Southwest Airlines Pet Policy: Everything You Need To Know

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Southwest Airlines understands the significance of pets in our lives and allows both cats and dogs to travel with their owners. This policy applies to both service animals and pets accompanying passengers. However, it's important to note that Southwest Airlines currently does not permit any other types of animals on board.

Pet Restrictions
While Southwest Airlines welcomes cats and dogs, there are certain restrictions that need to be adhered to for the safety and comfort of all passengers.

Breed Restrictions
Southwest Airlines does not impose any specific breed restrictions, ensuring that all well-behaved cats and dogs have the opportunity to travel. However, it is essential to comply with local and state regulations that may have specific restrictions based on breed.

Age Restrictions
For the safety of the pets, Southwest Airlines requires that all pets be at least 8 weeks old to travel. Additionally, puppies and kittens under 4 months old must have all the necessary vaccinations.

Health and Documentation
To ensure the well-being of your pet during the journey, Southwest Airlines ...
... mandates that all pets must be in good health and fit to travel. It is strongly recommended to consult your veterinarian prior to the trip to ensure your pet is healthy and up to date with vaccinations.

Moreover, passengers are required to provide the appropriate documentation for their pets, including vaccination records and health certificates. These documents serve as proof of your pet's health and may be requested by Southwest Airlines staff during check-in or boarding.

Container Requirements
To guarantee the safety and comfort of both the pet and the passengers, Southwest Airlines has specific container requirements for pets traveling in the cabin.

The pet carrier must be leak-proof, well-ventilated, and secure.
The carrier's base must be solid and waterproof.
It should have enough space for the pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
The container should fit under the seat in front of the passenger and remain there throughout the flight.
The maximum dimensions allowed for the carrier are 18.5" long x 8.5" high x 13.5" wide.
Pet Fees and Reservations
Southwest Airlines charges a pet fare for each one-way trip, allowing your furry friend to accompany you on your travels.

Pet Fare
The pet fare for each one-way trip is $95, which is in addition to the passenger's ticket fare. It's important to note that the pet fare is nonrefundable.

Pet Reservations
To ensure a spot for your pet on board, it is crucial to make a reservation in advance. Southwest Airlines has a limited number of spots available for pets on each flight, so it's recommended to book early. Pet reservations cannot be made online and must be made by calling Southwest Airlines directly.

Guidelines for Pet Travel
To guarantee a pleasant journey for both your pet and fellow passengers, Southwest Airlines has established guidelines for traveling with pets.

Arrival and Check-In
Passengers traveling with pets are advised to arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before the scheduled departure time. This allows ample time for check-in, security procedures, and any necessary documentation verification.

Security Screening
During the security screening process, passengers are required to take their pets out of the carrier and carry them in their arms while walking through the metal detector. The pet carrier is then screened separately.

In-Flight Considerations
Once on board, it is essential to follow these guidelines to ensure a comfortable and safe flight:

The pet carrier must remain under the seat in front of the passenger throughout the flight.
Pets must remain inside the carrier at all times, with no part of their body protruding from the carrier.
Pets should not be removed from the carrier during the flight unless authorized by the flight crew.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Southwest Airlines offers a pet-friendly travel experience for both cats and dogs. By following the guidelines and adhering to the pet policy, you can enjoy a stress-free journey with your furry companion. Remember to make a reservation in advance, ensure your pet is healthy and vaccinated, and comply with all container requirements. At [Your Company Name], we hope this comprehensive guide has provided you with the necessary information to make your Southwest Airlines pet travel experience a breeze!