VIRGIN ATLANTIC may be looking after its pets better than its competitors (see ABTN 23 May) but across the pond it really is a ”dog”s life”. Nobody seems to know how many animals are killed or injured on flights annually. Figures as high as 1% have been suggested, or 200,000 casualties. Under new legislation airlines must report how many pets are killed, lost or injured on flights. The government estimates 2m animals fly commercially every year. Many airlines allow small pets to travel in portable kennels under seats, where the owners are responsible for their safety. Larger pets travel in cargo holds, where they can be exposed to extreme heat or cold and loud noises from aircraft engines. In 12 months or so we shall begin to know how the figures are working out. No doubt the RSPCA is watching out too.
http://www.aspca.org