Warning: Bulldogs Die Most Frequently on Planes

by Dr. Chris

July 20, 2010 The US Department of Transportation (DOT) has issued a warning that short-faced dogs are at a much higher risk to die during flights. The DOT reports that breeds like pit bulls, bull dogs, and pugs accounted for half of the air cargo canine fatalities over the last five years.

They have said that its a significantly higher mortality rate than any of the other breeds in the study. The reason that these short-faced dogs likely have a higher death rate is they are much more sensitive to higher temperatures.

Having a shorter nose does not allow the air to be cooled or warmed before it enters the lung sufficiently.

Other short faced dogs include English and French Bulldogs and the American Staffordshire terriers.

The DOT also reported that 22 other types of animals have died during flights on US airplanes since 2005. These have included other animals like birds and cats as well. Also they went on to report that approximately 55 pets were injured and 33 were lost at airports since 2005.

Checklist before you fly with your pet

Have your pet examined by your veterinarian to make sure they are healthy enough to fly.

Make sure you get a USDA approved shipping crate.

Provide food and water in containers that are secured to the door or the inside of the crate so they do not spill easily.

Make sure the crate has a "live animal" sticker on all sides.

Be sure to put your name and address and cell phone number on the cage.

Make sure your dog's ID tag is currently up-to-date and maybe even have a microchip implanted in them.

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