Southwest Airlines Pet Carrier Guide

Everything You Need to Know About Flying Your Pet with Southwest Airlines

Bringing your furry friend on a Southwest Airlines flight is a convenient and affordable way to travel together. With their pet-friendly policies and comfortable cabins, Southwest makes it easy to keep your pet safe and happy during your journey.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about flying your pet with Southwest Airlines, including:

• Pet Carrier Requirements
• Pet Fees
• Pet Health Requirements
• Boarding and Unboarding Procedures
• Tips for a Stress-Free Flight

Pet Carrier Requirements

Southwest Airlines accepts pets in hard-sided or soft-sided carriers that meet the following requirements:

• The carrier must be large enough for your pet to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
• The carrier must be made of durable material that will not collapse or break.
• The carrier must be well-ventilated and have a secure door.
• The carrier must fit under the seat in front of you.

Pet Fees

Southwest Airlines charges a pet fee of $95 each way for dogs and cats. The fee is non-refundable and must be paid at the time of booking.

Pet Health Requirements

To fly on Southwest Airlines, your pet must be at least 8 weeks old and up-to-date on its vaccinations. Your pet must also be free of any contagious diseases.

Pets traveling from or to Hawaii or Puerto Rico must meet additional health requirements. Please contact Southwest Airlines for more information.

Boarding and Unboarding Procedures

When you arrive at the airport, you will need to check your pet in at the ticket counter. A Southwest Airlines employee will weigh your pet and carrier and collect the pet fee.

Once your pet is checked in, you will be given a boarding pass for your pet. You will need to keep this boarding pass with you at all times.

When it is time to board the plane, you will need to take your pet through security. Your pet will need to be removed from its carrier and placed on a scanning belt. You will need to walk through the metal detector while your pet is on the belt.

After you have cleared security, you will be able to board the plane. You will need to place your pet's carrier under the seat in front of you.

When you arrive at your destination, you will need to take your pet through the arrival process. You will need to retrieve your pet's carrier from the baggage claim area.

Tips for a Stress-Free Flight

Here are a few tips to help make your pet's flight as stress-free as possible:

• Get your pet used to its carrier well before the flight. Let your pet sleep in the carrier and take it for short walks around the house.
• Put a blanket or towel in the carrier that smells like home. This will help your pet feel more comfortable.
• Give your pet a light meal before the flight. This will help to prevent nausea.
• Do not give your pet any sedatives or tranquilizers before the flight. These medications can make your pet more disoriented and uncomfortable.
• Stay calm and reassuring during the flight. Your pet will pick up on your anxiety, so it is important to stay relaxed.

Table 1: Southwest Airlines Pet Fees

Table 2: Pet Health Requirements

Table 3: Boarding and Unboarding Procedures

Table 4: Tips for a Stress-Free Flight

Why Flying with Southwest Airlines is the Best Option for Pets

There are many reasons why flying with Southwest Airlines is the best option for pets. Here are just a few:

• Southwest Airlines is a pet-friendly airline. They have a long history of safely transporting pets.
• Southwest Airlines has affordable pet fees. Their pet fees are lower than many other airlines.
• Southwest Airlines has comfortable cabins. Their cabins are spacious and well-ventilated, which makes them comfortable for pets.
• Southwest Airlines has a dedicated pet policy. Their pet policy is clear and easy to understand.

If you are looking for a safe, affordable, and comfortable way to fly with your pet, Southwest Airlines is the best option for you.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when flying with your pet on Southwest Airlines:

• Do not try to sneak your pet onto the plane. This is a violation of Southwest Airlines policy and could result in you being fined.
• Do not give your pet any sedatives or tranquilizers before the flight. These medications can make your pet more disoriented and uncomfortable.
• Do not leave your pet unattended in the carrier. This is a safety hazard and could result in your pet being injured.
• Do not overfeed your pet before the flight. This could lead to nausea and vomiting.
• Do not bring any food or water into the cabin for your pet. This is a violation of Southwest Airlines policy.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can help ensure that your pet has a safe and comfortable flight.

Conclusion

Flying with your pet on Southwest Airlines is a convenient and affordable way to travel together. By following the tips in this guide, you can help ensure that your pet has a safe and stress-free flight.

Please note that Southwest Airlines pet policy is subject to change. Please visit the Southwest Airlines website for the most up-to-date information.