Southwest Pet Travel Guidelines- A Comprehensive Guide
Traveling with a pet can be overwhelming for most passengers. From managing reservations to learning the rules for pet travel, everything must be completed exceptionally well. On top of that, making sure the little furry friend is comfortable during the trip cannot be overlooked.
If you are planning an aviation trip with your pet on Southwest Airlines, this guidebook will be the best resource for you. In a short while, you will have an idea about the Southwest Pet Travel regulations and related matters. In addition to the critical requirements, you will also learn the ticket fee. So, remain here.
What Animals Does Southwest Airlines Allow Inside the Cabin?
Southwest Airlines permits small, domestic cats and dogs onboard. All the animals must be properly vaccinated and should be kept in an appropriate pet carrier. The airline does not allow pets to travel in cargo, and therefore, individuals will have to take them in the cabin. It is also important that your pet is at least 2 months old; otherwise, it might not be allowed to continue the aviation trip.
Also, please note that other animals such as birds, rabbits, etc, are not allowed as per Southwest Airlines’ pet policy. So, if you want to travel with a pet that is neither a cat nor a dog, you need to look for other options.
Requirements for the Pet-Carrier on Southwest Airlines
Each passenger is allowed to bring one pet carrier, which must fit in the space below the seat in front. It will be counted as a personal item or carry-on baggage. The airline strictly recommends that your pet must always be inside the animal carriage and should be able to move inside it. In this way, your pet will have a wonderful time on board. Here are certain rules related to the permitted pet carrier.
- Passengers must bring a pet carrier, which must be of the following dimensions: 17” (L) x 10” (W) x 9.5” (H).
- Any carrier that you bring on board must be well-ventilated and spill-resistant.
- Before bringing any pet carrier, please check that the item is soft, making it possible to fit comfortably beneath the seat.
How to Book Tickets for Your Pet? Learn Here
If you are traveling within the U.S. mainland, the pet travel charge is $125, which is a one-way fee. Hence, passengers planning a round trip should be prepared to pay double the fare. Please note that this fee will be separate from your own ticket cost. Now, have a look at how you can make the reservations for your pet on Southwest Airlines.
1- Check the eligibility criteria for Southwest pet travel, which have been mentioned above. Only dogs and cats are allowed to travel.
2- Please make the reservation as early as possible. Southwest Airlines has limited space on its aircraft and, as a result, only approves six pets per flight.
3- Contact the officials of the airline to add a pet to your reservations. This procedure is not allowed during online booking; hence, one will have to reach out to the professionals personally. You can also visit the ticket counters at the airport.
4- Try to arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before departure, giving you ample time to check in with your pet.
Southwest Airlines Pet Travel- Airport Experience
As per the Southwest Airlines pet-travel guidelines, the pet-travel fee will be paid by the passengers at the ticket counters. During screening, the pet carrier will be X-rayed, just like any other baggage item. Hence, you will have to hold your pet in your arms and then walk through the checkpoint. Apart from this, your pet must be kept in the carrier in the boarding area or in any corner of the airport. Once your specific boarding group is called, you can board the plane effortlessly.
Travelers can also bring their pets to the animal-relief area, which is available at most airports where Southwest Airlines manages its flights. At these places, your pets can relax before the journey and attain peace of mind.
| Note- Southwest Airlines does not allow pets to board the flight if their behaviour is disruptive or aggressive. Some examples of bad behavior include growling, scratching, biting, extreme biting, and failure to maintain pet hygiene in travel areas. |
Exceptions and Restrictions depending on the Destinations
Southwest Airlines does not allow pet travel on flights to or from Hawaii. But one can easily take their pets on flights within the Hawaiian islands. Also, Southwest Airlines provides pet travel only on domestic flights. Service animals will be exempt from any fee or additional charges.
Anyone traveling to Puerto Rico with Southwest Airlines and their pets must follow specific guidelines. To learn more, please visit the airline’s official website. Also, if you are traveling with a Getaways by Southwest vacation package, please ensure you check the pet policy of the hotel you will be staying in or the car rental service you have chosen.
People May Also Ask
To travel on Southwest Airlines, a pet should be at least 8 weeks old. If your pet is younger, he will not be allowed to board the flight.
For domestic flights, the pet fee for Southwest Airlines is $125. But for flights between Hawaiian islands, the charge is $35.
No. Southwest Airlines strictly allows pets in the cabin only. The animals must be further stewed in front of your seats.
The airline allows one pet carrier per passenger; you can bring one pet or two pets of the same species.
To determine your pet’s condition, it is best to consult your regular veterinarian. After a thorough examination, you will better understand your pet’s situation.
Most airports have a separate pet-relief area in both the arrival and departure areas. So, as a pet-parent, you can take your furry friends to the relief zones.
