If you travel with your furry friend, you would love to know the Southwest Airlines pet policy. With the facility carried by Southwest Airlines as far as carrying small dogs and cats in the cabin, traveling becomes much easier for people who cannot leave their pets behind. Here’s everything you need to know regarding the requirements, costs, and guidelines on how to ensure that your trip will be a smooth one together with your pet.
Southwest Airlines Pet Policy: Are Dogs Allowed on Southwest Airlines?
Although Southwest does allow dogs and cats on board flights, there are some requirements and rules to be followed. Southwest allows tiny dogs and cats into cabin domestic flights. Unfortunately, this is not true for international flights so check your travel plans before you book them.
Southwest Airlines pet policy is focused on convenience and comfort, but still manages to ensure that pets and passengers are safe. Below are the specifics regarding Southwest Airlines pet policy on flying with pets.
Key Requirements of the Southwest Airlines Pet Policy
1. The pet has to be small enough to fit inside a carrier.
Southwest allows small dogs and cats onboard, which are to stay within a suitable carrier under the seat in front of you all through the flight. Large dogs or pets that could not fit comfortably in a carrier will be not carried.
One pet carrier is allowed per passenger. It is permitted to accommodate up to two pets when they can fit comfortably within the same carrier.
2. Carrier Specifications
A carrier has to be airline-approved and ventilated, leak-proof. Southwest describes a dimension for the size of a carrier as no more than 18.5″ L x 8.5″ H x 13.5″ W. In that way, the carrier would fit under the seat in front.
The Southwest allows carriers with soft-sided, as well as hard-sided, crates, but the animal must be able to stand, lie down and move within the carrier.
3. Age and Health Requirements for Pets
South West Airlines pet policy requires that pets should be at least 8 weeks old before travel, apart from being physically fit to fly because the airline assumes no responsibility towards the health and well-being of the pets during travel.
South West Airlines does not require health certificate for pets, though you may want to refer with your veterinarian and they will be able to advise whether your pet is fit to fly.
4. Pet Fees
Southwest charges a pet fare of $95 each way per pet carrier. This fee must be paid for at the ticket counter on the day of travel. No refunds even if the reservation is cancelled.
How to Book a Pet on Southwest Airlines
Plan in advance if you want to bring a pet along. Southwest Airlines pet policy only accommodates six pets per flight, so space fills up quickly. Pet reservations cannot be made online, but through call centers to Southwest Airlines customer service to book a place for your pet.
As soon as you book your flight, head to the airport about an hour before your departure time. You will need to check in together with your pet at the ticket counter and pay for the fare with the pet. A representative will then inspect to make sure the carrier meets Southwest’s requirements.
What to Expect During the Flight
The pet policy by Southwest entailed that pets had to be stayed in their carriers throughout the flight duration. Southwest advises placing the carrier under the seat in front of you for your pet to feel safe and secure as well. This allows all passengers on board the flight to feel comforted and have no disruptions.
Tips for a Smooth Flight with Your Pet
Here are a few tips for the trip with your pet under Southwest Airlines pet policy:
- Practice with the Carrier: Get your pet accustomed to the carrier. Get them familiar with sitting or lying down in it before travelling.
- Carry a Familiar Scent Blanket or Toy: A small blanket or toy carrying a familiar scent can make all the difference in calming down your pet during the flight.
- Plan feeding and bathroom breaks: Give the pet a light meal several hours prior to departure and schedule bathroom breaks before you board.
Frequently Asked Questions About Southwest Airlines Pet Policy
How much does it cost to bring a pet on Southwest Airlines?
Southwest Airlines charges an extra fee for its $95 per way fee each for pet carriers.
May I bring more than one pet on Southwest Airlines?
Each traveler can carry in only one pet carrier; however, two small pets are accepted within a single carrier, providing that they are able to fit easily therein.
Are service animals exempted from Southwest Airlines pet policy?
No, Southwest Airlines has specific policies toward service animals. Service animals are permitted in the flight without extra charge; however, they must adhere to specific behavioral and training requirements.
What animals can fly on Southwest Airlines pet policy?
Only little dogs and cats can travel in the cabin of Southwest Airlines. No other animals, like birds, rabbits, or reptiles, can fly on Southwest Airlines.
Is there a weight limit for my pet flying on Southwest Airlines?
Southwest does not have a specific weight limit for pets, but they must fit comfortably in an approved pet carrier that can be placed under the seat in front of you.
Can I use points to pay the Southwest pet fee?
No. Southwest Airlines does not accept Rapid Rewards points as payment for the $95 in airline pet fee. Pet fee shall be paid using a credit card or any form of payment available at the airport.
Does Southwest Airlines pet policy have a service animal?
Yes, Southwest Airlines accepts fully trained service dogs that can go free of charge in the cabin only if it meets the documentation and behaviors set by the airline in its documentations.
Are there special seats on Southwest flights that passengers can reserve with their pets?
No, Southwest Airlines will not pre-reserve seats for passengers traveling with pets. However, your pet carrier must fit under the seat in front of you, so it’s a good idea to choose a seat that has a lot of space under the seat in front.
Ready to Book Your Flight with Your Pet?
Southwest Airlines pet policy has made it easy for pet owners to travel with their furry companions in the United States. Whatever your vacation destination is or to spend time with your relatives, Fly Travel Board will come in handy for you to make any booking need and further advise you through the process of traveling with pets. Reach our desk at +1 (844) 539-5787 for your bookings and how to fly with your pet.
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