During a recent government meeting, significant concerns were raised regarding the impact of cabotage laws on both pet transportation and the emotional well-being of families in the Marianas Islands. Lauren Cabrera, president of Guam Animals in Need (GAIN) and founder of the Booney Flight Project, highlighted the challenges faced by families relocating from the islands.

Cabrera noted that the high costs associated with transporting pets—up to $1,000 per animal through chartered airlines—are forcing many families to surrender their pets. Alarmingly, she reported that 40% of pets surrendered to GAIN are due to families moving off-island, leading to an increase in the stray pet population and the tragic euthanization of animals that cannot be relocated.

The discussion underscored the emotional toll on families who are already grieving the loss of loved ones, as they are often unable to bring their pets with them during relocations. Cabrera emphasized the need for more humane and affordable solutions to pet transportation, arguing that families should not have to face exorbitant fees to keep their pets or to say a final goodbye to them.

The meeting highlighted the urgent need for policy changes to address these issues, as the current regulations not only affect the welfare of animals but also add to the grief of families during difficult transitions.