January 2009 Airline Pet Travel Report

Alaska Airlines reports the death of a dog that escaped from its kennel at Orlando International, FL. The mixed-bread dog escaped its kennel and was when it was hit by a car on an access road. (Though reported with the January report, this incident happen in December and should have appeared in the February Report.)

Delta Airlines reports the death of a 4 year-old Golden Retriever at Atlanta, GA. The dog was in the kennel being transported to the aircraft when it managed to break through the crate and was found dead by a ramp agent.

Northwest Airlines reports the death of an African Grey Parrot upon arrival at Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila, The Philippines from Detroit, MI. Another parrot in the same cage arrived safe. No further information was provided. Northwest Airlines also reports the possible injury of a 3 year-old Yellow Lab because the water bowl was frozen when the plane arrived in Sioux Falls, SD. Northwest made a note on the incident to remind its staff to place a note on the kennel that they place a frozen water bowl in the kennel so the dog will have water during the flight.

American Airlines reports the injury of an English Setter named Rio at Dallas Ft. Worth, TX. Rio was injured when kennel overturned on a baggage over-sized belt. The kennel was damaged in the incident and the dog received a hernia during the event. AA notes that a Pet Injury Handling Guide has been issued to all AA claim areas at DFW airport.

Horizon Air reports the loss of a dog at Portland, OR. A Horizon agent removed the dog from its kennel in an attempt to walk the dog. The dog was found by its owners four days later. Horizon notes on preventive actions: Coaching with the employee that opened the kennel and reviewing the policy. In addition, we reminded all employees of this policy via a bulletin sent on November 17, 2008.

A reminder to all to use zip ties to secure the kennel door when you fly with your pets.