Pets On Planes Campaign Wraps Up After Thousands Call For Action

Main Category: Respiratory / Asthma
Also Included In: COPD;  Lung Cancer;  Veterinary
Article Date: 09 Sep 2009 - 2:00 PDT

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The Lung Association released the following statement with regards to their campaign to ban pets on board airplanes:

"Since July 2009, thousands of Canadians from across the country have joined our campaign to ensure pet-free flights from Canada's major airlines. While Air Canada and WestJet continue to be uninterested in protecting the health of those with asthma, COPD, lung cancer and severe pet allergies, the House of Commons Standing Committee on Health has heard the concerns expressed. Committee Vice-Chairs Joyce Murray (L-BC) and Judy Wasylycia-Leis (NDP-MB) have agreed to move this issue forward when the Standing Committee resumes sitting next week.

Unfortunately, the voices of thousands of Canadians could not sway Committee Chair Joy Smith. However, we are confident that once hearings are called on this issue, she will see the public health merits in taking action to protect air passengers and crew who suffer from asthma, COPD, lung cancer and severe pet allergies. Ms. Smith has previously committed to being a strong ally in the fight to improve lung health in Canada, and this issue provides her with an opportunity to demonstrate that.

The Lung Association thanks all those Canadians who took part in this important public health effort. You made your voices count and we thank each of you for doing so."

Source
The Lung Association