[dionidium]

While it's true that babies are annoying, I subscribe to the (now apparently radical) belief that human babies are in a category that grants them more rights than pets. Travelling with a baby is sometimes unavoidable (or, as in the case you mention, generates such an enormous personal benefit that it outweighs the inconvenience to your fellow passengers).

It is never necessary to fly with your dog uncaged in the main cabin. Ever. Full stop.

[waster]

Except for service dogs.

[dionidium]

You'll recall that the article we're all responding to -- and the entire point of this conversation -- discusses abuses of the service dog requirement.