Flying with Pets: Protecting Veterinary Integrity and Animal Welfare

In response to FSANZ’s consultation on allowing companion cats and dogs in aircraft cabins, the AVA has highlighted key professional and welfare concerns. We have urged that veterinarians should not be required to issue "fit to fly" certificates, but instead provide a health examination report outlining an animal’s condition at the time of assessment. We also raised animal welfare concerns about the proposed prohibition on opening carriers during flights. The AVA recommends controlled flexibility to intervene in emergencies to safeguard animal welfare. Our submission aims to balance public health, veterinary professional standards, and animal welfare.
Learn more about our FSANZ submission here.