ASPCA Responds To Latest FAA Regulations

American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
Wednesday, 20 August 2003

Organization warns that the skies are still unsafe for many animals.

In response to recently issued regulations by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to implement the Safe Air Travel For Animals Act, "safeguarding" pets flying in airline cargo holds, The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) is warning pet owners and animal advocates alike that the skies remain unsafe for many animals. The regulations, which are still awaiting implementation, will require airlines to compile monthly reports on how many pets are injured, lost or killed. However, the reports will only include animals being kept in family households. Animals destined for resale at pet stores or for research purposes will not be accounted for.

"These regulations mark a definite step in the right direction, says Lisa Weisberg, ASPCA Senior Vice President of Government Affairs and Public Policy. "However, much of the language which we had lobbied for has been left out which will negatively impact the thousands of animals that fly each year."

The Safe Air Travel For Animals Act passed in April 2000 mandates that airlines incorporate training programs for their personnel in order to comply with the Animal Welfare Act. The airlines are already subject to this Act that governs, among other things, how animals are transported in interstate commerce. Improved training programs per the Safe Air Travel For Animals Act, would help minimize the loss, injury or death of animals transported in cargo holds. Unfortunately, the new regulations do not address this issue. However, airlines should be developing such mandated programs to be in compliance with both Acts.

The ASPCA is reminding the public that the new law does not change any of the conditions under which animals are transported while in the cargo holds. Currently, the compartments are not temperature controlled they are only pressurized. Without temperature control, animals still run the risk of injury or death. "Our message to pet owners remains the same, continued Weisberg. "Unless your animal is small enough to fit under your seat and you can bring them in the cabin, do not fly your animal."

The ASPCA will be monitoring the implementation of the new law and will review the reporting of incidents that do occur, the circumstances surrounding them, and what the airline did to correct the problem.

For more information, or to contact American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, see their website at: www.aspca.org