Traveling with pets is becoming more and more common, but it's not always done responsibly. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has issued another important warning after an unusual incident.
At Miami International Airport, a female passenger was discovered trying to hide two live turtles... in her bra. The scene, although it may seem absurd, had serious consequences. One of the turtles didn't survive.
TSA allows pets, but with clear rules
Traveling with small animals like dogs, cats, or turtles isn't prohibited. TSA allows their transport, as long as established protocols are followed. However, hiding them in unsafe or unventilated places isn't just illegal, it's also cruel.
These actions can result in penalties and even intervention by wildlife authorities. The agency reminds that more than two million passengers go through their checkpoints every day and yes, they've seen it all. But cases like this put both the animals and the rest of the passengers at risk.
How should animals go through security?
Pets must be in approved and secure carriers and at the security checkpoint, they must be taken out of the carrier, but never go through the X-ray machine. Earlier this year, TSA already had to warn about this. Several owners put their animals through the baggage scanner, some by mistake, others on purpose.
There have also been cases of animals escaping. A cat was lost in the airport for hours before being rescued. Luckily, it returned to its owner unharmed.
The consequences of not following the rule
Hiding an animal can result in fines and legal proceedings. It doesn't matter if you claim ignorance: not following the rules has consequences. In addition, you could trigger emergency protocols and cause several agencies to intervene.
All because you didn't check the current regulations first. The responsible thing is to plan. Bring an appropriate carrier, properly identify your pet, and ask the staff if you have questions.
Safety for everyone
TSA has made efforts to speed up security checks. It's no longer necessary to remove your shoes and improvements are on the way, such as the possible elimination of the liquid limit. But all these improvements are pointless if passengers don't cooperate; taking care of your pet is also part of that commitment.
So, if you're going to fly with an animal, get informed before you pack. Remember: bras aren't a place for turtles.