand that some people have special needs,” he explained, “But after watching I’m not sure what the dog provided. It looked more like a free trip for a dog.”
Although not everyone shares this view, it is clear that reflections for other passengers such as those who may have allergies or concerns of animals must be made. While everyone’s adaptation is almost impossible, when traveling with pets, it is necessary to keep in mind a few key things to ensure that the experience is as pleasant for all participants.
In conclusion, traveling with pets is a growing trend that is experiencing mixed opinions between passengers and airlines. While some see the benefits of having their pets with them for emotional or service support, others are afraid of potential security problems and passengers’ comfort. Given that more airlines can accommodate pets in the cabin, everyone has its own policies and regulations to balance the needs of passengers and animals.
Whether it is a service animal providing vital help or a beloved pet that offers comfort, it is clear that the demand for traveling in domestic animals is growing. Finally, it is important to be considerate of the needs of other passengers, including those who have allergies or fear of animals, and to ensure that the travel experience is smooth and pleasant for all involved.