A Cuban traveler expressed her gratitude towards Viva Aerobus for facilitating a successful journey from Cuba to Mexico with her pet, who accompanied her as an emotional support animal. Tania Moya shared her experience on Facebook, calling it a "complete success" and noting the absence of any issues during the flight.
"I'm so thankful that it's now possible to bring a dog on board as a companion, just by meeting all the required criteria," remarked Moya, expressing her satisfaction with the service provided by the airline. This option, allowing passengers to travel with their pets in the cabin by adhering to the airline's regulations, represents a significant step forward for those who rely on their animals for emotional support.
Traveling with Pets: Viva Aerobus Guidelines
According to Viva Aerobus' website, dogs and cats meeting specific requirements can accompany their owners in the cabin. The maximum allowed weight for pets traveling in the cabin, including the carrier, is 12 kg. The carrier itself should not exceed 44 cm in length, 35 cm in width, and 21 cm in height, ensuring the pet can stand and turn around comfortably inside.
The carrier can be made of rigid or semi-rigid material to ensure safety during the flight. Only cats and dogs, at least eight weeks old, are permitted. The airline also recommends placing absorbent padding inside the carrier to prevent spills and advises against sedating the pet without a veterinarian's approval. It's important to feed the pet regularly and offer small snacks before the flight, while ensuring the pet exercises and hydrates before boarding.
The Emotional Bond: Pets and Their Owners
While some Cubans leave their pets behind when emigrating, others strive to keep their beloved animals by their side, doing everything possible to reunite with them or take them along on their journey. A touching reunion occurred when a dog named Kiara finally met her owners in Spain after waiting five years to be reunited, leaving behind a long separation.
This heartwarming moment was shared on TikTok by the pet transportation service Pet Cuba Travel: "After so many years, Kiara never forgot them, and her wagging tail shows the immense joy she felt to be back with them." A similar emotional reunion involved a young Cuban man and his dog in Miami, a story that went viral on social media.
Dante, a white Labrador, was left behind in Cuba when his owner emigrated to Miami, Florida. Nevertheless, his owner never forgot him and fought tirelessly to bring Dante to his new home in the United States.