Southwest Airlines Pet Policy Approved Carrier Dimensions
- ToursN TravelPro
- 5 days ago
- 4 min read
Are you confused about taking your pets on Southwest Airlines? Do not worry, as we are here to help you understand the pet policies of Southwest Airlines. The Southwest Airlines pet policy permits you to travel with your favorite buddy. While some pets are allowed on the flight, the airline prohibits some animals that you may consider pets. Go through this informative blog on the Pet Policy for Southwest Airlines to avoid all confusion.
Southwest Airlines Pet Policy: An Overview
Southwest Airlines allows pets only on domestic flights. You cannot take your furry friend on international flights with Southwest Airlines. We have shared the key highlights of the Southwest Airlines pet policy hereunder.
Only small vaccinated pets (dogs/ cats) are allowed in Southwest Airlines cabins.
International Southwest flights prohibit pet animals.
Your cats/ dogs should be older than 8 weeks for air travel on Southwest flights.
There is a limit of 6 pet carriers on every flight of Southwest Airlines.
Travelers are not permitted to board their pets in the baggage hold.
Service dogs are offered concessions in the Southwest Airlines pet policy. Supporting documents must be presented to receive a waiver.
You will have to pay a $125fee to take your pet carrier.
A single pet carrier has a restriction of up to 2 pets of the same species.
One passenger can carry only one pet carrier on the Southwest flight.
You can take your pet carrier on Southwest Airlines either as a personal item or a carry-on baggage.
Passengers should book their tickets soon to ensure a seat for their pets.
What is the Southwest Airlines Pet Policy in Cabin
You will have to observe the specified rules to carry your pet in Southwest Airlines’ cabin. These rules are:
Your pet carrier must be under the approved guidelines for cabin travel.
Southwest Airlines allows pet travel in the cabin only if the carrier fits under the front seat of your flight.
Only healthy pets (physically and mentally) are permitted to board the Southwest flight.
The Pet should not leave its carrier.
What are the Restrictions on Southwest Airlines' Pet carrier?
The Southwest Airlines Pet Policy has set strict rules for the pet carrier. The Southwest Airlines Pet Carry on Policy defines the guidelines for a valid pet carrier. We have tabulated all important requirements for the pet carrier below.
Specifics of the Pet Carrier | Details |
Maximum Carrier Dimensions | Carriers must not exceed 18.5" (length) x 13.5" (width) x 8.5" (height). The Carrier of your pet should properly fit under the passenger’s seat of a Southwest flight. |
Permitted Kinds of Pet Carrier | The permitted pet carrier types on Southwest Airlines are: Rigid (hard-sided) Flexible (soft-sided) Carriers meeting Southwest’s guidelines count as either a personal item or a carry-on. |
Comfort Level | The pet should be able to do the following tasks inside the carrier comfortably: Lie down Turn around Stand |
Carrier Design Requirements | Carriers must be secure, with proper ventilation and leak-proof material. They must also be designed to prevent pet escapes, such as having a lockable enclosure or a secured leash. |
What is the Southwest Airlines Pet Policy Weight Limit?
Travelers are restricted to carrying only pet animals up to a certain weight. The airline does not set a definite weight restriction for pets in the cabin. However, the community forum notes a maximum of 15 pounds or 7 kg. You can take your pets on Southwest flights as a personal item
How to Safely Travel with Your Pet on Southwest Airlines?
The main necessity for your pet is that it can comfortably reside in a recognized pet carrier for Southwest Airlines. You can follow the tips shared below to make your flight journey of your little partner more comfortable.
You should book your flight during off-peak time. It will help to reduce stress on your pet due to less congestion.
Southwest Airlines has a restriction of 6 pet carrier flights. Passengers should make their reservations early to avoid rejection.
Certain travel destinations (Puerto Rico/ Hawaii) require extra documents. Take those health certifications with you to avoid last-minute denial.
Put your contact information on the collar of your pet for emergency situations.
Passengers should ensure that their pets are adpated to flight conditions (loo/ potty).
Concluding Words
The Southwest Airlines pet policy ensures the safe travel of pets and passengers together on the flight. We have provided all the crucial information related to the pet policy on Southwest flights. The in-cabin/ carrier rules will make your (and your pet's) travel journey smooth. To experience a hassle-free flight booking with Southwest Airlines, contact travel agents at toursntravelpro.com by calling +1-866-679-5070. These knowledgeable representatives will guide you at every step to assist you in finishing your flight reservation process.
FAQs
Q) Are pets allowed on Southwest Airlines?
Southwest Airlines permits you to bring pets on its domestic flights (under specified guidelines). Passengers cannot take pets on any international flight of Southwest Airlines.
Q) What size bag can a pet fly on Southwest Airlines?
You will have to follow the size restrictions of the pet baggage to avoid cancellation at last-minute. Southwest Airlines has put a size restriction of 18.5 inches in Length by 13.5 inches in Width by 9.5 inches in Height on every pet carrier.
Q) How much is the pet fee on Southwest Flights?
Southwest Airlines has a fee for every pet carrier. You can take up to 2 pets (of the same species) in a single carrier. The pet fee is $125 per direction.
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