Everything You Need to Know About Flying with Pets on Southwest: A Comprehensive Guide

Traveling with your furry companions can be a joy, but it can also be a bit of a hassle, especially when it comes to flying. If you're planning to take your pet on a Southwest flight, there are a few things you need to know to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.

Preparing Your Pet for the Flight

1. Book your pet's flight in advance. Southwest allows only six pets per flight in the cabin and two pets per flight in cargo. To avoid any last-minute surprises, book your pet's flight as early as possible.
2. Get your pet used to the carrier. Well in advance of your flight, introduce your pet to its carrier and let them spend time inside it to familiarize themselves.
3. Acclimate your pet to travel conditions. Take your pet on short car rides or trips to the park inside the carrier to help them adjust to being confined.
4. Make sure your pet is healthy and has up-to-date vaccinations. Southwest requires a health certificate from a licensed veterinarian for all pets flying in the cabin.

Rules and Regulations for Flying with Pets on Southwest

In-Cabin Pets

• Pet weight and size restrictions: Pets must weigh less than 20 pounds, including the carrier. The carrier's maximum dimensions are 18.5" long x 13.5" wide x 8.5" high.
• Fees: The cost for flying with a pet in the cabin is $95 each way.
• Pet carrier requirements: The carrier must be soft-sided, well-ventilated, and have a leak-proof bottom.
• Pet behavior: Pets must remain inside the carrier at all times during the flight, except when using the designated pet relief area.

Checked Pets

• Pet weight and size restrictions: Pets over 20 pounds or that do not fit in the in-cabin carrier requirements must fly as checked baggage.
• Fees: The fee for flying with a pet in cargo is $100 each way.
• Pet crate requirements: The crate must be large enough for the pet to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. It must be made of durable material and have adequate ventilation.
• Pet preparation: Pets flying in cargo must be at least 8 weeks old, have no health conditions that require special care, and be able to tolerate being confined for several hours.

How to Step-by-Step Book Your Pet's Flight on Southwest

1. Call Southwest Airlines to book your pet's flight. You can make the reservation over the phone by calling 1-800-435-9792.
2. Provide the required information. You will need to provide your pet's breed, weight, age, and health status.
3. Pay the pet fee. The pet fee is $95 for in-cabin pets and $100 for checked pets each way.
4. Receive your pet's confirmation number. Once your pet's flight is booked, you will receive a confirmation number. Keep this number for your records.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Flying with Pets on Southwest

• Not booking your pet's flight in advance. Southwest has a limited number of pet spaces available on each flight, so be sure to book early to avoid disappointment.
• Not getting your pet used to the carrier. A carrier can be a scary place for a pet, so it is important to introduce them to it gradually before the flight.
• Not acclimating your pet to travel conditions. If your pet is not used to being confined or traveling, they may become stressed during the flight.
• Not making sure your pet is healthy and has up-to-date vaccinations. Southwest requires a health certificate from a licensed veterinarian for all pets flying in the cabin.
• Not following the pet rules and regulations. Southwest has specific rules and regulations for flying with pets, so be sure to follow them to avoid any problems.

Pros and Cons of Flying with Pets on Southwest

Pros:

• Southwest is one of the most pet-friendly airlines. They allow both dogs and cats to fly in the cabin and cargo.
• Southwest's pet fees are relatively low. The pet fee is $95 for in-cabin pets and $100 for checked pets each way.
• Southwest has a dedicated pet relief area. This area is located outside the terminal, and gives pets a chance to stretch their legs and use the bathroom.

Cons:

• There are limited pet spaces available on each flight. Southwest only allows six pets per flight in the cabin and two pets per flight in cargo.
• Pets must remain inside the carrier at all times during the flight. This can be uncomfortable for pets, especially on long flights.
• Pets may experience stress during the flight. The noise, vibrations, and unfamiliar environment can be stressful for pets.

Call to Action

If you are planning to fly with your pet on Southwest, be sure to book early and follow the rules and regulations. With a little planning and preparation, you and your furry friend can have a safe and enjoyable flight.

Additional Information and Resources

• Southwest Airlines Pet Policy
• American Veterinary Medical Association Pet Travel Guide
• International Air Transport Association (IATA) Live Animals Regulations

Tables

Table 1: Pet Fees on Southwest

Table 2: Pet Carrier Requirements for Southwest

Table 3: Pet Health Requirements for Southwest