What To Know
- In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the ins and outs of Southwest’s pet policy, exploring the requirements, restrictions, and everything you need to know to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey for your furry companion.
- Your pet must travel in an approved hard-sided or soft-sided pet carrier that meets the following criteria.
- By following the requirements and restrictions outlined in this guide, you can ensure a stress-free and enjoyable experience for both you and your pet.
Traveling with your beloved pets can be a delightful experience, but navigating airline policies can be a bit tricky. When it comes to Southwest Airlines, one of the most common questions pet owners have is: Can animals fly Southwest Airlines? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the ins and outs of Southwest’s pet policy, exploring the requirements, restrictions, and everything you need to know to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey for your furry companion.
Southwest’s Pet Policy
Southwest Airlines allows small domesticated cats and dogs to travel as checked baggage on most flights within the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. To ensure the well-being and safety of both pets and passengers, certain requirements must be met.
Pet Carrier Requirements
Your pet must travel in an approved hard-sided or soft-sided pet carrier that meets the following criteria:
- Hard-sided carriers: Must be made of durable plastic or fiberglass and have ventilation holes on all sides.
- Soft-sided carriers: Must be made of water-resistant material and have mesh panels for ventilation.
- Dimensions: The carrier must not exceed 19.5 inches in length, 13.5 inches in width, and 8.5 inches in height.
- Security: The carrier must have a secure latch and be able to withstand the rigors of baggage handling.
Pet Restrictions
Southwest Airlines does not allow certain breeds of dogs and cats on its flights due to safety concerns. These breeds include:
- Pit Bulls
- Staffordshire Terriers
- American Bulldogs
- Presa Canarios
- Doberman Pinschers
- Rottweilers
- Chow Chows
- Akitas
- Wolf hybrids
Pet Fees
Southwest Airlines charges a non-refundable pet fee of $95 per carrier for each one-way flight. This fee covers the handling and transportation of your pet.
Pet Health Requirements
To ensure the health and safety of all passengers, Southwest requires that your pet meets certain health requirements:
- Vaccination: Your pet must be up-to-date on all required vaccinations, including rabies, distemper, and parvovirus.
- Health certificate: A health certificate from a licensed veterinarian is required within 10 days of travel. The certificate must state that your pet is healthy and fit to fly.
Check-In Process
When checking in your pet at the airport, you will need to present the following documents:
- Pet carrier that meets Southwest’s requirements
- Pet health certificate
- Proof of vaccination
In-Flight Care
Your pet will be placed in the baggage compartment during the flight. Southwest provides temperature-controlled compartments to ensure your pet’s comfort.
Emotional Support Animals
Southwest Airlines allows emotional support animals to travel in the cabin. To qualify, your pet must be trained to perform tasks that assist with your disability. You will need to provide documentation from a licensed mental health professional to prove your pet’s status as an emotional support animal.
Final Thoughts: Fly with Confidence
With Southwest Airlines’ pet policy, you can rest assured that your furry friend will be safe and comfortable during your travels. By following the requirements and restrictions outlined in this guide, you can ensure a stress-free and enjoyable experience for both you and your pet.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Can I bring my pet on every Southwest flight?
A: Southwest allows pets on most flights within the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Q: What is the pet fee on Southwest Airlines?
A: Southwest charges a non-refundable pet fee of $95 per carrier for each one-way flight.
Q: What size carrier can I use for my pet?
A: The carrier must not exceed 19.5 inches in length, 13.5 inches in width, and 8.5 inches in height.
Q: Do I need to provide a health certificate for my pet?
A: Yes, a health certificate from a licensed veterinarian is required within 10 days of travel.
Q: Can I bring my emotional support animal on Southwest flights?
A: Yes, Southwest allows emotional support animals to travel in the cabin.
