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Southwest Airlines Pet Policy: Everything You Need to Know

Traveling with your furry friends can be a joyful experience, but understanding airline rules is essential to ensure a smooth trip. Southwest Airlines, one of the most popular domestic carriers in the United States, has a specific pet policy designed to make traveling with small pets convenient and safe. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the Southwest Airlines Pet Policy — from eligibility and carrier requirements to fees and service animal rules.

What Pets Are Allowed on Southwest Airlines?

Southwest Airlines allows only small domestic cats and dogs to travel in the cabin with passengers. Larger pets or other animals are not permitted to fly with Southwest. This policy is common among many airlines to ensure passenger safety and comfort, as well as to meet federal regulations.

In-Cabin Travel Requirements

Under the Southwest Airlines Pet Policy, your pet must travel inside an approved carrier that fits comfortably under the seat in front of you. This means pets cannot occupy a seat and must remain in their carrier for the duration of the flight. The carrier acts as your pet’s travel space, offering security and minimizing disruption to other passengers.

Carrier Specifications

The pet carrier is a crucial part of Southwest’s pet travel rules. To comply with the Southwest Airlines Pet Policy, your carrier must:

• Be airline-approved and designed specifically for pet travel.
• Fit under the seat in front of you. The maximum recommended dimensions are generally around 18.5" long x 8.5" high x 13.5" wide, but you should verify the size based on your aircraft.
• Be leak-proof and well-ventilated.
• Provide enough room for your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.

Soft-sided carriers are typically preferred for in-cabin travel because they are flexible and easier to fit under seats.

Number of Pets Allowed Per Passenger

Southwest Airlines allows one pet carrier per passenger, and each carrier may hold up to two pets of the same species, provided the carrier size is sufficient. This is a generous allowance compared to some other airlines, but keep in mind that each passenger must pay a pet fee per carrier.

Pet Fees and Reservations

There is a non-refundable fee for traveling with pets on Southwest Airlines. As per the Southwest Airlines Pet Policy, the current pet fee is $95 per carrier each way. This fee is paid at check-in or during the booking process.

Because space for pets in the cabin is limited, Southwest Airlines requires reservations for pets in advance. Pet spots are limited to six per flight and are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. It’s highly recommended to book your pet’s spot as early as possible to secure their place on your flight.

Pets Not Allowed in Cargo or Checked Baggage

Unlike some airlines that allow pets to travel in cargo compartments or checked baggage, Southwest Airlines strictly prohibits this. The Southwest Airlines Pet Policy states that pets may only travel in the cabin and must be with their owners at all times during the flight.

This policy enhances pet safety by avoiding stressful or hazardous cargo holds. However, it also means that larger pets, which cannot fit in carriers under the seat, cannot fly with Southwest.

Service Animals and Emotional Support Animals

Southwest Airlines differentiates between pets and service animals. Service animals trained to perform specific tasks for people with disabilities are allowed to accompany passengers in the cabin at no charge, separate from the pet policy.

Due to changes in regulations by the U.S. Department of Transportation, Southwest no longer recognizes emotional support animals as service animals. Emotional support animals must now follow the standard Southwest Airlines Pet Policy, meaning they must travel in an approved carrier and pay the applicable pet fee.

Preparing for Travel: Tips and Recommendations

To ensure your trip goes smoothly, consider the following tips aligned with the Southwest Airlines Pet Policy:

• Health and Vaccination: Make sure your pet is healthy and up to date on vaccinations. Carry a copy of vaccination records, especially if traveling across state lines.
• Familiarize Your Pet with the Carrier: Help your pet get comfortable with their travel carrier well before the trip. This reduces anxiety during the flight.
• Arrival at the Airport: Arrive early to allow ample time for pet check-in and any necessary documentation.
• Pet Comfort: Bring absorbent pads inside the carrier, especially for longer flights. Avoid feeding your pet a heavy meal right before travel.
• Hydration: Offer water to keep your pet hydrated, but avoid overfeeding to prevent accidents.
• Identification: Ensure your pet wears an ID tag with your contact information, and the carrier should also be labeled.

Restrictions and Important Considerations

While Southwest Airlines strives to accommodate pet owners, certain restrictions apply under the Southwest Airlines Pet Policy:

• Pets showing signs of illness or aggression may be denied boarding.
• Pets must remain in the carrier throughout the flight.
• Passengers with pet allergies should be aware that pets are allowed onboard, which may affect their comfort.
• Southwest reserves the right to refuse transport of any pet not meeting their requirements.

International Travel with Pets

Southwest Airlines primarily operates domestic flights within the United States. For international flights, the pet policy may vary or may not apply, as Southwest does not currently operate many international routes. Always check the specific requirements if your itinerary includes international segments or partner airlines.

How to Book Your Pet’s Spot on Southwest Airlines

Booking a flight for yourself and your pet with Southwest is straightforward but requires attention:

1. Book your flight on Southwest.com or via the Southwest mobile app.
2. Contact Southwest Airlines Reservations by phone to add your pet to the reservation. Pets cannot be added online.
3. Pay the pet fee during check-in or over the phone when adding your pet.
4. Confirm the carrier meets all Southwest Airlines Pet Policy requirements.
5. Arrive early at the airport with your pet carrier and necessary documentation.

Summary

The Southwest Airlines Pet Policy is designed to allow pet owners to travel with their small cats and dogs safely and comfortably in the cabin. Key highlights include the requirement for an approved carrier, a pet fee of $95 each way, limited pet spots per flight, and no pets allowed in cargo. Service animals have different rules and do not require a fee.

By understanding and following these policies, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free journey for both you and your pet when flying Southwest Airlines.