Are you dreaming of taking your furry best friend with you on your next adventure, and wondering if Southwest Airlines is the way to go? You're in the right place! Flying with a pet can seem like a daunting task, but with the right information and a clear, step-by-step guide, you can make it a smooth and enjoyable experience for both you and your canine companion.
Let's dive into how much it costs to fly a dog on Southwest Airlines and all the essential details you need to know.
The Cost to Fly Your Dog on Southwest Airlines: The Quick Answer
The direct cost to fly your dog on Southwest Airlines is $95 each way per pet carrier. This is a non-refundable fee unless your reservation is canceled.
However, the financial cost is just one piece of the puzzle. There are other considerations, from carrier requirements to booking procedures, that play a significant role in the overall "cost" of traveling with your dog, including your time and preparation.
 |
| How Much Does It Cost To Fly A Dog On Southwest Airlines |
Step 1: Are You and Your Dog Eligible? Let's Find Out!
Before you even think about booking, let's confirm if Southwest Airlines is the right fit for your canine travel plans. This is where you, the user, come in!
Do you have a small dog or cat? Southwest only allows small, vaccinated domestic cats and dogs to travel in the cabin. They do not accept pets as cargo or checked baggage.
Is your dog at least 8 weeks old? This is a non-negotiable age requirement.
Can your dog comfortably fit in a carrier that goes under the seat in front of you? This is the most crucial physical requirement. Your dog must be able to stand up and turn around in the carrier with ease.
Are you traveling on a domestic flight? Southwest does not allow pets on international flights, or flights to/from Hawaii. However, they do permit pets on flights between Hawaiian islands.
Are you an unaccompanied minor? Unaccompanied minors are not allowed to travel with a pet.
If you answered "no" to any of these questions (except the last one), Southwest Airlines might not be the best option for your pet's travel. But if you're a "yes" across the board, let's move on!
Step 2: Understanding Southwest's Pet Policy and Restrictions
Now that you know your dog might be eligible, let's get into the specifics of Southwest's pet policy. This is where you'll find the nitty-gritty details that ensure a seamless journey.
In-Cabin Travel Only: No Cargo for Fido!
QuickTip: Reflect before moving to the next part.
A key differentiator for Southwest Airlines is that they only allow pets to travel in the cabin. This means your dog will be with you throughout the flight, tucked safely under the seat in front of you. While this offers peace of mind for many pet parents, it also means larger dogs cannot fly on Southwest.
Limited Spots Available
Southwest Airlines limits the number of pet carriers allowed on each flight, typically to six pet carriers per scheduled flight. This is on a first-come, first-served basis, so early booking is absolutely essential! While exceptions can sometimes be made for more (or fewer) pet carriers, it's best to assume the limit.
Pet Carrier Requirements: The Crate Expectations
Your pet carrier is your dog's ticket to ride! It must adhere to strict guidelines:
Size: The maximum dimensions for a pet carrier are generally 18.5 inches long x 8.5 inches high x 13.5 inches wide (L x H x W) to fit under the seat. Southwest also sells their own branded pet carrier which is 17" (L) x 10" (W) x 9.5" (H) and is always permitted.
Type: Both soft-sided and hard-sided carriers are accepted, as long as they are designed specifically as pet carriers.
Functionality: The carrier must be leak-proof and well-ventilated. Your dog must be able to stand up and turn around comfortably inside the carrier.
"Carry-on" Status: Your pet carrier counts as either your personal item or your carry-on bag. You can bring either a pet carrier and a personal item, OR a pet carrier and a regular-sized carry-on bag.
In-flight rules: Your pet 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 rule can result in denial of transportation.
Where You Can't Sit
If you're traveling with a pet, you will not be allowed to sit in an exit row or a bulkhead seat. This is for safety reasons and to ensure your pet's carrier can be properly stowed.
Health Documentation: Less is More (for Southwest)
Unlike some other airlines, Southwest Airlines does not require a health certificate or any other documentation from your veterinarian for your pet to travel. However, it's always a good idea to ensure your pet is up-to-date on vaccinations and healthy enough to travel, and to consult with your vet if you have any concerns. Some destinations, especially Puerto Rico, might have specific requirements, so always check those.
QuickTip: Pause at transitions — they signal new ideas.
Disruptive Behavior
Southwest reserves the right to refuse transportation to any animal due to illness, aggressive behavior, poor kenneling, or extreme temperatures at origin, transfer, or destination airports. Examples of disruptive behavior include scratching, excessive barking or whining, growling, biting, or lunging.
Step 3: Making Your Pet's Reservation
This is a crucial step that cannot be done online.
Book Your Own Flight First: Secure your own reservation with Southwest Airlines.
Call Southwest Airlines: Once your flight is confirmed, immediately call Southwest Airlines at 1-800-I-FLY-SWA (1-800-435-9792).
Request to Add Your Pet: Inform the customer service representative that you wish to add a pet to your reservation. They will ask for your pet's name, breed, and potentially weight.
Confirm Availability: The representative will check if there is space available for your pet on your chosen flight(s). Remember, there's a limit of six pet carriers per flight.
Get Confirmation: Ensure the pet is added to your reservation. While you can't pay the fee over the phone, having the pet noted on your booking effectively "holds" the spot.
Pro Tip: Book as early as possible! Given the limited pet spots, especially during peak travel times, the sooner you book your flight and call to add your pet, the better your chances of securing a spot.
Step 4: The Day of Travel: Airport Procedures
The day of your flight requires a bit of extra planning when traveling with a dog.
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 allows ample time for all necessary procedures.
Head to the Ticket Counter: You cannot pay the pet fee online or at a self-service kiosk. You must go to the Southwest Airlines ticket counter to check in with your dog and carrier.
Pay the Pet Fee: At the counter, a Southwest agent will verify that your pet and carrier meet the requirements and collect the $95 each way pet fee (payable by accepted credit cards).
Receive Your Pet Tag: Once the fee is paid and everything is confirmed, you'll receive a special tag for your pet carrier.
Security Checkpoint: At the security checkpoint, you will need to take your dog out of its carrier and hold it while the carrier is X-rayed. All pet carriers are subject to being searched.
Pet Relief Areas: Familiarize yourself with the location of pet relief areas at the airport. Remember, 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. Your pet must remain in its carrier while in the gate area, during boarding/deplaning, and throughout the flight.
Step 5: Onboard the Aircraft
Once you're on the plane, there are a few final rules to keep in mind for a smooth journey.
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 inside its carrier for the entire duration of the flight. You are not permitted to take your dog out of the carrier while the plane is in flight.
No Exit Row/Bulkhead: As mentioned, you will not be seated in an exit row or a seat with no under-seat stowage.
Comfort: While Southwest doesn't require health certificates, it's important to consider your pet's comfort and well-being. Ensure they have had a chance to relieve themselves before boarding and have a comfortable space within their carrier.
Related FAQ Questions
QuickTip: Don’t rush through examples.
How to book a flight with my dog on Southwest Airlines?
You must first book your own flight online, then call Southwest Airlines at 1-800-I-FLY-SWA (1-800-435-9792) to add your dog to your reservation.
How to pay the pet fee for Southwest Airlines?
The pet fee of $95 each way must be paid at the airport ticket counter with an accepted credit card on the day of your travel.
How to find out if my pet carrier meets Southwest Airlines' requirements?
Ensure your carrier is no larger than 18.5" L x 8.5" H x 13.5" W, is leak-proof, well-ventilated, and allows your dog to stand up and turn around comfortably. Southwest also sells a compliant carrier.
How to ensure there's space for my dog on the flight?
Since Southwest limits pets to six carriers per flight, it's crucial to book your flight and then call Southwest to add your pet as early as possible to secure a spot.
How to prepare my dog for a flight on Southwest Airlines?
Ensure your dog is at least 8 weeks old, has had a recent vet check-up if you have concerns, and is comfortable spending time in its carrier. Allow for plenty of exercise and bathroom breaks before the flight.
Tip: Stop when confused — clarity comes with patience.
How to check in with my dog at the airport for Southwest Airlines?
You must check in at the Southwest Airlines ticket counter with your dog and carrier to pay the fee and get your pet tag.
How to go through airport security with my dog on Southwest Airlines?
You will need to take your dog out of its carrier and hold it while the carrier goes through the X-ray machine. Your dog must be secured in its carrier at all other times in the airport.
How to handle my dog during the flight on Southwest Airlines?
Your dog must remain inside its carrier, stowed under the seat in front of you, for the entire duration of the flight.
How to find pet relief areas at the airport when flying with Southwest?
Most airports have designated pet relief areas. Check the airport's website or ask an airport employee upon arrival for directions.
How to get a refund for the Southwest Airlines pet fee?
The pet fare is refundable if you cancel your reservation or if your flight is canceled by the airline.
 |
