The sole representative of the People-Animals-Nature Party (PAN), Inês de Sousa Real, plans to submit a bill to parliament aimed at regulating the air transport of animals, proposing a ban on the “transport of pets in aircraft holds, except in emergency situations”.
The initiative also states that “airlines should allow pets to be transported in the cabin, using carriers that ensure safety and comfort and can be securely stowed”, as detailed in the document accessed by Lusa.
The party argues that airlines should offer “alternatives for safe transportation of animals in the cabin, taking into account the size, weight, and characteristics” of each pet. In cases where transport in the hold is “absolutely necessary,” the party demands airlines ensure “continuous monitoring systems to check the animal’s condition during the flight,” mechanisms for “quick intervention in emergencies,” and the “ability to immediately inform the owner of any adverse situations that may occur with the animal during the flight.”
PAN hosted today in parliament Teddy, a service dog for a 12-year-old autistic child, who was prevented from traveling in the cabin on a TAP flight from Brazil to Portugal. The dog was separated from the girl for nearly two months, arriving in Portugal at the end of May.
Inês de Sousa Real spoke with the family, presenting them with the initiative, which she named the ‘Teddy Law.’
During a press briefing, the deputy argued that “animals are not merchandise, and it makes no sense that there isn’t regulation allowing families, particularly those with service dogs, including emotional support animals, to travel with them in the cabin”.
She noted that the Civil Code “recognizes animals as living beings endowed with sensitivity” and that this year marks the 30th anniversary of the animal protection law.
She suggested that legislation should also allow “all pets, in a regulated manner, with rules, hygiene, and safety for all passengers and the animals themselves, to travel in the cabin with their owners.”
“This is a matter of sensitivity and empathy,” she asserted, urging other parties to “vote in favor of this initiative, enabling pets not to be treated like cargo and families like Alice’s to travel safely and with the emotional stability such situations require.”
Renato Sá, the girl’s father, thanked Inês de Sousa Real for the attention given to the case and expressed his emotion.
Speaking to reporters, he expressed his happiness and high hopes that other children and adults could benefit from this law.
Renato Sá also called for the bill to be unanimously approved.
“I believe this proposal is a cross-party issue, not about government or opposition; it’s a necessity, a right for people with disabilities. I can’t imagine any deputy opposing such an initiative,” he stated.
