Southwest Airlines Pet Policy

Many of us treat our pets like members of the family when we travel. The good news is that Southwest Airlines has created a pet-friendly policy to guarantee a comfortable travel experience for both people and their furry friends. The airline is aware of this bond. We’ll examine Southwest Airlines pet policy in more detail and provide clear explanations of the key points in this article.

Does Southwest allow pets in cabins?

Southwest pet policy in the cabin allows pets on a first-come-first-serve basis by charging 125 USD each way as Southwest Airlines pet fee.

Southwest Airlines pets check-in: Pets traveling with their owners must finish the boarding process at the Southwest Airlines check-in desk. Boarding passes can be obtained online, at the airport kiosk, at the ticket counter, or through curbside check-in.

Pet limit: The number of pets allowed is 6 per aircraft with a limit of 1 pet per passenger.

In-Cabin Guidelines for Pet Travel

Once you’ve booked your pet’s ticket and have the appropriate carrier, there are a few guidelines to follow on the day of travel:

Arrive Early: It’s crucial to arrive at the airport well in advance. Checking in at least an hour ahead of the regular recommended check-in time is advised by Southwest Airlines.

Check-In at the Ticket Counter: Pet owners must check in at the ticket counter rather than online or at the self-service kiosk.

Security Screening: The security check will be completed by both you and your pet. Make sure it’s simple to remove your pet from the carrier so that the process is quick and stress-free.

Boarding Procedures: Pet owners are invited to board with the “Family Boarding” group, typically between the “A” and “B” boarding groups.

Does Southwest Allow Pets in Cargo?

No, Southwest Airlines does not allow pets in cargo. As per Southwest Airlines Pet Policy, they only allow small, vaccinated domestic cats and dogs to travel in the cabin with their passengers. Here’s why:

Safety: Southwest prioritizes the safety of both passengers and animals. Having pets in cargo can pose potential risks.

Comfort: Southwest feels that owners should be able to comfortably fly with their dogs. Having them in the cabin guarantees a more comfortable and familiar experience.

Logistical challenges: Southwest has decided not to put in place the extra infrastructure and procedures needed to handle and carry pets in cargo.

As per the Southwest Airlines pet policy, there cannot be more than 6 scheduled pet carriers per flight.

What are the Southwest Airlines pet carrier requirements?

Southwest Airlines has specific requirements for pet carriers when traveling with small pets in the cabin. When traveling within the cabin of Southwest Airlines, pets must be kept in kennels or carriers authorized by the airline. During boarding and while at the airport, they have to stay in the carrier. Here are the general guidelines for Southwest Airlines pet carrier requirements:

• The pet carrier must be small enough to fit under the seat in front of the passenger.
• There are usually size constraints on the carrier’s measurements, so it’s critical to abide by them.
• It’s possible that Southwest Airlines has requirements for the carrier’s material. It should be strong and give the pet the right amount of confinement.
• There should be a limit on the total weight of the pet and carrier. It’s vital to review the Southwest Airlines Pet Policy as this cap may change.

Eligible Southwest pet carrier

The acceptable pet carriers include –

• The Southwest pet carrier size must not exceed 17” long x 9.5” high x 10” wide.
• Other pet carriers must be within the dimensions of 18.5” long x 8.5” high x 13.5” wide.
• Must be leak-proof, and well-ventilated. 
• The airline accepts both soft-sided as well as hard-sided.
• It must fit under the seat.

Southwest approved pet carriers

Additionally, travelers can search for the pet carriers that cost 58 USD (tax included) at the Southwest ticket desks at the airport. Southwest Airlines pet carrier are also available for online purchase. 

Are there any Southwest pet travel restrictions?

Southwest Airlines has specific guidelines and restrictions for traveling with pets in the cabin. Southwest pet policy does not allow pets to travel without the company of passengers. Some other restrictions are:

• When a kid books Southwest unaccompanied minor service, they are not permitted to travel with pets.
• Passengers are not allowed to occupy exit row seats.
• The airline does not permit pets as checked luggage. 
• Pets must be at least 8 weeks old.
• To accommodate a pet or trained assistance animal, passengers traveling with portable oxygen cylinders must purchase an additional seat.
• Pets must not exhibit aggressive behavior and must be odorless during the flight. 
• Southwest Airlines pet policy must not share the carrier with the Southwest service animal.
• The airline does not offer oxygen masks to the pets.

In accordance with Southwest Airlines pet policy, the airline will not bear liability if travelers miss their flight because they have to bring their pets to the relief locations.

What are the Southwest Service Animal Guidelines?

Although they can travel with the passenger without incurring an additional pet travel cost, Southwest Service Animal are handled just like regular pets.

Required documentation: A U.S. Department of Transportation form must be completed if you are traveling with a trained assistance dog. 

Leashed: Service animals must be leashed or harnessed all the time during travel.

Behavior: Any disruptive behavior, like biting, growling, or loud barking, may result in the cancellation of flights. Check out Southwest Airlines cancellation policy to find out more. 

Fee: There is no Southwest Airlines pet fee for trained service animals.

What are the Guidelines for Emotional Service Pets?

According to Southwest service dog policy, emotional support animals are not treated the same as service dogs. As a result, the Southwest pet fee for ESA would be charged.

The Southwest pet travel restrictions include – 

• Service animals can’t sit in exit rows or an aisle during the flight.
• You do have the choice to bring an additional pet with you if you are traveling with a service animal.
• You will require an additional seat if your service animal is larger than a youngster under the age of two.

The goal of Southwest Airlines pet policy is to simplify the process of traveling with your tiny dog or cat. You and your pet can enjoy the friendly skies together if you are aware of the rules, book reservations in advance, and make sure you have the appropriate container.