Southwest Airlines has always been known as the most customer-friendly airline, and that reputation continues with its pet policy. In fact, southwest is one of the few airlines with no weight limit on pets traveling in the cabin, as long as they fit under the seat? That is not all though; read on to learn more about southwest airlines dog policy, including the airlines that fly the most pets and how to pack your pet before you go!
Things to know before booking
Now booking southwest flights are not very different from booking a flight in any other way. However, you should know about if you are traveling with your pet a few quirks. For starters, know that only cats and dogs are allowed on Southwest—no birds or other pets—so be sure your furry friend fits into those categories before booking. Additionally, Southwestern limits carry-on items for customers traveling with pets to one carrier per animal, which means both cats and dogs will have their own carriers, since they need separate ones.
Things you should know about your pet
To understand what southwest pet policy is, it is important to know some basics about your pet. For example, are you flying with a dog in southwest airline, does your pet meet weight and height requirements? Can your pet travel in the cabin with you or does it need to be placed in a carrier during flight? If you are wondering about other questions that might not be included here, you can contact southwest customer service number. Remember, no matter what kind of animal you bring on board with you (cat or dog), there will always be inherent risks associated with flying and having your pet on board. To help reduce those risks and make sure your trip goes smoothly, make sure you follow all policies carefully.
Things you need to do at the airport
Be sure your pet is wearing proper identification. Check with your airline on what forms of identification are acceptable. Southwest Airlines, for example, allows only a current rabies vaccination certificate as proof of vaccination. The airline also requires all pets to be at least eight weeks old, so if you are flying with a pet that is not fully-grown, it may not qualify as an emotional support animal. If you are traveling internationaly with a service or emotional support animal and need confirmation in advance that your animal will be permitted on your flight (not always guaranteed), contact southwest airlines in advance by calling 1-800-I-FLY-SWA.
Checking your pet as baggage
Whether you are an animal lover or an owner of a particularly large breed of dog, there may come a time when you wish to travel with your pet in tow. Traveling with pets is made easy through Southwest Airlines. There are several options depending on what type of dog or cat you own and how you plans to transport it. Here is all you need to know before checking your pet as baggage. Southwest dog policy allows customers to check up to two animals per flight for $75 each way if traveling within domestic US territory. Any animal weighing over 80 pounds must be transported as cargo, which costs $125 each way if booked within 48 hours prior to departure or up to $350 each way if booked between 12-48 hours prior to departure. Checked baggage service charges apply regardless of whether you opt for shipping via Southwest Cargo Service or another third party shipper such as Pet Airways (more information can be found here). This service must be purchased at least 48 hours prior to departure but no later than 24 hours after booking your flight; same day reservations will not be accepted.
Bringing your pet on board
Southwest Airlines allows one pet in each customer’s cabin. The maximum weight allowed is 25 pounds (unless it is a small dog or cat, which can be up to 50 pounds). Your pet must fit comfortably under your seat and you must be able to keep your pet secure and still in your lap during take-off and landing. Pets should be kept in an airline-approved carrier that can stand up on its own, preferably one with handles for ease of carrying. Customers are allowed two pet carriers per flight, but only one animal per carrier; no exceptions. If you have more than two pets total, there will be a charge of $95 for every additional pet brought on board.
