Southwest Airlines Pet Policy: Everything You Need to Know for 2023

Traveling with your furry companion can be a hassle, but Southwest Airlines makes it easy with their pet-friendly policies. In this comprehensive guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to ensure a smooth and enjoyable flight with your pet.

Flying with Southwest Airlines: The Basics

Southwest Airlines allows small dogs and cats to fly in carriers in the cabin. The pet fee is $95 each way, and only one pet carrier per passenger is permitted. Pets are not allowed to roam freely in the cabin.

Pet Carrier Requirements

• Soft-sided or hard-sided carrier no larger than 18.5" x 13.5" x 8.5"
• Carrier must be well-ventilated and have a secure latch
• Pet must be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably
• Carrier must fit under the seat in front of you

Pet Health Requirements

• Pets must be at least 8 weeks old
• Pets must be healthy and up-to-date on vaccinations
• Pets must be free of contagious diseases
• A health certificate may be required for international flights

Preparing for Your Flight

To make your flight with your pet as stress-free as possible, it's important to prepare in advance. Here are some tips:

• Book your pet's flight as early as possible, as space is limited.
• Bring your pet's health certificate, vaccination records, and any other required documentation.
• Purchase a pet carrier that meets Southwest Airlines' requirements.
• Train your pet to stay calm in the carrier.
• Feed your pet a light meal a few hours before the flight.

At the Airport

When you arrive at the airport, check in at the counter and pay the pet fee. The agent will provide you with a pet tag, which you must attach to your pet's carrier.

You'll then need to take your pet through security. Pets must be removed from their carriers and placed in the screening bin. You may be asked to remove your pet from the carrier for additional screening.

After security, you'll need to find a pet relief area. These areas are typically located in the terminals and are designated for pets to relieve themselves.

On the Plane

Once you're on the plane, place your pet's carrier under the seat in front of you. Make sure the carrier is secure and your pet is comfortable.

You can give your pet water in a small bowl, but do not feed them during the flight.

If your pet becomes distressed during the flight, try to calm them down by speaking softly and petting them.

After the Flight

Once you've landed, you'll need to retrieve your pet from the baggage claim area.

If you're connecting to another flight, you'll need to take your pet through security again.

Additional Information

• Southwest Airlines does not transport pets as cargo.
• Pregnant pets are not allowed to fly.
• Pets are not allowed to fly on flights to or from Hawaii, Puerto Rico, or the US Virgin Islands.
• Southwest Airlines offers a pet relief program for pets on long flights.

Tables

Table 1: Pet Carrier Requirements

Table 2: Pet Health Requirements

Table 3: Preparing for Your Flight

Table 4: At the Airport

FAQs

1. How much does it cost to fly with a pet on Southwest Airlines?
The pet fee is $95 each way.

2. What are the pet carrier requirements?
The pet carrier must be soft-sided or hard-sided, no larger than 18.5" x 13.5" x 8.5", well-ventilated, and have a secure latch.

3. What are the pet health requirements?
Pets must be at least 8 weeks old, healthy, up-to-date on vaccinations, and free of contagious diseases.

4. Can I feed my pet during the flight?
No, you cannot feed your pet during the flight.

5. What should I do if my pet becomes distressed during the flight?
If your pet becomes distressed during the flight, try to calm them down by speaking softly and petting them.

6. What happens if my pet needs to relieve themselves during the flight?
There are pet relief areas located in the terminals for pets to relieve themselves.

7. Can I fly with two pets?
No, only one pet carrier per passenger is permitted.

8. Can I fly with my pregnant pet?
No, pregnant pets are not allowed to fly.