<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by hbtraveler:
i still think they need to disclose the fact there will be a pet on board and then either re-accomodate the pet or the passenger with the allergies. No one should have to suffer. This is an issue about disclosure.</font>
I think everyone here is saying that they do disclose, but you just have to ask. Ask the gate attendant or, if necessary, the captain before takeoff.
I travel with my dog all the time in cabin(see my handle), but I'm very sympathetic to your situation. From the pet side, it's important to note that many US airlines no longer transport animals as luggage because there have been too many deaths. To put your pet in the hold now requires expensive cargo fees, and you can't be guaranteed what flight your pet will fly on. And there is still no guarantee of safety.
Nevertheless, I don't think it is fair to make the allergic passenger switch airplanes, unless that is their choice. So I think the allergic passenger should be offered the following choices -
1) First class upgrade, with the pet moved to a section that makes sense (maybe in the back, but maybe not based on the design of the vent system)
OR
2) Pet and companions change flights (at no charge).
OR
3) Allergic passenger and companions change flights (at no charge).
Option 1 is awfully unlikely, at least in today's climate.
Option 2 might force an unscheduled overnight by the pet and family, but I still think it is fairest -- and if it becomes policy, pet owners should encouraged to book flights early in the day.
Finally, remember that you can always appeal your case to the captain, who has full authority to implement any of the above options. But be careful in your presentation, because they could just go for option 3!
[This message has been edited by Rut Dog (edited 10-08-2002).]