ESA on flight

[Larryt]

Last night on flt 1123 from BWI to RSW at least 3 ESA dogs were not in approved containers and were being held by the passenger. There was also at least 5 others in travel containers. Thought that SWA was inforcing the travel rules for ESA animals, 1, have to be in approved containers and 2, no more than 6 animals per flight.

[chgoflyer]

Actually, unfortunately neither of those are Southwest rules.

Emotional Support Animals must be in a carrier or on a leash at all times. If on a leash, they are allowed to be in the customer's lap.

Pets must remain in a carrier, and while Southwest policy officially limits pets to 6 carriers per flight (up to 2 animals per carrier),  trained service animals and emotional support animals are not considered pets and do not count toward the maximum number of pets permitted onboard.

More info on ESAs here.

More info on the Pet Policy here.