The holidays usually mean that there will be a lot of first-time travelers going through security checkpoints. I know some will want to bring their pets along so it’s important to know the rules so we don’t injure or have something worse happen to our extended family members. RELATED: Alert Your Airline in Advance If You Have a Pet Allergy
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1, Always check your bags to make sure there are no unexpected visitors
Yes, some pets know you’re leaving and want to go with you or they just like the coziness of your bag. Just last week, a TSA officer at New York’s JFK Airport was shocked to find an orange cat inside a checked bag after it went through the X-ray unit. The traveler said the cat belonged to someone else in his household. Fortunately, they caught it before loading the bag on the plane because with the luggage compartment isn’t pressurized.
A @TSA officer was shocked to find an orange cat inside a checked bag at @JFKairport after it went through the X-ray unit. Traveler said the cat belonged to someone else in his household. On the bright side, the cat’s out of the bag and safely back home. pic.twitter.com/5XZVJLaZNm
— Lisa Farbstein, TSA Spokesperson (@TSA_Northeast) November 22, 2022
2. Check your airline pet policy before arriving to the airport
Covid did a number on everything, including pet travel so be sure to check your airline’s pet policy before going to the airport. Below are the United States’ top five carriers’ policies.
3. Know the security checkpoint rules
Most airlines don’t allow pets in the cargo any more so if you’re bringing your pet onboard, be sure not to put the animal through security. A couple of days ago, a dog was accidentally sent through the X-ray at Wisconsin’s Madison Airport. The TSA tweeted the photo and a video (see below) so future travelers don’t make the same mistake. “When traveling with any animal, notify your airline & know their rules. At the checkpoint, remove your pet from the bag and send all items, including the empty carrier, to be screened in the machine. Video: Here’s the proper way to travel with your pet. Note: This is a @TSA PreCheck passenger traveling with a cat. If you think your pet will attempt an escape, ask to speak with a supervisor before removing the animal. Alternative screening options may be available.
Video: Here’s the proper way to travel with your pet. Note: This is a @TSA PreCheck passenger traveling with a cat. If you think your pet will attempt an escape, ask to speak with a supervisor before removing the animal. Alternative screening options may be available. (2/2) pic.twitter.com/NL2jNjni2l
— TSA_GreatLakes (@TSA_GreatLakes) December 6, 2022
Was the traveler trying to sneak the dog through so they didn’t have to pay the airline’s pet fee? I’m not sure but I think it’s possible and as one person commented, that’s sick and inhumane to put a dog in a sealed backpack.
“That is inhumane to carry a pet in a sealed backpack, which of course is not airline approved for carrying a pet. Most likely they were trying to get past not having to pay the carry-on pet fee. Sick.”
Another Twitter user commented a good warning on the TSA’s post: “Just a heads up. Several years ago, I got into a tug-a-war with a TSA person as they attempted to grab my pet tote and sling it onto the belt. Despite having screens at both ends, he thought it was a regular tote bag. I had to point out my dog was inside while he yelled.”
RELATED: Traveling with a pet? This pet first aid kit is vet-approved and is perfect for bleeding nails, cleaning and dressing wounds. The self-adhering bandage will not stick to hair. It’s also good for backpacking, camping, and travel.
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