WASHINGTON — Planes, trains, and automobiles—people have many options when trying to get home for the holidays. But when pets are involved, The Humane Society of the United States urges the public to take special precautions.
In the spring of 2005, provisions of the Safe Air Travel for Animals Act went into effect. Airlines are now required to report to the U.S. Department of Transportation any complaints they receive from passengers about animal mistreatment or neglect. This information is reported on the website of the Aviation Consumer Protection Division at http://airconsumer.ost.dot.gov/reports/atcr05.htm.
The latest data available from May through September shows that at least 16 animals died, 16 animals were injured, and three animals were lost during that time. "These numbers support what animal welfare activists have been reporting for years—traveling by air can be risky for pets," said Kelly Connolly, HSUS issues specialist for companion animals.
The HSUS recommends not to transport pets by air unless absolutely necessary. Traveling by car can be a safer option and another is to leave your pets at home in the care of a responsible pet sitter or placing them at a boarding kennel.
All holiday travelers should have their pets examined by a veterinarian before traveling and should carry a copy of their pets' current vaccination records. Pet owners should also carry a current photograph of their pet in case he or she becomes lost in transit. Pets should have proper identification with a current address and phone number on the collar.
If you must travel by air with your pet, The HSUS offers several tips and resources to make your pet's trip as safe and stress-free as possible For air transportation tips and additional information on traveling by car, finding a boarding kennel and more, visit www.hsus.org and type "pet travel" in the search engine.
The Humane Society of the United States is the nation's largest animal protection organization representing more than 9.4 million members and constituents. The non-profit organization is a mainstream voice for animals, with active programs in companion animals and equine protection, disaster preparedness and response, wildlife and habitat protection, animals in research and farm animal welfare. The HSUS protects all animals through education, investigation, litigation, legislation, advocacy, and field work. The group is based in Washington and has numerous field representatives across the country. On the web at www.hsus.org.
