West Kelowna traveller pushing for airline to improve its pet policies
Global News
Devyn Plett now travels with three different-size pet carriers when flying with his pomeranian/chihuahua mix, after two run-ins with Air Canada where he was almost denied boarding.
A frequent West Kelowna, B.C., flyer is pushing for Air Canada to change its pet policy after the airline told him he couldn’t fly with his small dog, even with the proper carrier.
The traveller says Air Canada is inconsistent with its policy, as he was able to get on other flights with no hassle and the same carrier.
Devyn Plett now travels with three different-sized pet carriers when flying with his Pomeranian/chihuahua mix, after two run-ins with Air Canada during which he was almost denied boarding.
“Two times I travelled with Air Canada they told me she was too big and the carrier wasn’t humane treatment for her,” said Plett.
Plett frequently flies with his dog, Nancy, which he says fits comfortably in her carrier. Still, Air Canada staff have told him he couldn’t board with her.
“I had to spend about 20 to 30 minutes in both cases just begging to be able to get on my flight,” said Plett.
According to Air Canada’s policies, in addition to the carrier size requirements, the animal has to be able to stand up, turn around and lay down safely and comfortably, but Plett says that’s unrealistic.
“Air Canada has a specific picture on their website that they show me that says her head has to be below the height of the carrier. There’s almost no dog that would fit that requirement,” said Plett.