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ARCHIVED - Activists ask Spanish airlines to stop treating pets like baggage on planes
A Spanish animal rights group has pointed to the dangers associated with transporting pets in plane cargo holds
When travelling with our pets, many people opt for the car or the train rather than facing the hassle of the paperwork needed to fly. And depending on the size of the dog or cat, many airlines require animals to be kept in the hold of the plane, a situation that is likely to stress even the most relaxed traveller.
Unhappy with the conditions under which many animals are transported, the Parliamentary Association for the Defence of Animal Rights (APDDA) has called on the government to establish rules for Spanish airlines that focus on animal welfare.
“Although in Spain animals are already considered sentient beings, when travelling by plane, for example, they are treated as simple merchandise,” APDDA’s Carles Mulet said. “Dogs, unless they are guide dogs, are put in cages, which is stressful for the animal.”
He also pointed out that cargo holds can actually be dangerous for dogs and cats, given the fluctuation of temperature and air pressure, not to mention the anxiety caused by sudden loud noises.
Most Spanish airlines now allow owners to bring their dogs, cats, certain birds and turtles into the cabin with them, provided they can fit in a secure carrier that doesn’t exceed 45x35x25 centimetres. Essentially, it needs to fit under the seat in front, the same as hand luggage.
Larger breeds (those weighing more than 8 kilos) have to be transported in the hold of the plane. These too must be kept in a sturdy carrier that allows the animal enough space to stand, lie down and turn around. Although it varies between airlines, the maximum weight allowed is usually around 45 kilos.
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Image: APDDA
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