Taking Your Furry Friend on Board: A Guide to Southwest Airlines Pet Policy
Traveling with your pet can be a wonderful way to share new experiences together. If you’re considering Southwest Airlines for your next adventure, you’ll be happy to know they allow small cats and dogs to travel in the cabin with you on domestic flights (excluding Hawaii). But before you book your tickets, it’s important to understand Southwest’s pet policy to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey for both you and your furry companion.
Can My Pet Fly with Southwest Airlines?
Southwest Airlines only accepts domestic cats and dogs in the cabin. Other small animals like rodents, reptiles, and birds are not permitted. There are also some restrictions on travel to Puerto Rico, so be sure to check with Southwest for any specific requirements.
Pet Carrier Requirements
- Size: Your pet’s carrier must fit comfortably under the seat in front of you. The maximum dimensions are 18.5 inches long x 8.5 inches high x 13.5 inches wide (47 cm x 21.5 cm x 34 cm).
- Material: The carrier must be hard-sided or soft-sided with a structured frame. It should be leak-proof and well-ventilated to ensure your pet’s comfort and safety during the flight.
- Accessibility: The carrier needs to have a door or opening that allows you to easily access your pet for petting, feeding, or watering.
Pet Fees
Southwest charges a pet fare for each pet carrier traveling in the cabin. The fees are as follows:
- U.S. Mainland Flights: $125 each way, per pet carrier
- Inter-Hawaiian Island Flights: $35 each way, per pet carrier
These fees are subject to change, so it’s always best to confirm the current rates on Southwest’s website https://support.southwest.com/helpcenter/s/article/pet-policy before booking your flight.
Making a Reservation for Your Pet
Unlike carry-on luggage, space for pets on Southwest flights is limited. To ensure your pet has a spot on board, you’ll need to make a reservation in advance by calling Southwest Airlines. You can’t add a pet reservation online or at the airport.
Here’s what you’ll need to have on hand when you call:
- Your travel dates and itinerary
- The type and breed of your pet
- The dimensions of your pet carrier
Pet Health Requirements
For the safety and well-being of all animals on board, Southwest has some health requirements for pets:
- Age: Your pet must be at least 8 weeks old to travel.
- Vaccinations: Your pet must be up-to-date on all required vaccinations for its age and species. Be prepared to show a current health certificate from a licensed veterinarian upon request.
- Health: Your pet should be in good health and able to comfortably travel for the duration of the flight. Pets with any contagious diseases or respiratory issues will not be allowed on board.
What to Expect at the Airport
- Check-in: When you arrive at the airport for your flight, you’ll need to check in with a Southwest agent at the ticket counter. They will verify your pet reservation and ensure your pet carrier meets all the requirements.
- Security Screening: Your pet carrier will go through the X-ray machine along with your carry-on luggage. You may be asked to briefly remove your pet from the carrier for additional screening if necessary.
Tips for a Smooth Flight with Your Pet
- Get your pet acclimated to the carrier: Before your flight, allow your pet to spend time in their carrier so they feel comfortable and familiar with the environment.
- Label your carrier: Clearly label your carrier with your name, contact information, and your pet’s name.
- Bring familiar items: Pack a favorite toy or blanket for your pet to help them feel relaxed during the flight.
- Plan for potty breaks: There are no designated pet relief areas onboard Southwest flights. If you have a long flight, consider using a travel-friendly doggy potty pad or consult your veterinarian about options for your pet.
- Keep your pet hydrated: Bring a small water dish and offer your pet water throughout the flight if allowed by the flight attendant.
Conclusion
Traveling with your pet can be a rewarding experience, but it’s important to be prepared and ensure your furry friend meets all the requirements for flying with Southwest Airlines. By following the guidelines outlined in this blog post and planning ahead, you can help ensure a smooth and comfortable journey for both you and your pet.
Additional Resources
- Southwest Airlines Pet Policy: https://support.southwest.com/helpcenter/s/article/pet-policy
- USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) Pet Travel Information: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/pet-travel
For further inquiries:
- Contact Southwest Airlines Customer Service: 1-800-435-9792
By understanding Southwest’s pet policy and making the necessary preparations, you can ensure a stress-free travel experience for yourself and your beloved pet. So, pack your bags, grab your furry co-pilot, and get ready to take to the skies together!
FAQ’s
Only domestic cats and dogs are permitted to travel in the cabin with you.
The maximum dimensions for a pet carrier are 18.5 inches long x 8.5 inches high x 13.5 inches wide (47 cm x 21.5 cm x 34 cm). There is no weight restriction, but your pet must be able to comfortably stand, turn around, and lie down inside the carrier.
The pet fare is $125 each way for flights within the U.S. mainland and $35 each way for inter-Hawaiian island flights. These fees are subject to change, so check Southwest’s website for the latest rates.
Yes, you can bring a small amount of food and water for your pet. However, there are no designated pet relief areas onboard, so plan accordingly for long flights.
Pet Sitters or Boarding Kennels: This is a good option for longer trips or if your pet doesn’t meet the requirements for in-cabin travel.
Pet Shipping Services: For larger pets or brachycephalic breeds, consider a professional pet shipping company to transport your pet via air cargo.
