Besides your checked bag (if you check one) will be waiting for you as soon as you walk into the baggage claim area.
I guess you were in the aisle next to it, and I'm sure whoever was in the window didn't even notice that. I had that experience once and my seat had no way to recline because I was at very back of the plane, the restroom was right behind me but I was next to the window and I didn't smell anything...
Some airlines are coming with a solution for all this subject.
There's also some extra storage room for a laptop or purse/murse under the seat.
The Russians did try to solve a similar issue of lack of restroom space for the Sochi Olympics.
http://www.eonline.com/eol_images/Entire_Site/201416/rs_560x415-140206122657-1024.sochi-olympics-toilet-bathroom-020614.jpg
I agree with you, I meant that example/suggestion (flying like a dog) for guys who don't want to deal with carry on, small seats, being rushed by other people or just dealing with them.
They should fly on a cage and be away from everybody else.
Yes, the other choice would be using priceline and leaving at 7 AM from NYC to make it to SF at 9 PM after spending 5 hours in an airport connecting. Personally I don't think it's worth it but it's the cheapest way to fly.
One more choice:
http://i.huffpost.com/gen/1485516/images/o-DOGS-AIRPLANES-facebook.jpg
I've only seen a flight attendant yelling about it to a passenger once about that precise subject but I'm sure they're watching!
http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lldjzdSYjR1qex40do1_500.gif