My husband is in the United States Marine Corps, and every three years we have to move to a new city for his latest assignment. Three years ago we moved to Hawaii, thousands of miles away from our friends and family on the East Coast. Between the homesickness and loneliness, we decided to rescue a pit bull mix, Hoku, and a Staffordshire terrier mix, Anastasia, and we have been overjoyed with the companionship and love they bring to our lives.

We have learned we will be moving back to the East Coast in August, and are excited to move closer to our families. But we may not be able to bring our dogs back home because American Airlines has a breed discrimination policy.  

American Airlines is commonly used to fly military members and families between their assignments. Our American Airlines flights have already been booked, and as per military policy, we have to go with the airline that they have selected for us or else we pay for our travel out of pocket and do not get reimbursed. American Airlines enforces a strict set of guidelines for transporting pets: American Airlines does not allow “snub-nosed” dogs of any “mix” as checked luggage. This applies to pit bulls, among other kinds of dogs, and this blatant breed discrimination means our beloved pets may not be able to make the journey with us.

Recently, United Airlines opened up its pet transportation policy to include all breeds. I think it’s time for American Airlines to do the same. These dogs are our family, and they deserve to move with us. Join me in asking American Airlines to please allow all breeds to fly as checked luggage.