Southwest Airlines Pet Travel

5.0 (1 review)
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Recently shared Southwest Airlines pet travel experiences

Southwest Airlines
5.0
San Diego
Indianapolis
05/06/2024

FAQ about Southwest Airlines pet policy

What types of animals are permitted in the cabin of the aircraft?
Only small vaccinated domestic cats and dogs are allowed in the cabin.

What are the size and weight restrictions for animals allowed in the cabin?
There are no specific size and weight restrictions mentioned; however, pets must fit comfortably in their carriers under the seat.

What are the specifications for in-cabin pet carriers, including dimensions and materials?
Pet carriers should be soft-sided and able to fit under the seat. The dimensions for these carriers should not exceed 18.5” long x 8.5” high x 13.5” wide.

Are there specific requirements for cargo pet boxes, and if so, what are the size guidelines?
Southwest Airlines does not transport pets in the cargo compartment, so no specifications are provided for cargo pet boxes.

What is the pricing structure for bringing a pet on board, and are there any additional fees or charges associated with it?
The Pet Fare is $125 each way per pet carrier for domestic flights and $95 for interisland Hawaii flights. No additional fees are mentioned.

Is there a limit to the number of pets allowed on a single flight?
Yes, Southwest Airlines limits the number of pets per flight, although the exact number is not specified.

Are there breed restrictions or specific health requirements for pets traveling in the cabin or cargo hold?
There are no breed restrictions mentioned for pets traveling in the cabin since only dogs and cats are allowed. Pets must be vaccinated.

What documentation or health certificates are necessary for traveling with a pet?
Pets must have a health certificate issued by a veterinarian within ten days of travel.

Are there restrictions on the duration of the flight for pets, especially in cargo?
Since pets are not transported in the cargo compartment, no such restrictions are mentioned. For in-cabin travel, standard flight durations apply without specific restrictions.

What is the airline's policy regarding sedation or tranquilizers for pets during the flight?
Southwest Airlines advises against the use of sedatives for pets traveling in the cabin as it can pose health risks.

Are there any temperature-related restrictions for pet travel, especially in cargo?
Since Southwest does not transport pets in cargo, there are no temperature-related restrictions mentioned.

What are the procedures for booking a flight with a pet, and can I do it online?
Pets cannot be booked online; reservations for pets must be made in advance by calling the airline’s customer service due to the limited availability per flight.

Are there any special requirements for international travel with pets, such as quarantine or additional documentation?
Southwest Airlines only allows pets on domestic flights and between the Hawaiian Islands, so no international travel policies for pets are specified.

Is there a dedicated support line or customer service team for pet-related inquiries and assistance?
While a specific pet-only support line isn’t mentioned, Southwest’s general customer service team handles inquiries related to traveling with pets.