Why should animals not generally be sedated for air travel?

Sedating animals for air travel poses significant risks, particularly regarding respiratory health. When an animal is sedated, their respiratory rate and response to changes in oxygen levels can be adversely affected. This is especially critical in the enclosed, pressurized environment of an aircraft, where air quality may vary and animals may face varying levels of stress. Sedation can impair an animal's ability to adjust to these conditions, making them more susceptible to respiratory issues, which can escalate quickly in confined spaces and potentially lead to serious health complications.

Additionally, other considerations about sedation include its potential to complicate the transportation process and its impact on the animal's physical condition, but the primary concern during air travel is the enhanced risk to respiratory function. This underscores the importance of keeping animals alert and responsive to their environment during transportation to ensure their safety and well-being.