It seems that Air Canada is attempting to increase its ridership by making pet-friendly overtures in the newspapers.
In truth, my niece travelled from Ontario to BC more than 15 years ago, with her cat under her seat. It was an accepted practise 'way back then.
I must admit, I was concerned for passengers with allergies, but that was obviously of no consequence for the airline at that time.
I guess they've now relegated the animals to the back of the plane in order to appease their fellow passengers.