Southwest Pet Policy: Know Pet Fee, Carrier & Other Faq Info

The airline permits small vaccinated pets like dogs and cats onboard. Per can be carried in the cabin under the front seat. However, pets need to be taken in the carrier suggested by the airline. If you booked an international flight, your pet isn't allowed in the cabin. 
 
Generally, Southwest Airlines' pet policy is based on a first-come, first-served, only 6 pets are given permission on a flight, and one pet carrier is paying per passenger. Travelers carrying pets can check in online, at the curbside check-in, or the airport. 
 
Ensure your pet doesn't have aggressive behavior like scratching, excessive whining and barking, growling, biting, or urinating in the cabin or gate. Otherwise, you may be denied a boarding pass. 

Southwest Airlines' pet carrier requirements 

Here are the guidelines for pet carrier requirements: 
  • Southwest Airlines Pet carrier should not be more than 17" long x 9.5" high x 10" wide in size. 
  • Both soft-sided and hard-sided carriers are allowed by the airline. 
  • The carrier must be leak-proof and well-ventilated. 
  • Pet carriers should fit in the passengers' front seat. 
The airline provides a pet carrier that can be bought at the Southwest Airport ticket counter or online. You need to spend around $58, and these are non-refundable. 

How much does it cost to bring a pet to Southwest Airlines? 

If you need to travel with a pet, the airline charge a Southwest pet fee of around $ 95 per pet fare for one way. However, the amount is refundable if you cancel your flight or the flight is delayed and decide not to rebook the flight; flyers can request a refund. 

How to book a pet on southwest airlines? 

Booking guidelines are different for domestic and international flights: 
  • U.S. Domestic flights: southwest pet reservations should be made in advance through customer support. You can dial the contact number 1-800-435-9792 to speak with a live representative. You must carry the dog/cat to the airport in an approved pet carrier. Before boarding the flight, you must go to the airport check-in counter to check in your pet. Remember to make the payment for bringing the pet. 
  • International flights: international flights are longer, and pets aren't allowed in the cabin. 

What is permitted while flying on southwest airlines with pets? 

The airline has imposed certain restrictions for the safety of the passengers if they are carrying pets: 
  • Pets can't travel by Southwest Airlines without any passengers or unaccompanied minors. 
  • Travelers flying with pets need help selecting the exit row or front seat. 
  • Pets are permitted in the cabin and not as checked baggage. 
  • Southwest allows only 6 pets on a flight. However, the limit can exceed in special circumstances. 
  • Dogs and cast should be 8 weeks older and fit for traveling.
  • Pet carried needs to be stored under the front seat of the passengers for the entire fight duration. 
  • An oxygen mask or emergency first aid isn't available onboard for the dog or cat. Moreover, the airline isn't responsible for the health of carry-on pets. 

Can I hold my pet instead of using a pet carrier?

No, Southwest doesn't allow passengers to hold their pets. You need to secure your pet in the carrier for the safety of other travelers. Your cat/dog must be in the carrier during gate area, boarding, deboarding, or onboard. 

Will pet carriers count as my carry-on bag?

Pet carriers are considered personal items or carry-on items. The airline is flexible. Therefore, you can carry your pet and a personal item or pet with a carry-on item. 

Is a pet reservation required?

Yes, you must inform the airline if you are flying with the pet because only 6 pets generally airline carries. Passengers can dial the Southwest contact number for booking with a pet. 

What species of pets are allowed?

Only small vaccinated domestic dogs and cats are permitted in the domestic flight cabin. And pets aren't allowed to and from Hawaii flights. 

Can I travel with cremated pet remains?

Cremated pet remains are allowed as carry-on items that must be checked at the security checkpoint. These can't be accepted as checked baggage. Your pet's remains should be in a temporary plastic or cardboard container shared by the crematorium so that it is cleared by X-ray screening. Another reason is to save time by avoiding the physical inspection to pass the security checkpoint.  
 
Related Linking: 
 

Customer Review

    • Stacey P. Jones
    • 2020-01-25 06:07:39
    • Actually I am traveling with 5 pets including one baby pet, Is it possible to travel with all these pets in southwest. Please help me otherwise i need to drop my traveling plan.

Leave your review







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