Oh, are you excited to take your furry best friend on an adventure with you? Flying with your dog can be a wonderful experience, and Southwest Airlines is a popular choice for many pet parents. They have a straightforward policy, but it's crucial to understand every detail to ensure a smooth journey for both you and your canine companion. Let's dive into everything you need to know, step by step!
How Do I Take My Dog on Southwest Airlines? A Comprehensive Guide
Taking your dog on Southwest Airlines involves careful planning and adherence to their specific guidelines. Unlike some airlines, Southwest exclusively allows pets in the cabin, which means your dog will be with you throughout the flight, tucked safely under the seat in front of you. This can be a huge relief for pet owners who prefer to keep their pups close!
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| How Do I Take My Dog On Southwest Airlines |
Step 1: Confirm Your Dog is Eligible to Fly with Southwest
Before you even think about booking tickets, the very first thing you need to do is ensure your dog meets Southwest's eligibility criteria. If your dog doesn't qualify, all subsequent steps will be moot!
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Small and Vaccinated Domestic Cats and Dogs Only: Southwest only permits small, vaccinated domestic cats and dogs to travel in the cabin. No other species are allowed.
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Age Requirement: Your dog must be at least eight (8) weeks old to travel.
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Size Matters: This is paramount! Your dog must be small enough to comfortably fit in an approved pet carrier that can be stowed under the seat in front of you. This means they must be able to stand up and turn around inside the carrier without touching or protruding from the carrier.
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Behavioral Expectations: Your dog must be harmless, non-disruptive, and odorless. Any disruptive behavior (excessive barking, growling, biting, lunging, urinating/defecating in the cabin or gate area) can lead to denied boarding.
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No International Flights: Southwest does not accept pets on flights to or from Hawaii or on international itineraries (with the exception of service animals to certain international destinations, but that's a different policy altogether). Pets are allowed on flights to Puerto Rico, but specific requirements may apply.
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Unaccompanied Minors: If you are an unaccompanied minor, you cannot travel with a pet.
So, take a good look at your dog. Can they truly fit comfortably in a carrier under an airline seat? This is the most common reason pets are denied boarding.
Step 2: Understand Southwest's Pet Carrier Requirements
Once you've determined your dog is eligible, the next critical step is getting the right carrier. This isn't just about comfort; it's about compliance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations and Southwest's specific rules.
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Maximum Dimensions: The pet carrier must not exceed 18.5″ L x 13.5″ W x 9.5″ H. While Southwest sells its own branded pet carrier (17” L x 10” W x 9.5” H), you can use any carrier as long as it meets these dimensions.
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Hard-Sided or Soft-Sided: Both hard and soft-sided carriers are generally accepted, but soft-sided carriers are often recommended as they can be more flexible to fit under the seat.
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Leak-Proof and Well-Ventilated: The carrier must be leak-proof with an absorbent bottom (like a puppy pad) and have adequate ventilation. This is for the safety and hygiene of both your pet and the aircraft.
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Room to Move: Your pet must be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably within the carrier. This isn't just a suggestion; it's a requirement.
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Secure Fasteners: Ensure your carrier has secure fasteners to prevent your pet from escaping. Heavy-duty zippers are a good idea.
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One Carrier Per Customer: Each ticketed customer is allowed only one pet carrier.
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Two Pets of the Same Species: You can have no more than two small cats or two small dogs of the same species in a single carrier, provided they can both fit comfortably and meet all other requirements.
Pro Tip: Practice with your dog at home! Get them accustomed to spending time in the carrier for extended periods. Make it a positive experience with treats and praise. This will significantly reduce their stress on travel day.
QuickTip: Focus on what feels most relevant.
Step 3: Make Your Pet's Reservation (Crucial!)
This is not something you can do online when booking your flight.
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Call Southwest Airlines Directly: To book travel with your pet, you must call Southwest Airlines at 1-800-I-FLY-SWA (1-800-435-9792).
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Limited Space: Southwest limits the number of pet carriers allowed on each flight to six (6) (excluding service animals). Pet acceptance is on a first-come, first-served basis. This means you need to make your pet's reservation well in advance to secure a spot, especially if you're traveling during peak times.
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Book Your Flight First: It's generally recommended to book your own flight first, then call Southwest to add your pet to your confirmed reservation.
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Information Needed: The representative will likely ask for your pet's name, breed, and weight.
Remember: Even if your flight is available, there might not be space for your pet. Call as soon as your travel plans are solid!
Step 4: Understand the Pet Fare
Bringing your dog on Southwest comes with a cost, and it's important to factor this into your travel budget.
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Fee Per Carrier, Per Direction: The current Pet Fare for U.S. Mainland flights is $125 per pet carrier, each way. So, a round trip would cost $250 for your pet.
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Hawaiian Inter-Island Travel: For flights between the Hawaiian Islands, the Pet Fare is $35 each way per pet carrier.
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Payment at the Airport: The Pet Fare must be paid at the airport ticket counter with an accepted credit card on the day of travel. You cannot pay this in advance online.
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Refundable Fare: The Pet Fare is refundable if you cancel your reservation.
Step 5: Preparing for Travel Day
The day of travel can be stressful for pets and owners alike. Proper preparation is key to a smooth experience.
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Health and Documentation:
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While Southwest generally does not require a health certificate or any other documentation from your veterinarian for pets to travel on domestic flights, it's always a good idea to confirm this directly with them closer to your travel date, as policies can change.
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However, it is always wise to carry your dog's vaccination records with you, especially their rabies certificate, in case of any unforeseen circumstances or local regulations at your destination.
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Ensure your pet is healthy and up-to-date on all vaccinations. Consider a vet visit before your trip to ensure they are fit for travel.
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Hydration and Potty Breaks:
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Do not sedate your pet unless specifically advised by a veterinarian. Sedation can lead to respiratory and cardiovascular problems at higher altitudes.
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Limit food intake a few hours before the flight to reduce the chance of an upset stomach.
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Make sure your dog has plenty of water before heading to the airport.
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Take your dog for a long potty break right before you head into the airport. Look up "pet relief areas" at your departure and arrival airports beforehand. Southwest will not "hold" a flight for you to take your pet to a relief area.
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Familiar Items: Include a familiar toy or blanket in the carrier to provide comfort and a sense of security for your dog.
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Collar and Leash: Have your dog's collar with ID tags and leash readily accessible.
Step 6: At the Airport: Check-In and Security
The airport experience with a pet has its own set of rules.
QuickTip: Pause at lists — they often summarize.
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Arrive Early: Southwest recommends arriving at the airport at least two hours, but no more than four hours, before your scheduled flight if you're traveling with a pet. This gives you ample time for check-in, paying the pet fee, and going through security.
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Ticket Counter Check-In: You must go to the Southwest Airlines ticket counter to check in with your dog. An agent will verify your pet and carrier meet the requirements and collect the pet fee. You cannot use online check-in, curbside check-in, or kiosks when traveling with a pet.
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Cabin Pet Tag: Once checked in, you'll receive a special "cabin pet" tag for your carrier.
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Security Checkpoint:
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At the security checkpoint, you will need to take your dog out of its carrier.
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You will hold your dog and walk through the screening device (metal detector or body scanner) while the empty carrier is X-rayed.
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All pet carriers are subject to being searched.
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In the Airport: Your pet must remain secured in its carrier at all times while in the gate area, during boarding/deplaning, and for the entire flight. The only exceptions are at the security checkpoint and designated pet relief areas.
Step 7: Boarding and In-Flight Experience
The final leg of your journey with your furry friend.
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Boarding Group: You will board the aircraft with your assigned boarding group, just like any other passenger.
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Seat Restrictions: If you're traveling with a pet, you cannot sit in an exit row or in bulkhead seats (seats in the very front of the cabin with a solid wall in front of them, as they typically don't have under-seat storage). The middle seat sometimes offers slightly more under-seat space for carriers.
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Under the Seat: Your pet carrier must be stowed under the seat in front of you for the entire flight. It cannot be on your lap, on an empty seat, or in the aisle.
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Stay in Carrier: Your dog must remain inside its carrier (including its head and tail) for the entire duration of the flight. Do not take your dog out of the carrier while onboard. Failure to follow this requirement can result in your pet being denied transportation on future flights.
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Pet Carrier as Carry-On: Your pet carrier counts as either your personal item or your carry-on bag. You may board with a pet carrier and a personal item OR a pet carrier and a regular-sized carry-on bag. You cannot bring all three.
By following these steps meticulously, you'll be well on your way to a successful and stress-free journey with your beloved dog on Southwest Airlines!
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about flying with your dog on Southwest Airlines, with quick answers:
How to Confirm My Dog's Eligibility for Southwest Flights?
Check Southwest's pet policy on their official website or by calling 1-800-I-FLY-SWA. Ensure your dog is a small, vaccinated cat or dog, at least 8 weeks old, and can fit comfortably under the seat in a compliant carrier.
How to Find the Right Pet Carrier for Southwest Airlines?
QuickTip: A careful read saves time later.
Choose a carrier (hard or soft-sided) no larger than 18.5″ L x 13.5″ W x 9.5″ H. It must be leak-proof, well-ventilated, and allow your dog to stand up and turn around inside.
How to Book My Dog's Travel on Southwest Airlines?
You must call Southwest Airlines at 1-800-I-FLY-SWA to make a pet reservation. Do this well in advance as there's a limit of six pets per flight.
How to Pay the Pet Fare on Southwest Airlines?
The pet fare of $125 each way (U.S. Mainland) or $35 (inter-island Hawaii) must be paid with a credit card at the airport ticket counter on your day of travel.
How to Prepare My Dog for the Flight?
Ensure your dog is well-exercised, has had a recent potty break, and has limited food intake before the flight. Avoid sedating your pet unless directed by a vet. Carry vaccination records.
How to Navigate Airport Security with My Dog?
QuickTip: Stop scrolling if you find value.
At the TSA checkpoint, you will need to remove your dog from its carrier and carry them through the screening device while the empty carrier goes through the X-ray machine.
How to Ensure My Dog Stays Comfortable During the Flight?
Keep your dog in its carrier under the seat for the entire flight. Provide a familiar blanket or toy in the carrier for comfort. Do not take them out of the carrier.
How to Find Pet Relief Areas at the Airport?
Most major airports have designated pet relief areas. Check the airport's website or app for locations before you arrive.
How to Know if My Dog is Considered a Service Animal by Southwest?
Southwest Airlines recognizes trained service dogs (including psychiatric service dogs) under different policies than pets, allowing them to fly free of charge with proper documentation (DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form). Emotional Support Animals are generally treated as regular pets.
How to Avoid Issues When Flying with My Dog on Southwest?
Plan far in advance, adhere strictly to carrier size and pet behavior rules, call Southwest to book your pet's spot, and arrive early at the airport for check-in.
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