Peter Greenberg: Pet Dander in Airplanes

By: Peter Greenberg | Source: AARP.org

I am very concerned about passengers who travel with pets. Is the airline obligated to change my seat if I happen to end up with a seat next to someone with a dog in one of those pet carry-on bags? I am not a pet lover, and I am allergic to pet dander.
–Brenda, Silver Spring, Md.

If you need a pet-free plane, the first place to start is with reservations: Ask if there’s a pet booked in the cabin. When you get to the gate, ask the airline rep again if there are any pets listed in the cabin, and ask where they’re seated. Then advise the gate agent of your condition and figure out if they’re nearby. If they are, ask to be moved as far away as possible.

The processing of air inside the airplane also matters. Cabin air is recycled air. But how much is recycled, and how often is it recycled?

According to many allergists, the bigger problem can be pet dander on the pet owner, as opposed on to the pet itself. While pets are generally confined to the interior of a pet carrier, their owners will move around much more, expelling pet dander from their clothing into the air. And why is this important?

Because you may have an allergic reaction, even if there isn’t a pet on the plane. Basically, the person sitting next to you may have left Fluffy at home, but Fluffy left a load of pet dander on that person’s clothing. This can be especially tough during the winter, when people wear heavy coats that they don’t wash very often (at least, not as often as they wash their clothing).

The bottom line is that you need to take responsibility for your own allergies. Remember, flying is akin to being trapped in a tin box with dozens or hundreds of other people for hours on end. There’s only so much that can be done by airline personnel in this situation.

Over-the-counter medications, or a doctor’s prescription, are available and can prevent allergic reactions. Make sure you bring along the appropriate medications, and if your allergies are severe, consult a doctor before making the decision to fly.