The UK government has responded to a petition about changing cabin rules for pets on planes like British Airways and easyJet. The petition has over 14,000 signatures.

Campaigners want people to be able to take small pets on planes entering the UK. They want airlines to offer in-cabin travel options for small pets.

Many countries allow small pets to travel in cabins, but the UK requires them to travel in cargo. This can be stressful and expensive for pet owners.

Currently, pets are not allowed in plane cabins in the UK, except for service dogs. They must travel in the hold or on approved routes.

The UK government says pets must be checked for diseases and this is hard to do if they are in the cabin. Most pets must travel in the hold.

The government wants to keep the UK safe from diseases and protect animal welfare. It understands that pet owners want to travel with their pets, but this must be balanced with disease controls.

The government is concerned about importing diseases like rabies. All pets entering the UK must be checked for health and documentary requirements.

Pets must be checked at airports, which is hard to do if they are in the cabin. Airports have complex operations and must consider other border controls.

The government thinks the current rules for pet travel are working and keep the UK safe from diseases.

To sign the petition and read the government's full response, click here.