Some pet owners just can't leave their pets at home. They want to take them everywhere they go, even if it means flying with them. While it's certainly understandable to want to keep your furry (and not so furry) friend close, flying with a pet can be a challenge.

Pets can get stressed out by flying, just like people can. They may not do well in a small space, like an aeroplane seat or under the seat in front of you.

And the worst part is that those setups are the best case accommodations for your pet during the flight.

We know that some of you (those who have not tried flying with their pets) are confused about this whole arrangement as you might assume that pets sit with their owners during the flight, similar to some setups portrayed in the media.

However, the unfortunate reality is that the animals are loaded into a plane cabin along with the baggage.

Here's a video for proof:

Credit: TikTok/@djsugue​

The man in the video, known as Dj Sugue on TikTok, is a professional airport baggage handler who has been working with Canada’s Vancouver International Airport for six years.

The airport staff member also shares clips about some behind-the-scenes secrets in airports, raising awareness of some common misconceptions about flying.

In one of his most recent videos, titled 'You Ever Wonder How Dogs Are Handled at the Airport,' Dj revealed how airport staff put pet dogs into plane cargo holds before flights.

'This is how you load a dog,' he says in the clip while securing the carrier using a bright yellow belt.

He then puts the other end of the belt around his shoulders and continues, 'And after that, I also strap myself, as I will be flying with the dog. Aww, aww!' He sarcastically adds.

The video has gone viral, amassing more than 1.7 million views and thousands of comments from users who were arguing whether it is ethical for pets to be kept this way during flights.

One user said: 'Here’s an idea get rid of first class and make it a pet-friendly section.'

'I think if it’s safe enough for pets in there it should be safe enough for their owners to be sat next to them,' another argued.

An airport employee revealed how workers tuck pets inside the aeroplane. Credit: TikTok/@djsugue​

Several airport employees and medical experts were also drawn to the argument, taking the opportunity to share their thoughts.

One person wrote: 'I work at an airport and my office is beside the baggage hold and when I hear dogs whining and crying I get so sad.'

'We occasionally have pets brought to the ER by airport staff (immediately after landing) for heatstroke,' the health medic added.

Meanwhile, other users pointed fingers at the pet owners who 'forced' their furry friends to fly with them.

'I could never be so heartless as to put a pet on a plane like that,' read one comment.

Another chimed in: 'Show us how a nice lightweight wheelchair is loaded and secured ‘cause mine has gotten destroyed & replaced 3 times in 1 year.'

Sugue also joined the debate, saying that each airline has different policies.

'Some US airlines allow pets to sit next to their owners on the plane for an additional cost,' he claimed.

Pets are part of the family. They provide us with companionship, love, and security. In return, we want to give them the best care possible, including providing them with the best accommodations. As much as we understand that some pet owners can experience separation anxiety from their pets when they travel, it is best to prioritise your pet's best interest and welfare when it comes to your decisions on whether you should travel with them or not.

We want to hear your thoughts on this. Do you think the way airport workers tuck in our pets during flights is ethical? Share your opinions with us in the comments below!

 

[Ricci]

When I go to visit family I choose to drive for 12 hours rather than take the Sydney/Melbourne plane as I have my dogs with me. Luckily they travel well in the car and we all arrive safely with them relaxed and happy. I'm not sure that would be the case if I put them in crates on the plane.

 

[Elbe]

Aside from the fact that animals have varying personalities, same as humans, which means some pets will cope with travel while others are traumatised by ..... pets don't need 'holidays' - because they don't work However, sometimes it is necessary for pets to be transported long distances when their family moves interstate but it's rarely done lightly in my experience & most vets provide good advice on how to safely move pets. As far as taking them on holidays goes - they're a bit like children when I want a holiday I go alone! Truthfully though, the pandemic has shown me how truly relaxing it can be just to stay home - and my cats love it!

 

[barbaranne]

I have been an animal lover all my life, and have been blessed with many wonderful pets in my lifetime so far, and have always wanted nothing but the best for them.

However, we should also consider the following.

If essential working animals, such as Assistance and Therapy dogs, must meet stringent training standards to enable them to travel with their owners to places such as shops, restaurants, and doctors, and on any public transport, including planes, surely we can understand that we should not expect any lesser standards for our domestic pets.