A Comprehensive Guide to Southwest's Animal Policy

Introduction

Traveling with your furry companion can be a hassle. But it doesn't have to be, especially when you're flying with Southwest. Southwest Airlines has one of the most pet-friendly policies in the industry, making it a great choice for pet owners.

In this article, we'll cover everything you need to know about Southwest's animal policy, including:

• What types of animals are allowed on Southwest flights
• How to book a flight with your pet
• What to expect at the airport and on the plane
• Fees and restrictions

Types of animals allowed

Southwest Airlines allows the following types of animals on their flights:

• Dogs
• Cats
• Rabbits
• Small birds

Booking a flight with your pet

To book a flight with your pet, you'll need to call Southwest Airlines at 1-800-435-9792. You can't book a flight with your pet online.

When you call, you'll need to provide the following information:

• Your pet's type, size, and weight
• Your pet's vaccination records
• Your pet's health certificate

At the airport

When you arrive at the airport, you'll need to check in your pet at the ticket counter. You'll need to present your pet's vaccination records and health certificate.

Your pet will need to be in a carrier that is approved by Southwest Airlines. The carrier must be large enough for your pet to stand up and turn around in.

On the plane

Your pet will ride in the cabin with you. You'll need to keep your pet in its carrier at all times, except when you're taking it out to use the bathroom.

Southwest Airlines provides water bowls for pets on all flights.

Fees and restrictions

There is a fee to bring your pet on a Southwest flight. The fee is $95 per pet, each way.

There are some restrictions on bringing pets on Southwest flights. For example, pets are not allowed on flights to or from Hawaii or international flights.

Pros and cons of flying with your pet on Southwest

Pros:

• Southwest Airlines has a very pet-friendly policy.
• The fees for bringing your pet on a Southwest flight are reasonable.
• Southwest Airlines provides water bowls for pets on all flights.

Cons:

• You can't book a flight with your pet online.
• Pets are not allowed on flights to or from Hawaii or international flights.

Stories

Story 1:

A woman named Sarah flew Southwest with her dog, Max. She said that the experience was great. The Southwest Airlines staff was very friendly and helpful. Sarah and Max even got their own water bowls on the flight.

What we learn:

Southwest Airlines is a great option for pet owners who want to travel with their furry friends. The staff is friendly and helpful, and the fees are reasonable.

Story 2:

A man named John flew Southwest with his cat, Whiskers. He said that the experience was not as good as he had hoped. Whiskers was very nervous on the plane, and he meowed the entire time. John also said that the Southwest Airlines staff was not very helpful.

What we learn:

Not all pets are good candidates for flying. If your pet is nervous or anxious, it may be best to leave them at home.

Story 3:

A woman named Mary flew Southwest with her rabbit, Fluffy. She said that the experience was a nightmare. Fluffy was so scared that he peed and pooped all over her. Mary also said that the Southwest Airlines staff was rude and unhelpful.

What we learn:

Rabbits are not good candidates for flying. They are very delicate animals, and they can easily get scared.

FAQs

Q: What types of animals are allowed on Southwest flights?

A: Southwest Airlines allows dogs, cats, rabbits, and small birds on their flights.

Q: How do I book a flight with my pet?

A: You can book a flight with your pet by calling Southwest Airlines at 1-800-435-9792.

Q: What do I need to bring to the airport when I'm flying with my pet?

A: You'll need to bring your pet's vaccination records, health certificate, and carrier.

Q: How much does it cost to bring my pet on a Southwest flight?

A: The fee is $95 per pet, each way.

Q: Are there any restrictions on bringing pets on Southwest flights?

A: Pets are not allowed on flights to or from Hawaii or international flights.

Q: What if my pet gets sick or injured on the plane?

A: If your pet gets sick or injured on the plane, you should notify a Southwest Airlines flight attendant immediately. The flight attendant will be able to provide assistance.

Call to action

If you're planning to fly with your pet, Southwest Airlines is a great option. The staff is friendly and helpful, and the fees are reasonable. Just be sure to book your flight in advance and follow the airline's rules and regulations.

Helpful tables

Table 1: Southwest Airlines Pet Fees

Table 2: Southwest Airlines Pet Restrictions

Table 3: Southwest Airlines Pet-Friendly Airports