How Do I Book a Flight for My Pet with Southwest Airlines?

Adding a pet to your Southwest flight involves a few specific steps to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience for both you and your furry companion. Southwest Airlines has clear guidelines and policies regarding pet travel, which are important to follow. Here’s a detailed guide on how to add pets to your Southwest flight:

Step 1: Understand the Pet Travel Policy

Before booking, familiarize yourself with Southwest Airlines' pet travel policy. Southwest allows small, vaccinated domestic cats and dogs to travel in the cabin. Pets are not permitted in the cargo area or on international flights. Each passenger is allowed one pet carrier, and each carrier can hold up to two small pets of the same species.

Step 2: Check Pet Travel Requirements

Ensure your pet meets the requirements for travel. The pet must be in a carrier that fits under the seat in front of you, and the carrier dimensions should not exceed 18.5” long x 8.5” high x 13.5” wide. The combined weight of the pet and the carrier should not exceed 20 pounds. Your pet should also be at least eight weeks old, healthy, and well-behaved.

Step 3: Make a Reservation

Southwest accepts pets on a first-come, first-served basis, with a limit of six pets per flight. To secure a spot for your pet, call Southwest Airlines customer support as early as possible. While making your reservation, inform the representative that you will be traveling with a pet. You can also add a pet to an existing reservation by calling customer support. Remember to have your booking reference number handy.

Step 4: Pay the Pet Fare

There is a non-refundable pet fare of $95 each way per pet carrier. This fee is payable when you book your pet's travel. Ensure you have a payment method ready when you call to make the reservation.

Step 5: Prepare the Carrier

Your pet’s carrier must be properly ventilated and leak-proof. It should be large enough for your pet to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Soft-sided and hard-sided carriers are both acceptable, but they must fit under the seat in front of you. Label the carrier with your name, contact information, and pet's name.

Step 6: Gather Necessary Documentation

While Southwest does not require a health certificate for pets traveling within the continental U.S., it’s a good idea to carry proof of your pet’s vaccinations and any other relevant medical information. This is particularly important if your travel plans change unexpectedly and you need to visit a veterinarian or board your pet.

Step 7: Check-In on the Day of Travel

On the day of travel, arrive at the airport early. You cannot check in online if you are traveling with a pet. Instead, you must check in at the ticket counter. Inform the agent that you are traveling with a pet, pay the pet fare if you haven’t already, and receive a special pet tag to attach to the carrier. Ensure your pet is secure and comfortable in the carrier before proceeding through security.

Step 8: Navigate Security

At the security checkpoint, you will need to remove your pet from the carrier and carry them through the metal detector while the carrier is scanned separately. Keep a leash handy to control your pet during this process. After passing through security, place your pet back in the carrier.

Step 9: Board the Plane

Board the plane with your pet carrier. Southwest Airlines does not allow pets to be seated in exit rows or occupy an extra seat. Place the carrier under the seat in front of you, ensuring your pet remains inside the carrier for the duration of the flight.

Step 10: During the Flight

Keep your pet calm and comfortable during the flight. Avoid opening the carrier or allowing your pet to roam the cabin. If your pet becomes anxious, try to soothe them with gentle words or a favorite toy.

Traveling with a pet on Southwest Airlines requires planning and adherence to the airline's guidelines. By following these steps, you can ensure a safe and comfortable journey for your pet. For more detailed information or specific queries, always refer to the Southwest Airlines website or contact their customer support.

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