Fly the Friendly Skies with Your Furry Companion: Southwest Airlines' Guide to Traveling with Dogs

Fly with your furry friend on Southwest! Learn about their pet policy, fees, and requirements for traveling with your dog.

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Are you planning to fly with your furry friend on Southwest Airlines? If so, you're in luck! Southwest Airlines is one of the few airlines that allow pets to fly in-cabin with their owners. But before you and your pup take to the skies, there are some important things you need to know. In this article, we'll guide you through the process of flying with your dog on Southwest, from booking your ticket to preparing for the flight.

First and foremost, it's important to note that not all pets are eligible to fly with Southwest. Only cats and dogs are allowed, and they must meet certain requirements in order to be allowed on board. Additionally, there are restrictions on the number of pets allowed on each flight, so it's important to book your ticket as early as possible to ensure that there is space for your furry friend.

But don't worry - if you follow the guidelines and prepare properly, flying with your dog on Southwest can be a stress-free and enjoyable experience. So buckle up, grab your pup, and let's get ready to take to the skies!

Fly With Your Dog on Southwest Airlines

Southwest Airlines is one of the most popular airlines in the United States, known for its low fares and friendly service. If you're planning to travel with your furry companion, you'll be happy to know that Southwest allows dogs to fly with their owners. Here's what you need to know about flying with your dog on Southwest.

Types of Dogs Allowed on Southwest

Southwest allows domestic dogs, cats, and household birds to fly as pets. However, only dogs are allowed to travel as emotional support animals or service animals. The airline doesn't allow any other types of animals, including reptiles, rodents, insects, and spiders.

Booking Your Flight with a Dog

If you're traveling with a dog, you'll need to book your flight over the phone or at the airport, as Southwest's website doesn't allow pet bookings. You'll also need to inform the airline that you'll be traveling with a pet and pay the pet fee, which is $95 each way per pet. It's recommended to book your flight early, as Southwest has a limit on the number of pets allowed on each flight.

Preparing Your Dog for the Flight

Before the flight, it's important to prepare your dog for the journey. Make sure your dog is up-to-date on vaccinations and has a health certificate from a veterinarian if required. You'll also need to get an airline-approved pet carrier that meets Southwest's size requirements, which are 18.5 x 8.5 x 13.5. Introduce your dog to the carrier before the trip to make them comfortable inside it.

Check-In and Boarding with Your Dog

When you arrive at the airport, you'll need to check in with your dog and pay the pet fee. You'll also need to present the health certificate and proof of vaccination if requested. During security screening, you'll need to take your dog out of the carrier and hold them while you and the carrier go through the metal detector. When it's time to board the plane, you'll need to stow the carrier under the seat in front of you.

In-Flight with Your Dog

During the flight, your dog must stay inside the carrier under the seat in front of you at all times. You're not allowed to take your dog out of the carrier or hold them on your lap during the flight. It's recommended to avoid feeding your dog in the few hours before the flight to prevent motion sickness. You can, however, give them water during the flight.

Arriving at Your Destination with Your Dog

When you arrive at your destination, you'll need to collect your luggage and your dog from baggage claim. If you have a connecting flight, you'll need to check in with your dog again and go through security screening. It's recommended to take your dog for a walk and let them use the bathroom before leaving the airport.

Tips for Traveling with Your Dog on Southwest

Here are some tips to make your trip with your dog on Southwest more comfortable:

• Choose a non-stop flight to minimize travel time.
• Book a seat near the window for more space and less disturbance.
• Exercise your dog before the flight to tire them out.
• Bring a familiar blanket or toy to comfort your dog.
• Avoid tranquilizing your dog, as it can cause breathing problems at high altitudes.

Final Thoughts

Flying with your dog on Southwest can be a convenient and enjoyable experience if you follow the guidelines and prepare your dog for the trip. Remember to book early, get an airline-approved carrier, and take care of your dog's needs during the flight. With these tips, you and your furry friend can fly with ease on Southwest Airlines.

Flying with your dog on Southwest Airlines can be a great experience for both you and your furry friend, but it’s important to follow the proper guidelines to ensure a safe and comfortable journey. Before you fly, make sure to complete a pre-flight checklist for your dog on Southwest. This includes ensuring that your pet is up-to-date on all vaccinations and obtaining any necessary health certificates. Additionally, Southwest Airlines has specific pet policies that you must adhere to when traveling with your dog. These policies include restrictions on certain breeds and requirements for pet carriers. When booking your flight with Southwest, make sure to indicate that you will be traveling with a pet so that you are seated in a pet-friendly section of the plane.Southwest Airlines allows dogs and cats to travel in the cabin of the plane, but there are specific types of pets that are not allowed to fly due to their size and potential health issues. Your pet must also be in an airline-approved carrier that meets certain size requirements. Choosing the right carrier is important for your pet’s safety and comfort during the flight.When going through TSA, your dog will need to be removed from their carrier for a security screening. It’s important to prepare your pet for this process ahead of time. When boarding the flight, your dog must remain in their carrier until you have reached your seat. Once you are seated, you will be able to take your dog out of the carrier and keep them on your lap.Flying can be stressful for pets, so it’s important to bring along their favorite toys, treats, and blankets to help them feel more comfortable. After landing, there are certain steps you should take to ensure that your dog is healthy and comfortable, such as offering them water and taking them for a bathroom break.If you still have questions about flying with your dog on Southwest Airlines, check out our FAQ section for answers to common questions about pet travel. By following these guidelines and being prepared, you can enjoy a stress-free and enjoyable flight with your furry friend.

As an expert in the airline industry, I can provide valuable insight into flying with your dog on Southwest Airlines. Here are some pros and cons to consider:

Pros:

1. Southwest Airlines allows small pets to travel in the cabin with their owners for a fee of $95 each way.
2. Small pets must be able to fit comfortably in a carrier under the seat in front of you.
3. Southwest allows only six pet carriers per flight, so it is important to book your pet's reservation early.
4. Traveling with your pet can be comforting for both you and your furry friend, especially during times of stress or anxiety.

Cons:

• Not all pets may be comfortable or safe traveling in the cabin of an airplane, especially if they are not used to being confined to a carrier for an extended period of time.
• Some pets may become anxious or agitated during the flight, which could cause disruptions to other passengers.
• There is always a risk of your pet experiencing health issues during air travel, such as dehydration or respiratory problems.
• If your pet does not meet the size or weight requirements for cabin travel, you will need to make other arrangements for their transportation.

Overall, flying with your dog on Southwest Airlines can be a convenient and enjoyable experience if you take the necessary precautions and consider your pet's comfort and safety at all times.

Are you thinking of flying with your furry friend on Southwest Airlines? You're not alone! Many pet owners prefer to travel with their pets, and Southwest Airlines understands that. That's why the airline allows dogs and cats to travel as long as they meet specific requirements. Keep reading to learn more about flying with your dog on Southwest Airlines.

Firstly, it's important to know that Southwest Airlines only allows small dogs and cats to travel in the cabin. Your pet must fit comfortably inside a carrier that you can place under the seat in front of you. Additionally, you'll need to pay a pet fare of $95 each way per pet. It's also essential to note that only six pets are permitted on each flight, so be sure to book your reservation early to secure a spot for your furry companion.

When it comes to preparing for your trip, there are several things you can do to make your dog's experience as smooth as possible. A few days before your flight, take your pet to the vet for a checkup and ensure all vaccinations are up-to-date. Also, make sure that your pet's carrier is airline-approved, and your furry friend is comfortable spending time in it. Lastly, bring along plenty of food, water, and any necessary medications to keep your pet happy and healthy during the flight.

In conclusion, if you're looking to fly with your dog on Southwest Airlines, it's certainly possible. Just remember to follow the airline's guidelines, prepare well in advance and keep your furry friend's comfort and safety in mind throughout the journey. We hope this article has been helpful, and we wish you and your four-legged companion a safe and enjoyable flight!

As a service animal, dogs are allowed to fly on Southwest Airlines with their owners. However, there are certain rules and guidelines that must be followed in order to ensure a smooth and safe flying experience for all passengers.

Here are some common questions that people ask about flying with a dog on Southwest:

• 1. What kind of dogs can fly on Southwest?

Southwest Airlines allows dogs that are trained to assist people with disabilities to fly in-cabin. This includes guide dogs for the blind, signal dogs for the deaf, psychiatric service dogs, and other types of service animals. Emotional support animals (ESA) are also allowed, but they must meet certain requirements and have appropriate documentation.

• 2. What documentation do I need to fly with my dog on Southwest?

Southwest requires that all service animals have appropriate documentation, such as a doctor's note or other certification, that verifies the animal's role as a service animal. If you are traveling with an emotional support animal, you will need to submit a letter from a licensed mental health professional that states your need for the animal. This documentation must be presented at the gate prior to boarding.

• 3. Do I need to pay extra to bring my dog on Southwest?

No, Southwest does not charge a fee for service animals or emotional support animals. However, if your dog is not a trained service animal and does not meet the requirements for an ESA, you will need to pay a pet fee and follow Southwest's pet travel guidelines.

• 4. What are the rules for flying with a dog on Southwest?

When flying with a service animal or ESA, Southwest requires that the animal remain under your control at all times and behave appropriately. The animal must be leashed or harnessed and cannot occupy a seat or block the aisle. Additionally, the animal must not pose a threat or create a disturbance to other passengers.

• 5. Can my dog sit on my lap during the flight?

No, dogs are not allowed to sit on your lap during the flight. They must remain on the floor at your feet or under the seat in front of you. If your dog is too large to fit comfortably in this space, you may need to purchase an additional seat or consider alternative travel arrangements.

By following these guidelines and being respectful of other passengers, flying with a service animal or ESA can be a positive experience for both you and your furry companion.