Question for Beverly Lynn...pets in the main cabin

[Patabel]

Let me preface this by saying I love cats and dogs. But wIth the large amount of the population having allergies to cats and dogs, I don't understand why airlines allow small dogs/cats to be carried into the main cabin? (With the exception of sight-dogs, of course)

I was on a flight recently (Minneapolis to SF) where the poor woman next to me sneezed and wheezed the entire flight, only to find out that there was a small dog, asleep in a carrier, under the seat in front of her. And she had severe allergies to dogs. I felt really bad for her...what a horrible flight she had!

Just wondered.....thanks!

 

[Beverly Lynn]

not sure how to explain this one except to say that if anyone has any kind of allergy to a dog or cat then they need to check with the airline before they travel to see if a pet in booked in the cabin. since the air is recirculated it most certainly can and will affect anyone with allergies. if you or anyone you know has an allergy that could be affected like this then they need to have an OSI message into their PNR so that when the manifest is printed up for the gate agents they can see this(it will come up as a special need like a wheelchair etc) and then if there is a pet in the cabin they can make alternate arrangements for this passenger to go on another flight(at no charge) there are so few flights that pets are booked in the cabin that they don't really think its a major problem. but they wil accommodate someone who would get ill from traveling in the same aircraft as a pet. hope this helps you somewhat.

 

[Patabel]

Thanks for your reply and information. As I mentioned, I was just curious to know what was the reasonining to allow pet travel in main cabins.

I think this is good information for most of us to know. While I have been blest to not have those type of allergies, I do know of some folks who would fall into this category.

Thanks, again!

 

[GAIL HAYDEN]

The reasoning is that they allow one pet per class of travel in an approved under the seat carrier. You have to ask first, naturally.
There is no restriction for service animals. If you are allergic to animals you could well find yourself in a bind, service or pet.
I wish they could put some sort of restriction on the rancid perfume people wear. That causes me no end of agnst and reaction.
Personally, and certainly not to start a war and not to be considered nasty, I would prefer a cabin full of animals rather than some of the little beasts on two legs I have encountered on flights. IMHO, they are the ones that should be in an approved under the seat carrier.