It is unfortunate that an airline trying to be a good corporate citizen has come under fire from a small group of people. The program accomplishes some tremendous benefits;
- It boosts employee morale and is an effective means of facilitating teamwork. The employees are proud of what hey are doing. It is far more cost effective than hiring the motivational speakers some airlines do.
- An excellent PR opportunity that builds the brand image for a cost less than splashy advertisements.
- It recognizes a potent demographic. People who have companion animals and who take the subject to heart have been identified as having higher disposable income. This translates into consumer choice when purchasing in the leisure travel market. The ethical purchasing consumer demographic is well documented and these people are willing to pay more to support companies they believe are "good".

I too have flown out of the airport in question. The lines can be long, customs slow and the atmosphere stifling. I note the comments from some saying they prefer to pick their own charities, Ok. well here's an option, pick another airline. AA will not suffer if these people go elsewhere as AA is the primary airline for that route. I doubt this would have an impact on other routes as these PAX are flying AA for specific reasons such as price and schedule. I find it more annoying to be caught behind people who have multiple bags and special needs or the obnoxious FFs who treat the checkin agent as a personal concierge to deal with other ticketing issues. I don't complain and accept this as part and parcel of flying into a small airport.

In any case, AA was doing the right thing with this program and should continue doing so. The positive impact upon the brand and the overall benefits to the community outweigh the grumbling a few pax.