- If you have been a semi-regular reader of my blog you know that one of my pet peeves (sorry) is people who misuse the support animal laws to obtain free flights for their pets (who cause problems) or turn a blind eye to the myriad of problems their deceit causes. Now federal Law says that people who have support animals must be allowed to bring them on board of the airplanes free of charge. Of course anybody can claim their pet is a support animal and get around having to purchase a ticket. My feeling is and always has been if you have a federal law about Support animals then you need rules and regulations as to what a Support animal is. What do you need to prove to get a permit or license?
- Currently you need nothing except the ability to bat your eyes and line to the airlines about how much you need this animal for emotional support because you hate to fly. Then take a train, take a bus, drive. But don't take the seat next to me. Sara Nelson, President of the Assn. of Flight Attendants said, "The rampant abuse of claiming a need for emotional support animals in air travel is negatively impacting all passengers." Did you catch her wording? RAMPANT ABUSE.
- A survey of flight attendants came out last week and according to the Los Angeles Times these were part of the findings:
- 82% of flight attendants strongly believe a consistent policy throughout the airline industry is needed.
- 62% of flight attendants reported working a flight during which an emotional support animal causes a disruption in the cabin.
- 53% of the disruptions included aggressive or threatening behavior by the animal, including snapping at flight attendants.
- 43% of the disruptions include animals failing to fit under a seat or on the lap of a passenger, roaming the cabin or barking throughout the flight.
- 26% of the disruptions included emotional support animals defecating or urinating in the cabin.
- 13% of the disruptions included conflicts between passengers caused by the presence or behavior of an emotional support animal.
- This must stop. Demand it from your government and airlines and if they don't listen stop f;lying with that particular airline. They only place you can hurt them is in the pocket book. Follow the money.
- As usual I look forward to hearing your comments and experiences.
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