Image credits: Reproduction @_gfanta
Joca, a 5-year-old golden retriever, died during a trip from São Paulo to Sinop, in Mato Grosso, after being sent to the wrong airport, in Ceará, and transported in the hold of the aircraft
Gol Linhas Aéreas temporarily suspended the transport of dogs and cats in the holds of its aircraft after the tragic death of the dog Joca, a golden retriever. This event generated commotion on social media and led the company to take immediate measures to investigate the incident and ensure the safety of pets transported on its flights.
Joca, a 5-year-old golden retriever, died during a trip from São Paulo to Sinop, in Mato Grosso, after being sent to the wrong airport, in Ceará, and transported in the aircraft’s hold. The exact cause of death is still under investigation, with a preliminary report indicating “cardiorespiratory arrest with the cause yet to be clarified”. A video viral on social media showed the dog’s owner next to him, now deceased, at the Guarulhos cargo terminal, in São Paulo.
Family accuses Gol of negligence
Marcia Martin, mother of João Fantazzini, the animal’s owner, says that the company did not call any veterinarian to evaluate the dog. The family also says that Joca would have been left inside the kennel, on the track, in the sun.
“Look here, my son’s dog, he left to go to Sinop, an irresponsible person sent him to Fortaleza, not happy, they sent him back without any evaluation from a veterinarian, the dog is in here, dead. They killed a 4-year-old Golden”, declared Marcia Martin.
Measures adopted by the airline
In response to the incident, Gol suspended the transport of dogs and cats in the holds of its aircraft for 30 days. There will be no change for customers who take their pets in the plane cabin.
Instructions for passengers
Customers who had already contracted the transportation of their pets through GOLLOG Animals during the suspension period will be able to request a full refund. Gol offers the option of rescheduling the trip at no cost for after the end of the suspension, with a deadline of December 31st this year. Passengers who need to travel during the suspension period must contact the company to resolve the issue on 0800 704 0465.
