TAMPA, Fla. — Starting Monday, taking your pet along with you to pick up a family member or friend at Tampa International Airport will not be allowed.
The airport’s no-pet policy has been in place for decades, but airport officials say it is often ignored.
In February, airport officials started a campaign letting people know they’ll be strictly enforcing the rule.
Starting Monday, those who break the rules will have to pay penalties.
Airport officials say service animals are fine but when it comes to bringing your dog, cat, bird or any other animal to greet a loved one, friend or drop someone off, that’s what is not allowed. There are signs posted letting people know “No Pets Allowed”
Airport officials say people who break the rules will get warnings at first and then trespassing citations. We’re told the increased enforcement comes amid record growth.
Over the past two years, the airport says its paramedics, police and maintenance staff have been forced to make hundreds of cleanups. They’ve also responded to more than a dozen injuries to people and pets because of animals.
Airport leaders say this is all about passenger safety. This policy is also endorsed by the Humane Society of Tampa Bay, which offers relief areas for service animals.
They say this new policy will also prevent pets from being injured at the airport as well.
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