British Airways has suspended its service allowing passengers to carry dogs in the cargo hold on its flights after a pet was reported to have travelled in a crate deemed 'too small'.
The airline has put the the measure in place temporarily while an investigation is carried out into the potential rule breach after the dog was discovered in the container after a flight arrived at London Heathrow.
Passengers are charged up to £700 to transport pets, and customers supply their own crates and boxes which are subject to rules regarding size for each animal.
Neither the breed of dog or size of its container were disclosed, but a source told The Sun the breach was 'obviously something serious' considering the move from British Airways to put a temporary halt all dog cargo.
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It's been reported that qualifying assistance and emotional support dogs will still be allowed to travel with passengers in the cabin.
A BA spokesperson said: "We take the responsibility of transporting and caring for animals travelling with us extremely seriously.
"We have temporarily suspended bookings pending our investigation."
The airline added that passengers are usually responsible for suppling their animal's crates, unless they book through an agent, which will then provide the container.
It stated travellers are given clear information on the size requirements, based on standards set by IATA's (International Air Transport Association) Live Animal Regulations.
BA said: "All animals are thoroughly checked as soon as they land, and we have not had any reports of any animals/dogs suffering distress as a result of the size of their cage.
"We maintain a collaborative relationship with the ARC (Animal Reception Centre) who check all animals upon arrival and provide feedback should any irregularities be found. "
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