Traveling with your furry friend on Southwest Airlines? Understanding their pet policy, especially the pet fees, is crucial for a smooth journey. Southwest welcomes small vaccinated domestic cats and dogs to travel with you in the cabin, but it’s important to be aware of the costs and regulations involved. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about Southwest Airlines pet fees to ensure you and your pet are well-prepared for your flight.
Southwest Airlines In-Cabin Pet Policy
Southwest Airlines makes it possible to bring your small, vaccinated domestic cat or dog with you right in the cabin. This can be a much more comfortable and less stressful option for your pet compared to cargo travel. However, there are specific rules and fees you need to be aware of to take advantage of this service.
Pet Carrier Requirements
To bring your pet onboard, they must be carried in a suitable pet carrier. This carrier is important for the safety and comfort of your pet, as well as for other passengers. Here are the key requirements for pet carriers on Southwest:
- Size: The pet carrier counts as either a carryon item or a personal item. This means it must fit under the seat in front of you. While Southwest doesn’t specify exact dimensions for pet carriers, it’s generally recommended to choose a carrier that is no larger than 18.5” x 8.5” x 13.5” to comfortably fit under most airline seats. Soft-sided carriers are often more adaptable and easier to fit.
- Type: Carriers can be hard-sided or soft-sided, but must be leak-proof and well-ventilated.
- Containment: Your pet must be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably inside the carrier. Critically, your pet must remain entirely inside the carrier for the duration of the flight, from boarding until deplaning.
Southwest Airlines Pet Fee
Traveling with your pet on Southwest Airlines incurs a pet fee. As of the latest information, the pet fee is $125 each way, per pet carrier. It’s important to note:
- Non-refundable: This fee is non-refundable, even if your plans change.
- Subject to change: Southwest Airlines explicitly states that “Pet Fare is subject to change at any time.” Therefore, it’s always best to confirm the current fee when booking your flight and closer to your travel date.
- Per carrier: The fee is per pet carrier, not per pet. You can have one or two small pets in one carrier, but the fee remains the same per carrier. However, Southwest permits only one pet carrier per paying customer.
Important Considerations for Pet Travel on Southwest
Beyond the pet fee, here are other important aspects to consider when flying Southwest with your pet:
- Vaccinations: Ensure your pet is up-to-date on all necessary vaccinations and has the required health documentation. While Southwest doesn’t routinely ask for health certificates for domestic travel, it’s always wise to travel with proof of rabies vaccination.
- Limited Pet Spots: Southwest Airlines limits the number of pets allowed on each flight. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis. To secure a spot for your pet, it’s recommended to add your pet to your reservation as early as possible, ideally when you book your own ticket. You can do this online or by calling Southwest Customer Service.
- Breed Restrictions: Southwest Airlines generally accepts most breeds of domestic cats and dogs. However, it’s always prudent to confirm if there are any specific breed restrictions or temporary embargoes, especially for certain destinations or during peak travel periods.
- Travel to Hawaii: If you are traveling to Hawaii with your pet, there are very specific and stringent quarantine regulations in place. It’s crucial to thoroughly research and comply with Hawaii’s pet import requirements well in advance of your trip, as these are separate from Southwest’s pet fees and policies.
- Emotional Support Animals and Service Animals: It’s important to note that the rules and fees discussed here pertain to pets. Southwest Airlines, like most US airlines, has specific policies for trained service animals that are different from their pet policies, and emotional support animals are no longer classified as service animals by the DOT and are generally treated as pets. Always check the most current Southwest policy for service animals if that applies to your situation.
Conclusion
Traveling with your pet on Southwest Airlines can be a convenient option, thanks to their in-cabin pet policy. However, being fully informed about the Pet Fee Southwest and all associated regulations is essential for a stress-free travel experience for both you and your beloved companion. Always verify the current pet fee and specific policy details directly with Southwest Airlines before your travel date to ensure a smooth and happy journey.
