AVMA, airlines working to improve the process for owners, veterinarians when it comes to animals flying

When pet owners want to fly with their animals, veterinarians are asked to sign off on the animal's fitness to fly, rather than its health status. But airlines' requirements can change suddenly and can differ depending on the carrier, making it hard to keep up with what documentation is required and when.

The AVMA is working with U.S. airlines, including United, American, Delta, and Southwest, to look at adopting a transport policy that taps into the expertise of veterinarians and to evaluate plane rides from an animal's perspective, including the unique stresses an animal faces when flying. Together, the AVMA and the airlines are hoping to ensure the best possible experience and outcomes for animals, their owners, other passengers, and the airlines. In the meantime, veterinarians would do well to better educate themselves about pet air travel, so they can give their clients the best information possible.