By Miriam Raftery
March 21, 2018 (San Diego) - United Airlines is taking heat after a series of problems transporting pets, including several dogs shipped to the wrong location and a dog that died after a flight attendant insisted that it be placed in an overhead carrier bin.
Last year, United had the highest number of pet deaths of any airline, accounting for 18 of the 24 pets that died in transit among all airlines. United also ships more pets than other carriers, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation.
This week, the airline announced it will no longer accept new reservations for customers wishing to ship animals in cargo compartments, though it will honor bookings already made, or assist anyone wishing to cancel to do so.
Travelers may still bring appropriate pets on carriers in the cabin, and any pet carriers will now be identified with bright colored tags.
United indicates it will be conducting a review of its policies to make improvements to its pet transport program, a process that is expected to be completed by May 1st.
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