A Comprehensive Guide to Shipping Your Dog on Southwest Airlines
If you need to fly with your furry friend but don’t want the stress of bringing them in the cabin as a lap dog, shipping them as cargo on Southwest Airlines can be a good option. Whether you’re moving across the country or taking a family vacation, getting Fido to your destination safely and hassle-free is a top priority. In this article, I’ll review everything you need to know about shipping dogs on Southwest, from booking and prep to pickup and delivery.
Eligibility and Booking
The first step is making sure your dog is eligible to travel as cargo. Southwest only accepts dogs traveling in pressurized cargo holds, so no snub-nosed breeds like pugs or bulldogs. Your dog also needs to be at least 8 weeks old, traveling in an approved hard-sided kennel, and cannot weigh more than 100 pounds.
Once you’ve confirmed eligibility, you can book your dog’s ticket when purchasing your own flight on southwest.com. Reserve well in advance during busy travel seasons. The cost is $75 each way plus taxes/fees, which is typically less than most other carriers. A health certificate from your vet within 10 days of travel is also required.
Kennel Requirements
Southwest specifies the kennel must be large enough for your dog to stand up and turn around in comfortably. It should be secured, leak-proof, and have proper ventilation. I recommend getting one specifically designed for aircraft travel with sturdy locks that won’t pop open mid-flight from air pressure changes. Test it beforehand to confirm your pup isn’t Houdini!
Clearly label the outside with your contact details in case of delays. And don’t forget to include your pup’s name, food, water bowls, leash, collar, medications, and favorite toy for the journey. I like to throw in a worn t-shirt too that smells like home for comfort.
Pre-Travel Prep
Get your dog accustomed to their kennel before travel day. Feed them in it, give treats, and keep it out for gentle exposure. On travel day, don’t give food or water four hours prior. Also consider calming supplements or CBD treats to ease stress and anxiety, but check with your vet first.
Arrive at the airport 2-3 hours before your scheduled departure to allow extra time. You’ll check your doggo and kennel at designated cargo areas, not regular check-in counters. Do a final check that harnesses/collars are securely removed before surrendering your fur baby into the airline’s care.
Pickup and Delivery
Your pup will be handled separately from other cargo on the plane for comfort and security. To minimize stress, most airlines now track flights in real-time online so you’ll know their estimated arrival. Make pickup arrangements accordingly – have someone on standby if you can’t greet right away!
When picking up, bring photo ID matching your reservation. Cargo facilities are usually separate from baggage claim. A smoooooth pick up means excited tail wags all around!
Alternatives to Consider
If your pup is nervous or high-strung, you may want to explore driving or using a pet transport service instead of flying. Another choice is bringing them in the cabin as an FAA-approved emotional support or service animal. This requires extra clearance and training compared to a lap dog, but avoids cargo concerns.
Weigh all factors like your dog’s temperament, total travel time, stops needed, and cost/convenience pros and cons. With the right precautions and planning, cargo travel can still be a great way to take your best furry friend along for the ride.
Tips from Experience
I’ve shipped my rescue pup Tank on Southwest a few times when visiting family across state lines. From my experience, these extra precautions helped ensure smooth sailings:
- Book mid-cabin rather than rear hold if an option, for less extreme temperatures/pressure changes.
- Request ‘Fragile’ labeling which got him unloaded first on both ends of flights.
- Bring old towel/blanket as a familiar scent for comfort.
- Give extra alone time in kennel with treats/chew before travel day.
While flying as cargo isn’t for every dog, Tank now happily hops right in his kennel when he sees his “travel gear” come out. Just be over-prepared, trust the process, and try to keep stress levels low – yours and your pups’! With some practice, shipping can definitely become routine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some other common questions people have about shipping dogs on Southwest:
How long is the maximum connection time?
Southwest recommends no more than 4 hours between flights when connecting, to minimize time spent kenneled without access to food, water or bathroom breaks.
What if my dog is injured or becomes sick during travel?
Southwest has veterinarians on call at major stations 24/7. They’ll evaluate any health issues and provide medical attention as needed at owner expense until the pet is flying fit or alternative arrangements are made.
Can I travel internationally with my dog?
Southwest is domestic travel only within the US, PR, Bahamas and Mexico. For international dog shipping, you’d need to use an airline with transoceanic routes like Delta or United and comply with destination country import rules.
What should I do if delayed or diverted?
Contact the airline pet transport team right away so they can provide status updates and coordinate getting your pet off the delayed plane if long stops are involved.
I hope this comprehensive guide has answered your questions and eased any anxieties about flying with pets as cargo. Safe travels to you and your furry companion!
Southwest Airlines Pet Transportation Requirements
| Weight | Crate Size | Check-In |
|---|---|---|
| Under 20 lbs | Must fit under the seat | At least 1 hour before flight |
| 20-50 lbs | Must fit in cargo hold of aircraft | At least 1 hour before flight |
| Over 50 lbs | Only accepted as excess baggage on certain flights | At least 2 hours before flight |
| Puppies under 6 months | Must travel in approved soft-sided carrier under seat | At least 1 hour before flight |
| Health certificates required within 10 days of travel | Crate must be adequately ventilated on at least 3 sides | Label crate with pet’s name, owner’s contact info |
FAQ
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Can I fly with my dog on Southwest?
Southwest allows dogs to travel in the cargo hold or cabin, depending on the size of your pooch. Dogs must be at least 8 weeks old and toilet trained. Basically, as long as your dog is properly contained, Southwest is usually ok with transporting them.
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What types of dogs can fly cabin with Southwest?
Doggos under 20 lbs and able to fit under the seat are permitted to travel in-cabin for a fee. Larger pups must ride down below with the luggage. At the same time, no snub-nosed or brachycephalic breeds like pugs or bulldogs are welcomed in the cabin for safety reasons. Their short snouts can make breathing difficult during takeoff and landing.
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How do I prepare my dog for flying?
Getting your furry friend used to things like nails trims, vet checks, and crate training beforehand will make the airport experience much less stressful. Also, getting them accustomed to any medications or calming aids your vet recommends is key. On the other paw, it’s best not to give your pup people food the day of flying as an upset stomach mid-air would be awful!
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What documents are needed to fly with a dog?
Proof of current vaccinations like rabies, a health certificate no older than 10 days, and an airline-approved carrier or crate are basically must-haves. Some destinations might require additional paperwork for quarantine too. Kind of makes you wonder if all that red tape is worth it though, right?
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How much does it cost to fly a dog on Southwest?
For dogs under 20 lbs in the cabin, the basic charge starts around $95 each way. However, it appears fees can go higher or lower depending on how busy flights are. Larger dogs in the cargo hold have a weight minimum around $100 plus added surcharges. Flying Fido isn’t exactly cheap, but hopefully dog lovers out there find it stunningly worth it!
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What if my dog is miserable or gets sick on the flight?
While we all hope for happy tails, the possibility of an upset tummy or howls of protest exist. Southwest crews are typically understanding if it’s just nervous whining. Nevertheless, any accidents or behavior issues may still result in being refused on future trips. Your best defense is practicing calm and preparing properly. At the same time, maybe inquire with your vet about mild sedatives in case of emergencies.
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How early should I arrive at the airport with a dog?
Southwest suggests arriving at least 90 minutes before a domestic flight or 2 hours for international. But does that even give you enough time to check in, pass through security while wrangling a wiggly pooch and overstuffed carry kennel? Perhaps add an extra 30 minutes as a buffer just in case. Better early than miss the flight!
On the other paw, if your doggo finds flying too awful to face again or your vacation destination isn’t pet friendly, boarding may become a better option. But is leaving them in the care of strangers less stressful than baggage handling? You’ve got to figure out the right choice for your pup. At the same time, don’t forget to ask your vet about any medications or certs needed based on where you’re headed. Quarantine rules can differ by location. Fly safe and wish your doggo happy landings!