Factors Related to the Welfare of Animals During Transport by Commercial Aircraft

This report contains a brief history of the transportation of animals by air. It describes how various organizations contributed to the safe and humane care of animals during transport and how regulations to insure safer shipping conditions were developed by the United States Department of Agriculture. The two classes of cargo spaces in large aircraft used to transport small animals are discussed in relation to fire safety, environmental considerations and the possible health effects on animals during shipment. Also discussed are problems encountered in the airport terminal holding area, practical considerations in shipping dogs, and examples of animal losses. (Author)