Traveling with pets can be a complex process, especially when it involves emotional support animals (ESAs). Policies can vary significantly between airlines, making it crucial for pet owners to understand the specific requirements of the airline they are traveling with.
This guide provides an overview of Southwest Airlines’ emotional support pet policy, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.
Overview of Southwest Airlines’ ESA Policy
As of January 11, 2021, Southwest Airlines no longer accepts emotional support animals for travel. This change aligns with new regulations issued by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), which allow airlines to classify ESAs as pets rather than service animals.
Key Points of the Policy
1. Emotional Support Animals Not Accepted
Southwest Airlines does not recognize emotional support animals as service animals. Instead, they are considered pets and must adhere to the airline’s pet policies.
2. Service Animals
Only trained service dogs are allowed to travel with passengers with disabilities. Service dogs must be individually trained to perform tasks or do work for the benefit of a qualified individual with a disability, including a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or other mental disability.
3. Pet Travel Policy
If you wish to travel with a pet, Southwest Airlines allows small, vaccinated domestic cats and dogs to travel with you in-cabin under the following conditions:
- Pet Carrier: Pets must be transported in an appropriate pet carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. The carrier must be leak-proof, well-ventilated, and small enough to fit under the seat without blocking the aisle.
- Reservation and Fees: Reservations for pets must be made in advance, and there is a non-refundable pet fare per carrier each way. As of the last update, the pet fare is $95 each way.
- Pet Carrier Guidelines: Each passenger is allowed to bring one pet carrier, with a maximum of two pets of the same species inside the carrier. The combined weight of the pet and carrier should not exceed 20 pounds.
- Pet Travel Restrictions: Pets are not permitted to travel in-cabin on international flights or any itinerary that includes an international flight. Pets must remain in the carrier and under the seat for the entire flight.
Preparing to Travel with Your Pet
To ensure a smooth journey, follow these steps:
1. Make a Reservation
- Early Booking: Since Southwest Airlines allows a limited number of pets per flight, it is advisable to make your pet reservation as early as possible.
- Confirm Requirements: Double-check that your pet meets all the carrier requirements and that you have all necessary travel documents, such as vaccination records.
2. Prepare the Pet Carrier
- Carrier Specifications: Ensure your pet carrier adheres to Southwest’s size and ventilation guidelines.
- Comfort: Make the carrier comfortable for your pet with a soft blanket or towel. Familiarize your pet with the carrier well in advance of your trip to reduce stress.
3. Health and Safety
- Veterinary Visit: Schedule a vet visit before your trip to ensure your pet is healthy and up-to-date on vaccinations.
- Identification: Equip your pet with identification tags that include your contact information.
4. Day of Travel
- Check-In: Arrive at the airport early to allow sufficient time for check-in and security screening. Inform the check-in agent that you are traveling with a pet.
- Security Screening: During TSA screening, you will need to remove your pet from the carrier and carry them through the metal detector while the carrier is x-rayed.
Understanding Service Dog Requirements
For those traveling with service dogs, here are the key points of Southwest’s service animal policy:
- Documentation: Passengers traveling with a service dog must submit a completed U.S. Department of Transportation Service Animal Air Transportation form. This form attests to the dog’s health, behavior, and training.
- Behavior: Service dogs must be well-behaved and remain under control at all times. They should sit at the passenger’s feet or on their lap (provided the dog is no larger than a child under two years of age).
- Identification: While not mandatory, it is helpful if the service dog wears a harness, vest, or other identifiers indicating their role.
Conclusion
Traveling with pets, particularly emotional support animals, requires careful planning and understanding of airline policies. With Southwest Airlines no longer recognizing ESAs as service animals, pet owners need to adhere to the airline’s pet travel guidelines.
By preparing in advance and ensuring all requirements are met, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience for both you and your pet. Always stay updated with the latest policies directly from the airline’s official website or customer service, as regulations may change.
0 Comments