Understanding Southwest Airlines Pet Carrier Size Restrictions: A Comprehensive Guide

Southwest Airlines, known for its budget-friendly fares and flexible policies, welcomes furry companions on board with specific pet carrier size requirements. This article provides a comprehensive guide to these restrictions, ensuring a smooth and stress-free travel experience for you and your pet.

Important Regulations

Southwest Airlines adheres to strict regulations regarding pet carrier size:

• Carrier Height: Must not exceed 22 inches from the bottom of the carrier to the highest point.
• Carrier Length: Must not exceed 18 inches in length, including handles or wheels.
• Carrier Width: Must not exceed 11 inches in width.
• Maximum Total Dimensions: The combined sum of the height, length, and width of the carrier must not surpass 44 inches.

Soft-Sided or Hard-Sided Carriers?

Southwest Airlines permits both soft-sided and hard-sided pet carriers. However, soft-sided carriers offer more flexibility as they can be compressed slightly to fit under the seat in front of you. Hard-sided carriers provide more protection for your pet but may be more challenging to fit under the seat.

Approved Pet Carrier Brands

Southwest Airlines allows pet carriers from several reputable brands, including:

• Sherpa
• Petmate
• Sleepypod
• SturdiBag
• PetEgo

Verification Process

Upon check-in, Southwest Airlines will verify that your pet carrier complies with the size regulations. If your carrier exceeds the allowable dimensions, you may be denied boarding for your pet.

Tips for Choosing a Carrier

• Measure Twice: Determine your pet's measurements before selecting a carrier.
• Consider Your Pet's Comfort: Choose a carrier that provides ample space for your pet to move around and feel comfortable.
• Ventilation: Ensure the carrier has adequate ventilation to prevent overheating.
• Zipper and Security: Look for carriers with sturdy zippers and secure closures to prevent escapes.
• Water Dish: Some carriers have built-in water dishes or space to place one inside.

Examples of Acceptable Carriers

Soft-Sided Carriers:

• Sherpa Original Deluxe Pet Carrier: Height: 18.5 inches, Length: 19.5 inches, Width: 11.5 inches
• Petmate Sky Kennel Small: Height: 19 inches, Length: 18 inches, Width: 11 inches

Hard-Sided Carriers:

• SturdiBag Small Travel Carrier: Height: 18 inches, Length: 18 inches, Width: 11 inches
• KritterKeeper Small Travel Carrier: Height: 18 inches, Length: 18 inches, Width: 11 inches

Fees and Other Considerations

• Pet Fee: Southwest Airlines charges a $95 fee per pet, per one-way flight.
• Health Certificates: Some states require health certificates for pets crossing state lines.
• Documentation: Bring proof of vaccination and any required health certificates with you on the day of travel.
• Pet Relief Areas: Most Southwest airports have designated pet relief areas for your furry companion's comfort.

Benefits of Complying with Pet Carrier Size Regulations

• Safety First: Properly sized carriers ensure your pet's safety and prevent them from being injured under the seat.
• Comfort and Stress Reduction: Comfortable carriers provide a sense of security for your pet, reducing anxiety during travel.
• Reduced Risk of Delays: Complying with size regulations helps avoid delays during check-in and boarding.

Why It Matters

Southwest Airlines' pet carrier size restrictions exist for several important reasons:

• Passenger Safety: Properly sized carriers prevent pets from moving around freely in the cabin, which could pose a safety hazard.
• Pet Comfort: Carriers that are too large or small can cause discomfort and stress for your pet.
• Space Optimization: Adhering to size regulations ensures there is sufficient space for all passengers and their luggage.

How to Step-by-Step Approach

1. Measure Your Pet: Determine your pet's height, length, and width to select an appropriate carrier.
2. Research and Purchase: Choose a Southwest Airlines-approved pet carrier that meets the size regulations and suits your pet's needs.
3. Verify at Check-In: Ensure your pet carrier complies with the size requirements during check-in.
4. Secure Your Pet: Place your pet comfortably inside the carrier and secure the zippers or closures.
5. Enjoy the Flight: Rest assured that your furry companion will travel safely and comfortably under the seat in front of you.

Stories and Lessons Learned

Story 1:

Susan was traveling with her beloved cat, Mittens. She had purchased a small soft-sided carrier that she believed would fit under the seat. However, upon check-in, the Southwest agent informed her that the carrier was slightly too large. Susan had to purchase a new carrier at the airport, costing her an additional expense and causing unnecessary stress before her flight.

Lesson Learned: Measure your pet's carrier carefully and ensure it complies with the Southwest Airlines size regulations before purchasing.

Story 2:

John was flying with his large dog, Buddy. He had rented a large hard-sided carrier for Buddy but discovered at check-in that the carrier was too tall to fit under the seat. John was faced with the difficult decision of either paying an additional fee for a larger carrier or leaving Buddy behind. Fortunately, a helpful Southwest agent suggested a smaller hard-sided carrier that fit within the regulations, allowing John and Buddy to travel together.

Lesson Learned: Hard-sided carriers can be challenging to fit under the seat. Consider soft-sided carriers for more flexibility or rent a carrier that is specifically designed for Southwest Airlines.

Story 3:

Sally was traveling with her service dog, Max. She had a properly sized carrier but was unaware that she needed to provide proof of Max's service dog certification. At the gate, Sally was informed that she could not board with Max without the proper documentation. She had to contact the airline's customer service and provide the necessary information, causing a delay in her departure.

Lesson Learned: Ensure you have all the necessary documentation for service dogs, emotional support animals, or any other special travel requirements.

Call to Action

To ensure a smooth and safe travel experience for both you and your furry companion, adhere to Southwest Airlines' pet carrier size regulations. Measure your pet carefully, choose an approved carrier, and verify it complies at check-in. By following these guidelines, you can provide your beloved pet with a comfortable and stress-free journey.