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Species: Southwest only recognizes dogs as trained service animals. Other species are not accepted.
Function: A service animal must be individually trained to perform a task or work for the benefit of an individual with a disability. This is the key legal distinction from a pet or emotional support animal.
Forms: Since January 2021, all passengers traveling with a service animal must present a completed U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Service Animal Air Transportation Form. This form attests to the animal’s health, training, and behavior. The form must be dated on or after the date you purchased your ticket.
Free of Charge: Unlike pets, which require a fee, a trained service animal can travel in the cabin with its handler free of charge.
In-Person Check-In: You cannot check in online or at a kiosk with a service animal. You must present the required forms to a Southwest agent at the ticket counter or gate.
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Q1: Does my service animal need to be in a carrier?
A1: No, a service animal does not need to be in a carrier. It must be harnessed, leashed, or tethered to you at all times.
Q2: What forms do I need to travel with a service animal?
A2: You are required to complete the U.S. DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form.
Q3: Can I check in for my flight with a service animal online?
A3: No, you must check in in person at the ticket counter or at the gate to present your forms.
Q4: Can I travel with a service animal and a pet on the same flight?
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Q5: What if my service animal does not fit in my foot space?
A5: Your service animal must fit in the floor space in front of your seat. If not, the airline may work with you to find another seat, but you may need to purchase an additional ticket.
Q6: What if my service animal misbehaves?
A6: Southwest Airlines can deny transport to a service animal that poses a direct threat or engages in disruptive behavior.
Q7: Do I need a service animal vest or ID?
A7: No, a vest or ID is not required and will not be accepted in place of the U.S. DOT form.
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A8: Yes, an agent can guide you through the forms and answer any questions you have about them.
Q9: Do I need a health certificate for my service animal?
A9: The U.S. DOT form includes an attestation of your animal's health and rabies vaccination status.
Q10: Are emotional support animals considered service animals on Southwest?
A10: No, Southwest Airlines no longer accepts emotional support animals as service animals. They must travel as pets.
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