I found this report on Google; the owner did not disclose the results of the autopsy. I wonder if the case was dropped.

As flying is said to be safer than driving, I would take my cats on an aircraft. On http://www.i-pets.com/rpet4.html: "A poll taken by the Travel Industry Association in 2001 showed that about 29 million Americans traveled with their pets in the previous three years." And that's WITH their hoomins - not in a carrier in the usual compartment.

There was another report on Google of a small dog who had died due to poor lung capacity and complications of obesity. Two other dogs in the same compartment were fine. One never knows...I guess making sure your pet is healthy enough to fly is a good idea. And not feeding them before the flight.

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Date and Time of the Incident
06AUG05 at 1205CDT

Description of the Animal, Including Name
Brown and White English Bulldog, 2 y/o, 64L with the name of 'Willie'

Narrative Description of Incident
Two dogs arrived off flight from JFK. One dog died shortly after arrival in SFO. Kennel had vomit on floor area and dog was observed to be breathing shallowly. Animal died shortly thereafter.

Narrative Description of Cause of the Incident
Dog was sent for an autopsy. Cause of death could not be determined as customer will not share the results with American Airlines.

Narrative Description of any Corrective Action Taken in Response to Incident
None, as the cause of death could not be determined, and the investigation revealed all policies and procedures were followed.