Dog death on a plane: man sues airline

San Francisco (USA) - A dog owner is inconsolable because his beloved bulldog had to die. He believes that the airline is hugely to blame for the death of his four-legged friend, which is why Michael Contillo has now filed a lawsuit against "Alaska Airlines".

At "Alaska Airlines", an owner had to switch to economy with his dogs, which had fatal consequences for one of the pelt-noses. (symbolic image)
At "Alaska Airlines", an owner had to switch to economy with his dogs, which had fatal consequences for one of the pelt-noses. (symbolic image)  © 123RF/unitysphere

Specifically, the US American is accusing the airline of breaching a ticket agreement, reports The Independent.

On February 1, the man was flying from New York to San Francisco, had his two pets Ash and Kora with him and was asked to move from first class to economy class.

The owner had wisely purchased two first class tickets so that the dogs could board early and have enough space on the plane.

Shortly before departure, however, the owner was asked to change seats. His objections that moving the dogs now would "make them anxious and excited" were simply brushed aside.

"Alaska Airlines": Dog owner disputes compensation with airline

A French bulldog suffered "mental stress" in the air and died above the clouds. (symbolic image)
A French bulldog suffered "mental stress" in the air and died above the clouds. (symbolic image)  © 123RF/anastas2018

When Contillo complied with the request, he noticed that his four-legged friend began to breathe "quickly and with noticeable anxiety".

However, the transport box had to be closed before the plane took off, so he was only able to check on his bulldog after a delay. Then came the shock! Contillo noticed that the dog was no longer moving.

On leaving the machine, both he and his father "began to cry" when they realized that the pet was no longer alive.

In his statement of claim, the man also stated that it felt hurtful that no member of the crew had "help or compassion" over the dead dog.

The dog's owner claims that his paw suffered "emotional distress" due to the airline's negligence and is demanding compensation. According to Costillo's lawyer, Alaska Airlines is said to have rejected an initial offer for a settlement.