July 17, 2010 - “Short faced” dog breeds such as pugs and bulldogs represent about half of the dogs that die while being transported by their owners as cargo (in the belly of the aircraft not in passenger cabin area), a significantly higher rate of mortality than for other dog breeds, according to data compiled by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT).

Since May 2005, U.S. airlines have been required by law to file monthly reports to DOT on incidents involving the death, injury or loss of pets during air transport. Data submitted to the Department disclose dog breeds.

During the last five years there have been 122 dog deaths, a number far exceeding the deaths of other pets, 22, and exceeding the number of pets reported lost or injured, 88.  The Department believes the number of dogs and other pets that die during flight is an extremely small percentage of the total number of pets carried each year by the airlines.

Your pet container must be small enough to fit underneath the seat without blocking any person's path to the main aisle of the airplane, container must be stowed properly before the last passenger entry door to the airplane is closed in order for the airplane to leave the gate. Your pet container must remain properly stowed the entire time the airplane is moving on the airport surface, and for take off and landing and you must follow flight attendant instructions regarding the proper stowage of your pet container.

If an airline allows you to travel with your pet in the cabin, you must follow all FAA regulations. Usually, most airlines have additional policies and procedures for you to follow to make sure that the flight is comfortable for all passengers on the airplane.