Are you looking for the best airline to make pet travel easier than ever? Well, your search ends at Southwest Airlines as it welcomes small vaccinated domestic dogs and cats on the flight. You should go through the Southwest Airlines pet policy in detail to have a smooth experience with your furry friend in the air. For more details on the airline’s pet policy, check out the following blog.
Does Southwest Airlines Allow Pets on the Flight?
Yes, Southwest Airlines permits pets on the flight. As mentioned, you can bring small domesticated dogs and cats on the flight. However, they should be in a proper pet carrier throughout the trip. You will have to pay a Southwest Airlines pet fee to book pet travel on the airline. When you choose Southwest for pet travel, the airline promises to facilitate you with the best experience.
What are the Rules for Dogs & Cats on Southwest Airlines?
There are certain rules if you are thinking about bringing your lovely pet on the flight. Here are some guidelines that you should learn.
- Small, vaccinated domestic dogs and cats are permitted on the flight.
- The pet should be in an appropriate Southwest Airlines pet carrier throughout the journey.
- Only one pet carrier is allowed per passenger.
- In each pet kennel, there should not be more than 2 cats or dogs of the same species.
- You can only bring pets on the flight if they are at least 8 weeks old.
- Please note that unaccompanied minors are not allowed to bring pets on the flight.
How Strict is Southwest on Pet Carrier Size?
As mentioned above, your pet should be in an appropriate pet carrier in the gate area, during boarding/ deboarding, and on the flight. You should know the allowed pet carrier size on Southwest Airlines to avoid any last-minute hassle at the airport. Here are the rules related to the pet carrier size or dimensions, along with other important rules.
- The pet kennel should not exceed 18.5” long x 8.5” high x 13.5” wide. Make sure to follow these dimensions for a smooth experience.
- Moreover, the pet carrier should be well-ventilated and leak-proof.
- As per Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations, the per carrier should be small enough to stow under the seat when you are onboard.
- If you are flying with a pet on Southwest Airlines, it should be in the pet carrier throughout the flight. If the dog or cat is not in the pet kennel, it will be denied boarding.
- Your pet must be completely in the pet carrier. Pets must be able to turn around, stand up, and move around the pet carrier with ease.
You can also get the Southwest branded pet carrier online or at the offline store. Know the Southwest Airlines pet carrier dimensions, get the pet kennel, and have an amazing experience with your pet on the flight.
How do I Add a Pet to My Southwest Booking?
If you want to add a pet to your booking, you need to call the airline agents. Make sure to book pet travel before arriving at the airport. Give a call at 1-800-435-9792 before your journey to add a pet to your existing reservation. Once you book a pet, bring it in the Southwest Airlines approved pet carrier for a hassle-free experience.
You can also contact the airline over its social media channels. Message the airline with your confirmation number, and book pet travel with ease. The customer service team of the airline is happy to help you throughout. Space is limited on the flight, so make sure to book as soon as possible.
What is the Pet Travel Fee on Southwest Airlines?
You will have to pay a specific fee to book your pet on the flight. If you are traveling within the USA, you must pay a $125 pet fare each way per pet carrier. The pet fee is $35 each way per pet carrier if you are flying between Hawaiian Islands. Please note that Southwest Airline pet fees are subject to change. Pay the needed fee at the ticket counter before boarding your flight.
If you cancel your reservation, the pet fare is refundable. Southwest Airlines doesn’t permit pets on international itineraries.
Can I Bring a Pet Carrier and a Carry-On Item?
Yes, you can bring a pet carrier and a personal item or carry-on item on the flight. The pet kennel counts towards a personal item or a carry-on bag. Therefore, you can’t bring a pet carrier, a carry-on item, and a personal item.
If you have chosen Southwest Airlines for flying with pets, you should connect with its travel agents to learn about the baggage allowance. The travel experts are ready to help you all the time.
In Conclusion
With Southwest Airlines, you are assured to have a fantastic travel experience if you are flying with your furry friend. Make sure to go through the detailed pet policy for a smooth journey. After that, call the airline to make a Southwest Airlines pet reservation and fly conveniently to your destination. Call the airline now to book pet travel without any additional effort.
Read Related Post:
How Does Southwest Airlines Low Fare Calendar Work?