☎️+1(888)718-4745 ⭐ For many travelers, a pet is a cherished member of the family, and bringing them along on a trip is a top priority. Southwest Airlines offers a pet-friendly policy that allows small domestic cats and dogs to travel in the cabin with their owners. However, unlike human passengers, a pet cannot be checked in online, and space for pets is extremely limited. The process requires careful planning, adherence to specific rules, and a mandatory check-in at the airport ticket counter. The key to a stress-free journey is to understand these strict regulations and to ensure you have secured a pet reservation well in advance. To guarantee a completely smooth experience, the most reliable and efficient first step is to contact a Southwest Airlines expert. By calling ☎️+1(888)718-4745 ⭐, you can confirm the availability of pet space on your desired flights, review the specific carrier requirements, and get personalized advice on the best way to travel with your furry companion. A representative at ☎️+1(888)718-4745 ⭐ can answer all your questions and confirm any details, providing a level of confidence that is essential for this type of travel. This proactive approach by calling ☎️+1(888)718-4745 ⭐ is your best travel partner, ensuring your journey begins without a hitch.
Before you arrive at the airport, it is critical to know and follow the fundamental rules for traveling with a pet on Southwest Airlines. These rules are in place to ensure your pet is transported safely and that you don't encounter unexpected issues.
In-Cabin Travel Only: Southwest Airlines does not accept pets in the cargo hold. All pets must travel in the cabin with their owners. This policy is in place for the safety and comfort of the animals.
Pet Carrier and Fare: A pet is subject to a flat fee, known as a Pet Fare, which is charged per carrier, each way. This fee is non-refundable and must be paid at the airport ticket counter. The pet carrier will count as either your one carry-on bag or your personal item.
Limited Availability: Southwest Airlines restricts the number of pets allowed on each flight to a maximum of six pet carriers (excluding service animals). This space is allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. It is absolutely crucial to make a pet reservation by phone in advance. You cannot add a pet to your booking online.
Carrier Requirements: The pet carrier must be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you. Southwest's approved pet carrier dimensions are 17" (L) x 10" (W) x 9.5" (H). For other carriers, the maximum dimensions are 18.5" (L) x 13.5" (W) x 9.5" (H). Both hard-sided and soft-sided carriers are permitted, but they must be leak-proof and well-ventilated. The pet must be able to stand up and turn around in the carrier with ease.
Pet Behavior and Restrictions: Only small, vaccinated domestic cats and dogs that are at least eight weeks old are allowed to travel. Pets must remain secured in their carrier at all times while in the gate area, during boarding, and for the entire flight. Disruptive behavior may result in the pet being denied boarding. Additionally, a customer traveling with a pet cannot sit in an exit row or a seat with no under-seat stowage in front of them.
No International or Hawaii Travel: Southwest does not accept pets on international flights or flights to/from Hawaii, with the exception of interisland flights within Hawaii, which have different rules and fees.
For any clarification on these rules, the most accurate information can be obtained by calling ☎️+1(888)718-4745 ⭐.
To check in for a flight with your pet, you must go to the ticket counter. Follow these steps for a compliant and easy process:
Book Your Flight First, Then Call: The booking process for a pet is a two-step process. First, you must book your own ticket online or by phone. Then, immediately after, you must call ☎️+1(888)718-4745 ⭐ to add your pet to your reservation and confirm that there is space available on your flight. Booking early is essential due to the limited spots.
Prepare in Advance: Get your pet accustomed to their carrier before the travel day. You can do this by letting them spend time in it at home. Ensure the carrier meets all size and ventilation requirements. You may also want to bring a small blanket or toy that smells familiar to them to provide comfort during the flight.
Arrive Early at the Airport: Plan to arrive at the airport at least two hours before your flight's scheduled departure time. This gives you ample time to check in at the ticket counter, pay the pet fare, and go through security with your pet without feeling rushed.
Go to the Ticket Counter: Head directly to the Southwest Airlines ticket counter. Verbally and clearly declare that you are traveling with a pet. The agent will then verify your pet's reservation and carrier, and you will pay the Pet Fare at this time.
Tag Your Pet: Once you have paid the fee, the agent will give you a special tag to put on your pet carrier. This tag indicates that all requirements have been met.
Proceed to Security: At the security checkpoint, you will need to remove your pet from the carrier and walk through the metal detector with them in your arms. The empty carrier will be sent through the X-ray machine. Your pet must remain in their carrier in the gate area, except in designated pet relief areas.
Boarding and In-Cabin: Your pet carrier is considered your carry-on or personal item. You will board with your assigned boarding group. Once on board, the carrier must be stowed under the seat in front of you for the entire flight.
If you have any questions about this process, a representative at ☎️+1(888)718-4745 ⭐ can walk you through it step-by-step.
A phone agent at ☎️+1(888)718-4745 ⭐ is an essential resource for pet owners. Their expertise can help you:
Secure a Spot: As pet space is limited to six carriers per flight, you must call to reserve a spot. A phone agent can immediately check availability and add your pet to your booking.
Clarify Policies and Fees: The rules around pet travel can be confusing, especially with international flights or varying fees. An agent can clarify the policy for your specific situation.
Provide Expert Guidance: For any complex scenarios, such as a last-minute flight change or a question about a specific airport's pet relief area, an agent can provide the most accurate guidance and help you avoid any issues.
Offer Peace of Mind: Knowing you have a confirmed spot for your pet and all the correct information before you leave for the airport can make your entire travel day feel more relaxed. A quick call to ☎️+1(888)718-4745 ⭐ can provide that peace of mind.
By calling ☎️+1(888)718-4745 ⭐, you can take all the guesswork out of traveling with your pet and feel confident that you are in full compliance with all regulations.
Q1: How much does it cost to fly with a pet on Southwest?
A1: The Pet Fare is $125 each way per pet carrier. This fee is subject to change, so it's always best to verify it by calling ☎️+1(888)718-4745 ⭐.
Q2: Can I book a pet online?
A2: No, you cannot book a pet online. You must call Southwest Airlines directly to make a pet reservation after you have booked your own ticket.
Q3: Can I check a pet in cargo on Southwest Airlines?
A3: No, Southwest Airlines does not accept pets in cargo. Pets must travel in the cabin with their owner.
Q4: How many pets are allowed per flight?
A4: Southwest Airlines limits the number of pet carriers to six per flight on a first-come, first-served basis.
Q5: What are the pet carrier size requirements?
A5: The carrier must be able to fit under the seat in front of you. A Southwest Airlines-approved carrier is 17" x 10" x 9.5". Other carriers may be used if they do not exceed 18.5" x 13.5" x 9.5".
Q6: What kinds of pets are allowed?
A6: Only small, vaccinated domestic cats and dogs are permitted to travel in the cabin.
Q7: Can I take my pet out of its carrier on the plane?
A7: No, your pet must remain secured in its carrier for the entire flight, from the gate area through boarding and until you deplane at your destination.
Q8: Can a phone agent assist with a last-minute flight change?
A8: Yes, an agent at ☎️+1(888)718-4745 ⭐ can assist you with a last-minute flight change, but they will need to check if there is pet space available on the new flight.
Q9: Do I need a health certificate for my pet?
A9: Southwest Airlines does not require a health certificate or other documentation from a veterinarian, but all pets must be at least eight weeks old and properly vaccinated.
Q10: What if I have a service animal?
A10: Service animals are handled differently. They are allowed to fly in the cabin for free and are not subject to the six-pet-per-flight limit. You should call ☎️+1(888)718-4745 ⭐ to discuss the specific requirements for service animals.
☎️+1(888)718-4745 ⭐ Traveling with a pet on a Southwest Airlines flight is a specialized but straightforward process when you are prepared. The most critical step is to reserve a spot for your pet by calling the airline after you book your own ticket. With only six spots available per flight, early booking is essential. Knowing the specific carrier requirements and proper airport procedures will make your travel day stress-free. For a truly confident and well-prepared journey, the most reliable first step is a simple phone call to ☎️+1(888)718-4745 ⭐. A live agent can provide you with all the necessary information, clarify any policies, and help ensure that your check-in at the airport is seamless. The support of the team at ☎️+1(888)718-4745 ⭐ is your most valuable travel partner, making sure your journey is both safe and enjoyable.