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without charge (only when accompanied by their handlers on official business). Southwest Airlines accepts animals that are trained to perform a specific duty such as bomb-sniffing, drug detection, search, and rescue, etc. Southwest pet shipping remains exclusive to the cabin as of this time. Southwest Airlines doesn’t allow pets in the cargo area on their planes. Southwest Checked Baggage Pet PolicyĪs of this time, Southwest does not offer a checked baggage service for live animals.
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Individuals will be charged a $95 Pet Fare (each way) for each pet carrier. Southwest pet fees are fair (especially when compared to other airlines). Also, ensure that your pet is transported within a southwest approved pet carrier. Keep in mind that reservations can only be made in person. You must also arrive early so that you’ll be included in the quota of allowed pets on the flight. Southwest Pet Carrierīefore traveling with your pet, you must notify Southwest. This restriction also refers to Puerto Rico. Pets are banned from traveling on international flights. However, animals with aggressive behavior will not be tolerated in any way. Southwest Airways doesn’t ban any breed of cat or dog from traveling in the cabin during a flight. Kittens and puppies must be at least 8 weeks old before they will be allowed to travel on a Southwest flight. Also, the carrier must have adequate ventilation as well as a waterproof bottom. Your pet must have enough room to stand and turn within the carrier. When measuring Southwest pet carrier dimensions for a soft-sided carrier, ensure that the carrier is fully compressed. The valid Southwest pet carrier size is 8.5 inches x 18.5 inches x 13.5 inches. Southwest pet carrier regulations are very specific.
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You will also need to have an approved airline pet carrier. If you wish for your pet to travel with you in-cabin during your flight, they will need to meet the requirements of the Southwest Airlines pet policy. Ultimately, it’s up to the customer to understand the policies in place and to prepare in advance to avoid issues on the day of travel. The Southwest pet policy can be a bit strict at times, but it ensures that pets and their owners can travel both comfortably and safely. For those who enjoy flying with their pets, many customers look to Southwest Airlines for travel options.
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