It's wonderful that you're planning to bring your furry companion along on your Southwest Airlines adventure! Traveling with a dog can be a fantastic experience, but it requires careful planning to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey for both of you. Let's dive into a comprehensive, step-by-step guide on how to make your dog's flight on Southwest a reality.
Bringing Your Best Friend on Board: A Southwest Airlines Guide
Step 1: Are You and Your Pup Ready for Takeoff?
Before we even think about booking tickets, let's address the most crucial question: Is your dog genuinely suited for air travel? Traveling can be a new and sometimes stressful experience for animals, even in the cabin.
Consider your dog's personality: Is your dog generally calm, adaptable, and comfortable in new environments? Or do they get anxious in confined spaces or around strangers? A highly anxious or reactive dog might find air travel extremely distressing.
Age and health are key: Southwest requires dogs to be at least 8 weeks old and fully vaccinated. Beyond that, consult your veterinarian. Discuss your travel plans with them and ensure your dog is in good health to fly. Certain breeds, especially brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds, can have respiratory issues exacerbated by air travel, even in the cabin.
Training and behavior: Your dog must be well-behaved and non-disruptive. This means no excessive barking, growling, biting, or lunging. They must be able to remain quietly in their carrier for the entire flight. Southwest can deny boarding to disruptive pets.
If you've considered these points and feel confident your dog is a good candidate, let's move on!
Step 2: Understanding Southwest's Pet Policy: The Essentials
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Southwest Airlines has specific rules for pet travel. Knowing these upfront will save you headaches later.
In-Cabin Only: Southwest only allows small, vaccinated domestic cats and dogs to travel in the cabin. They do not transport pets as checked baggage or cargo. This is a significant point to remember, as it immediately limits the size of dog you can bring.
Domestic Flights Only (with exceptions): Pets are welcome on domestic flights within the United States and to Puerto Rico. Southwest does not accept pets on flights to or from Hawaii or on international itineraries.
One Pet Carrier Per Customer: Each ticketed customer is allowed to bring one pet carrier.
Two of the Same Species Per Carrier (Maximum): Your single pet carrier can contain no more than two of the same species of small cat or dog, provided they fit comfortably and can stand up and turn around.
Limited Space: Southwest limits the number of pet carriers allowed on each flight, typically to a maximum of six. These spots are on a first-come, first-served basis. This is why booking early is absolutely critical!
Pet Fare: There is a non-refundable pet fare of $95 each way per pet carrier (as of current policy, always double-check the latest fees on Southwest's website). For travel between Hawaiian Islands, the fee is $35 each way.
No Unaccompanied Minors with Pets: Unaccompanied minors are not permitted to travel with a pet.
No Exit Rows or Bulkhead Seats: If you're traveling with a pet, you cannot sit in an emergency exit row or seats where there is no forward under-seat stowage.
Step 3: The All-Important Pet Carrier
Your pet's carrier is their home for the duration of the journey, and it must meet Southwest's strict requirements.
Maximum Dimensions: The carrier must not exceed 18.5 inches (length) x 13.5 inches (width) x 9.5 inches (height). It must fit under the seat in front of you.
Soft-Sided or Hard-Sided: Both soft-sided and hard-sided carriers are acceptable, as long as they meet the dimension requirements. Soft-sided carriers often offer a bit more flexibility for fitting under the seat.
Ventilation and Leak-Proof: The carrier must be well-ventilated on at least three sides (preferably four) and completely leak-proof.
Comfort for Your Pet: Your dog must be able to stand up and turn around comfortably inside the carrier. If your pet looks cramped, they might be denied boarding.
Counts as Carry-on: The pet carrier counts as either your personal item or your carry-on bag. You cannot bring a pet carrier, a regular-sized carry-on, and a personal item simultaneously.
Pro-tip: Start acclimating your dog to the carrier well in advance of your travel date. Make it a positive space with treats and toys.
Step 4: Making Your Reservation: The Crucial First Call
This is where many first-time pet travelers make a mistake – you can't book your pet online!
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Book Your Human Ticket First: Go ahead and book your own flight on Southwest's website or app.
Call Southwest Immediately: As soon as your flight is confirmed, call Southwest Airlines directly to add your pet to your reservation. The number to call for pet reservations is usually 1-800-I-FLY-SWA (1-800-435-9792).
Limited Spots, Act Fast: Remember the six-pet-carrier limit per flight. Calling immediately after booking your own ticket significantly increases your chances of securing a spot for your dog. If the flight is already at capacity for pets, you'll need to find an alternative flight.
Provide Pet Details: The representative will likely ask for your pet's name, breed, and potentially their weight (though the primary concern is fitting in the carrier).
Important Note: While some online sources might mention a $125 fee, the most current information from Southwest's official site indicates $95 each way per pet carrier. Always confirm the exact fee when you call to make your reservation.
Step 5: Pre-Flight Preparation: Getting Ready for the Big Day
The days leading up to your flight are crucial for reducing stress for both you and your dog.
Veterinary Check-up (Recommended): Even though Southwest doesn't require a health certificate for domestic travel, a pre-flight vet check-up is highly recommended. Your vet can confirm your dog's health, discuss any potential anxieties, and provide advice. They might even suggest mild sedatives if appropriate for your dog, but always discuss this with your vet first as some sedatives can have adverse effects at altitude.
Exercise and Potty Breaks: On the day of travel, ensure your dog gets plenty of exercise before heading to the airport. A tired dog is a calm dog. Also, make sure they have ample opportunities to relieve themselves just before you enter the airport.
Familiarize with the Carrier: Continue to make the carrier a positive place. Put familiar blankets or toys inside.
Packing Your Pet's Essentials:
Absorbent pad for the carrier: Accidents can happen!
Small, collapsible water bowl and a small amount of water.
A favorite toy or chew item (non-squeaky!)
Waste bags.
Any necessary medications.
Copy of vaccination records (for your peace of mind, even if not required by Southwest).
A comfortable harness and leash.
Grooming: Ensure your dog is clean and well-groomed to minimize odors in the cabin.
Step 6: Airport Day: Navigating Check-in and Security
The airport experience can be overwhelming, so arrive with plenty of time to spare.
Arrive Early: Southwest recommends arriving at the airport at least two hours before your scheduled flight when traveling with a pet. This allows ample time for check-in, paying the pet fare, security screening, and finding pet relief areas.
Ticket Counter Check-in: You must check in with your pet at the Southwest Airlines airport ticket counter. You cannot use online check-in or curbside check-in if you're traveling with a pet. This is where you'll pay the pet fare and receive a special tag for your pet carrier.
Security Checkpoint (TSA):
When you reach the security checkpoint, you will need to remove your dog from the carrier.
You will then carry your dog through the metal detector.
The empty pet carrier will go through the X-ray machine.
Keep your dog on a leash at all times during this process.
All pet carriers are subject to being searched.
Pet Relief Areas: Most airports have designated pet relief areas. Familiarize yourself with their locations at your departure and arrival airports. Southwest will not "hold" a flight for you to take your pet to a relief area.
Boarding: Customers traveling with pets will board with their assigned boarding group.
Step 7: Onboard the Aircraft: Settling In
QuickTip: Keep going — the next point may connect.
Once you're on the plane, the key is to ensure your dog remains comfortable and adheres to the rules.
Under the Seat: Your pet carrier must be stowed under the seat in front of you for the entire flight, including taxi, takeoff, and landing.
Remain in Carrier: Your dog must remain secured in the pet carrier at all times while in the gate area, during boarding/deplaning, and for the entire duration of the flight. Failure to follow this requirement may result in your pet being denied transportation on future flights or even you being escorted off the flight.
No Blocking Aisles or Neighboring Seats: Your pet or carrier is not permitted to block any exits or exit paths, extend into the aircraft aisle, occupy an aircraft seat, occupy a tray table, or encroach upon a neighboring seat.
Comfort and Monitoring: Keep an eye on your dog. While they should be in their carrier, you can talk to them quietly to reassure them. Avoid giving them food or excessive water during the flight to minimize the need for bathroom breaks.
Step 8: Arrival: Disembarking and Beyond
Wait Your Turn: Remain seated until it's safe to disembark.
Leash Up: Once you're off the plane and in a safe area, you can take your dog out of the carrier, but keep them on a leash.
Find Relief: Head to the nearest pet relief area as soon as possible after landing.
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| How To Bring A Dog On Southwest Airlines |
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to find pet relief areas at the airport? Most major airports have designated pet relief areas both pre- and post-security. Check the airport's website or use an airport map app. Look for signs at the airport, or ask an airport employee for directions.
How to choose the right size carrier for my dog? Measure your dog from the tip of their nose to the base of their tail and from the top of their head to the ground. The carrier must be large enough for them to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably without touching the top or sides. Ensure it meets Southwest's maximum dimensions (18.5" L x 13.5" W x 9.5" H).
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How to acclimate my dog to the pet carrier before the flight? Start weeks or even months in advance. Leave the carrier open with treats and toys inside. Encourage your dog to enter voluntarily. Gradually increase the time they spend inside, and practice zipping it up for short periods. Take them on short car rides in the carrier.
How to manage my dog's anxiety during the flight? Ensure plenty of exercise before the flight. Familiar scents (like a blanket from home) in the carrier can be comforting. Avoid overfeeding right before or during the flight. Consult your vet about calming aids or mild sedatives if your dog is prone to extreme anxiety, but always weigh the pros and cons.
How to check if my specific flight has pet availability? You can't check pet availability online. You must call Southwest Airlines directly after booking your own ticket. The phone number is 1-800-I-FLY-SWA (1-800-435-9792).
How to pay the pet fare for Southwest Airlines? The pet fare ($95 each way per pet carrier) must be paid at the airport ticket counter on your day of travel using an accepted credit card. You cannot pay it in advance or online.
How to handle bathroom breaks during a long layover with my dog? Research the pet relief areas at your layover airport beforehand. Allow ample time between connecting flights to take your dog out of their carrier for a potty break and a stretch.
How to ensure my dog stays hydrated during the flight? Offer a small amount of water in a collapsible bowl before and after the flight. During the flight, only offer water if necessary, and in very small amounts, to minimize the need for bathroom breaks. An absorbent pad in the carrier is crucial.
How to differentiate between a pet, an emotional support animal (ESA), and a service animal on Southwest? As of recent regulations, Southwest Airlines, like other major carriers, no longer recognizes Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) as service animals; ESAs now travel under the standard pet policy with associated fees and carrier requirements. Only fully trained service dogs (individually trained to perform tasks for a person with a disability) are permitted to fly outside a carrier and typically without a fee, requiring specific U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) forms.
How to get a refund for the pet fare if my travel plans change? According to Southwest's policy, the pet fare is refundable if you cancel your reservation. Contact Southwest Airlines customer service to process the refund if your plans change and your dog no longer travels.
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