My mother-in-law has journeyed with her pet dutifully for the last eight years, ensuring she meets all necessary travel regulations. Now, for reasons unbeknownst to us, she is being denied the ability to purchase a plane ticket for the pet who has been her cherished companion on these trips. This situation prompted me to bring into focus an unnoticed issue affecting many other pet owners besides us.

The current system of international pet travel is far from perfect. It can be confusing and inconsistent, causing undue stress to responsible pet owners who wish to comply fully with the rules. This is concerning because an estimated 68% of U.S. households own a pet and many of these pet owners are frequent international travelers (according to the 2019-2020 National Pet Owners Survey conducted by the American Pet Products Association).

Our demand is simple: we need a more clear-cut, uncomplicated process for compliant pet owners that wish to travel internationally with their pets. A system that respects the bond between a human being and their pet. After all, these pets are more than just animals; they're family.

This is not just about my mother-in-law's pet. This is for all pets and their owners who deserve to travel with the least possible hindrances while ensuring safety and wellbeing for everyone. Stand up for the rights of responsible pet owners. Please sign the petition to simplify international pet travel regulations for compliant pet owners.