Traveling with pets can be a wonderful experience, but it requires a bit of planning and understanding of airline policies. Southwest Airlines is a popular choice for pet owners, thanks to its accommodating and pet-friendly policies. If you’re planning to fly with your furry companion, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the Southwest Airlines pet policy to ensure a smooth journey. In this blog, we will walk you through everything you need to know about traveling with pets on Southwest flights, including their pet carrier requirements, fees, and guidelines for emotional support animals and service dogs.
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Why Choose Southwest Airlines for Traveling with Pets?
Southwest Airlines is a popular choice for pet owners for several reasons. One of the main advantages is that the airline allows small pets to travel in the cabin on both domestic flights and flights to the Hawaiian Islands. Unlike many other airlines, Southwest makes it easier for your furry companion to fly with you, thanks to their flexible policies.
Southwest Airlines’ pet policy is straightforward and budget-friendly. For a pet fare of just $95 each way, pets can travel in the cabin, stowed under the seat in front of you. This makes it one of the most affordable options for those looking to take their furry friend on vacation or business trips. Moreover, Southwest accepts only one pet carrier per passenger, so you can be sure your pet will have enough space.
Southwest Airlines Pet Policy Overview
Before you book your southwest flight with your pet, it’s essential to review the detailed pet policy. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know:
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Pet Carrier Requirements: Southwest Airlines has specific guidelines for carriers. Pets must be kept in an approved pet carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. The carrier requirements include maximum dimensions (typically 17 inches long, 9.5 inches high, and 10 inches wide), ensuring that your pet is comfortable during the flight. The carrier must be leak proof and well ventilated, offering ample airflow for your pet.
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Pet Types Allowed: Southwest Airlines only allows vaccinated domestic cats and dogs to travel in the cabin. If you have a different type of pet, you may not be able to bring them along. Pets must also be in a carrier that fits comfortably under the seat. Pets allowed on Southwest are generally those that fit within these size constraints and are calm during the flight.
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Space Limitations: Southwest Airlines allows only a limited number of pets per flight—six pets per flight. This means that pets traveling on a first come, first served basis. If you plan on traveling with your pet, be sure to book their reservation well in advance to secure a spot. If your pet is traveling in the cabin, they must remain in their carrier for the duration of the flight.
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Pet Fare: The pet fee for traveling with a pet on a Southwest flight is $95 each way. This fee covers your pet's travel in the cabin under the seat in front of you. The pet fare is a fixed cost, making it easy to calculate the cost of bringing your pet with you. Keep in mind that if you’re traveling with more than one pet, you will need to pay the pet fee for each pet.
Traveling with Service Animals and Emotional Support Animals
Southwest Airlines is known for its accommodating policies regarding service animals and emotional support animals. The airline makes a clear distinction between these two types of animals, with different rules for each:
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Trained Service Animals: Southwest Airlines accepts only trained service animals on their flights. These trained service animals must be under the control of their handler at all times and are allowed to travel with their owner on the floor of the cabin. Service animals do not need to be in a pet carrier, but they must stay on the floor and remain seated during the flight.
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Emotional Support Animals: As of recent changes, Southwest Airlines no longer recognizes emotional support animals as service animals. These animals must now adhere to the same regulations as pets. They must travel in a pet carrier that fits under the seat, and they are subject to the same pet fare and carrier requirements as other pets.
How to Book Your Pet’s Travel with Southwest Airlines
Booking your pet’s travel with Southwest Airlines is simple, but it’s important to follow the proper steps to ensure that everything goes smoothly:
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Reserve Your Pet’s Spot in Advance: Southwest Airlines allows a limited number of pets per flight, so it’s best to book your pet’s reservation early to ensure there’s space. You can add your pet to your reservation either online or by calling the customer service agent.
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Pay the Pet Fare: When you book your flight, you will need to pay the pet fee for your pet. This fee covers the cost of your pet’s travel in the cabin, and it must be paid at the time of booking.
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Check-in at the Airport: When you arrive at the airport, go to the ticket counter to check in your pet. Ensure you arrive early enough to allow time for any required paperwork, such as a health certificate from your veterinarian. If you’ve already reserved your pet’s spot, check-in will be quick and easy.
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Pet Travel Documentation: For certain destinations, especially international flights, Southwest Airlines may require a health certificate for your pet. This document certifies that your pet is fit for travel and has the necessary vaccinations, such as a rabies vaccination. Always check the specific requirements for your destination.
What to Expect at the Airport and In-Flight When Pets Fly on Southwest Airlines
When traveling with a pet on a Southwest flight, being prepared for airport procedures and in-flight rules ensures a smooth experience for both you and your furry friend.
At the Airport
Upon arrival, head to the ticket counter to check in your pet. Let the customer service agent know you’re flying with a pet under the Southwest Airlines pet policy. Since the airline accepts pets on a first come, first served basis, it’s crucial to arrive early to avoid space limitations—only six pet carriers are allowed per flight.
At the security checkpoint, you’ll need to remove your pet from its carrier while it goes through the X-ray machine. Your pet must stay leashed and under control. This is especially important for small pets like vaccinated domestic cats and dogs, which must stay calm in unfamiliar environments.
During the Flight
Onboard, your pet must remain in a leak-proof, well-ventilated carrier that fits entirely under the seat in front of you. The carrier requirements are strict, with maximum dimensions of 17” x 10” x 9.5”. This carry-on item counts as your personal item, so plan accordingly if you're bringing additional baggage.
All pets traveling in the cabin must remain in their carriers for the entire flight. Disruptive behavior, such as loud barking or aggression, may lead to removal from the cabin, as the airline prioritizes the comfort of other passengers.
For service animals, only trained service animals are permitted outside of a carrier. These animals must remain seated on the floor and behave in a manner appropriate to air transportation regulations.
Top Tips for Traveling with a Pet on Southwest Airlines: Carrier, Cabin, and Health Rules
To make your journey stress-free when flying with your furry companion, follow these essential tips designed to align with Southwest Airlines' pet policy.
1. Choose the Right Pet Carrier
Use an airline-approved carrier that is leak proof, well ventilated, and meets the carrier requirements—no larger than 17” long × 10” wide × 9.5” high. The carrier must fit comfortably under the seat in front of you and allow your cat or dog to stand, turn around, and lie down. Remember: you're allowed only one pet carrier, and it must contain pets of the same species.
2. Keep Your Pet Calm and Comfortable
Help your furry friend adjust to flying by getting them accustomed to the carrier well before travel. Consider short practice trips. Offering water and light snacks before the flight helps with hydration and calmness, though pets may avoid food during air travel.
3. Know Health Requirements
While domestic flights don’t require a health certificate, some international flights or destinations may. It’s a good idea to carry proof of vaccinations, especially the rabies vaccination, to avoid complications. Check destination-specific rules before you fly.
4. Understand the Pet Fee and Cabin Rules
Southwest charges a fixed pet fare of $95 per direction. This pet fee includes your pet’s space in the cabin, stowed as a carry-on item. Pets are not allowed to be checked as baggage, and unaccompanied minors cannot bring pets.
By following these tips and adhering to the pet policy Southwest Airlines has outlined, you'll enjoy a smooth flight experience with your pet—whether you're heading to the Hawaiian Islands, flying cross-country, or simply visiting friends.
Conclusion
Flying with your pet on Southwest Airlines is a relatively simple and affordable experience, as long as you understand the pet policy and prepare in advance. Whether you're traveling with a dog, a cat, or another small pet, Southwest’s pet policy Southwest Airlines is clear and designed to ensure a smooth journey for both you and your pet. By adhering to the carrier requirements, booking your pet’s spot early, and keeping your pet comfortable throughout the journey, you’ll be ready to embark on an enjoyable flight with your furry companion. Safe travels!
