What ferret owners want, is actually pretty simple - we want to be able to board a commercial aircraft with our pet ferrets either under the seat, or as cargo just like like any other pet. Did you know that WestJet currently allows cats, dogs, rabbits, and birds to fly in the cabin? And additionally in cargo they allow chinchillas, hedgehogs, and guinea pigs? Air Canada also allows cats and dogs to be flown in the cabin, and as checked cargo
So why can't we take them with us? Well according to WestJet and Air Canada, they don't allow ferrets on board for fear of having a pet ferret escape and causing "rodent related damage" to the aircraft. Firstly, I shouldn't have to point out that ferrets are not capable of causing "rodent type damage" as they are not rodents - not even close, and secondly they have far less potential to escape than a cat or dog does.
In future posts, I will outline the rules and regulations surrounding ferrets that we hope will be adopted by major airlines in Canada, as well as the US. But for now, if you agree that ferrets should have the same flight options as other pets, you can contact WestJet and Air Canada and file a complaint both companies.
Thanks for your support!
