In the wake of the devastating wildfires in Fort McMurray, Alberta, which ravaged an area larger than Dallas, two airlines have taken a commendable step to support evacuees. Canadian North and Westjet have announced that they will permit passengers to travel with their pets without any additional fees.
As evacuation flights commenced this week, many residents had to leave their homes in a hurry, often without arrangements for their beloved pets. To address this urgent need, the airlines welcomed cats, dogs, and even a few bunnies, turtles, and tree frogs on board, allowing families to stay together during this challenging time.
Passengers have been sharing delightful photos on social media, showcasing their furry companions on the flights. One tweet noted a flight with 130 humans, five cats, nineteen dogs, and two turtles. In a particularly touching moment, Canadian North tweeted about a cat named Whiskers who found herself in the care of flight attendants after her owner went into labor during the evacuation. The staff even made her a special employee badge!
A spokesperson from Canadian North explained to the Huffington Post that under normal circumstances, the airline wouldn’t accommodate so many pets, but “given the extraordinary situation, we were able to adjust our policies to help these animals.” Both airlines have arranged for hundreds of additional flights to ensure that everyone, whether on two legs or four, can reach safety.
While this gesture is heartwarming, it’s essential to remember the hardship faced by many of these families. Over 80,000 individuals have had to evacuate Fort McMurray due to the fires, with reports indicating that more than 2,400 buildings, including homes, have been damaged or destroyed. The road to recovery will be long, but the compassion shown by these airlines highlights the willingness of individuals and organizations to lend a helping hand in times of crisis. Pets are indeed family, and it’s uplifting to see so many of them remain with their owners during such a tumultuous period.
If you’re interested in supporting those affected by the wildfires, consider making a donation to the Canadian Red Cross. For additional insights on home insemination, check out this blog post. And for reliable information on artificial insemination, visit this reputable source.
In summary, the response of Canadian North and Westjet to the Fort McMurray wildfires serves as a powerful reminder of community spirit and compassion during difficult times, allowing families to stay together with their pets.