United Airlines Bans Certain Breeds of Dogs on Their Flights

Pit Bulls (pictured) are one of the dog breeds United Airlines is banning on their flights

United Airlines has updated their animal travel policy and as result they have banned 9 different breeds of dogs based on ‘previous transport-related situations.’:

‘Mary Ryan, a United spokesperson, said her company adopted the policy, which was in effect at Continental Airlines, when the two airlines merged recently. She said the breed restriction was never an issue for Continental.’

The list of breeds that are banned are:

1.American Staffordshire Terrier
2.Ca de Bou
3.Cane Corso
4.Dogo Argentino
5.Fila Brasileiro
6.Perro de Presa Canario
7.Pit Bull Terrier
8.Presa Canario
9.Tosa Ken.

The animal community has reacted swiftly with petitions on change.org and another on ‘Team Pit-a-ful‘.

Team Pit-a-ful’s leader David Edelstein made a statement regarding United’s policy:

“We neither endorse nor support businesses that discriminate against breeds of dogs based on appearance or public stigma. In our opinion, it is obvious that United Airlines was put in a position by their (most likely, small breed) customers to take a stand on policy for transporting certain large, muscular, broad jawline type breeds. The vilified breed lost, while the all mighty dollar won, again.”

A statement from United reads:

“United does not accept certain breeds of dogs based on previous transport-related situations. Determination of breed, age or weight of the animal is to be confirmed by the animal’s Health Certificate (dated within 10 days of transport). Additionally, United reserves the right to refuse any animal that displays aggression of viciousness at the time of tender. Travelers can find more information on restricted breeds on united.com.”

I don’t get it. Am I missing something here? Dogs have to travel in cages right?? Are the cages not working? If that’s the case (I seriously doubt it is) then up the requirements for cages for pete’s sake! It ain’t that difficult United!

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