The TSA has seen strange things, very strange things at their security checkpoints, but what happened the other day at Miami International Airport left us speechless. A female passenger decided to hide two live turtles in her bra to get them through security (yes, our reaction was the same). Of course, she didn’t think she would get caught (literally, only she thought that). And no, the situation didn’t end well, one of the animals didn’t survive the adventure and the outrage quickly went viral.
Yes, pets can travel, but they need a safe space that doesn’t put their safety or wellbeing at risk… and above all, it has to be done legally.
The TSA screens more than two million passengers daily at their checkpoints, and they’re constantly reviewing their protocols to improve both safety and passenger comfort, but then people show up with turtles hidden in their bras and put everything at risk.
What does the TSA say about animals?
The Transportation Security Administration has made it clear on their social media that it’s not forbidden to travel with small animals, like turtles, cats or dogs, as long as the established procedures are followed. Pretty normal, right? What is completely forbidden is hiding them in unconventional or unsafe places, like inside clothing or a suitcase with no ventilation.
How should animals go through the security checkpoint?
Animals must be taken out of their carriers during screening, and they must never go through the X-ray machine. Earlier this year, the TSA already had to issue another warning about this topic, after detecting several cases where owners accidentally (or on purpose) sent their pets through the baggage scanner…
The case of the turtles in Miami is not an isolated one. Not long ago, a cat escaped during a security check and wandered through part of the airport before being caught by TSA agents. Fortunately, it was safely returned to its owner. It might sound funny, but it shows a complete lack of control over our pets and how irresponsible some people can be with them…
Has the TSA process improved overall?
Well, nobody likes security checks, but the TSA is doing the best it can given its role. They’ve implemented improvements and more are on the way. For example, you no longer have to take off your shoes, and there are rumors that the 100 ml rule may soon come to an end. So, even if we don’t like having to go through checkpoints, we know it’s necessary for our safety and that of all passengers.
Priority: safety for everyone
Any improvement by the TSA only makes sense if it continues to work for the safety of passengers, animals, and staff. So, as users, it costs us nothing to check the rules before packing our bags… and above all, not to put turtles in our bras or suitcases. Who would want to put their pets at risk?
What happens if you break these rules?
Cases like the turtles may lead to legal penalties, in addition to triggering protocols with agencies like the Department of Wildlife. Simply not knowing the rules doesn’t exempt you from responsibility, that’s basic! Bringing your pet properly identified, in an approved carrier and following the officers’ instructions will prevent any incidents.
Traveling with animals requires planning, respect, and common sense. We don’t just want to get through security, we want our pets to have a calm and safe journey, and above all, to arrive at their destination. If you’re going to fly with a pet on your next trip, don’t forget to check the rules, and please, don’t put any animals in your bra.
