It's bad news for pet owners hoping to travel with their furry friends this
year. Air Canada has decided to stop allowing pets on board its aircraft as
checked luggage as of July 15. At this point the restriction would only
apply to domestic flights but the carrier hoped to extend that to U.S. and
international flights soon as long as it receives Canadian Transportation
Agency permission to do so.
Instead, pets would have to travel through Air Canada's cargo division, AC
Live Product service. Previous reservations will still be honoured.

The reason for the new restriction is because the airplanes require the
extra room for luggage, according to a spokesperson for the Montreal-based
company. Last fall Air Canada decided not to allow pets other than
specialized guide dogs in the cabin over allergy concerns.

The policy hasn't changed at WestJet, where pets are still allowed both in
the cabin and as checked luggage. The only time that rule changes is during
extra-busy times of year like Christmas. The Calgary carrier charges $50 per
pet, per trip.