I am so happy you are allowing pets!
To those who are complaining, as a nurse, I am well aware of allergies and problems, however, I also know that the vast majority of most animal allergies only cause sniffles, etc... not anaphalaxis as some of you are claiming. You also must consider that there are several hypo-allergenic breeds (one of which I own due to my own allergies).
Like it or not, pets are becoming more like family members, especially in difficult economic times when some cannot afford to have children.
My dog has flown with me 12 times in the past 8 months and I can assure you, she has never made so much as a peep. I have never witnessed any dramatic anaphalactic shock symptoms... let alone, any runny noses, from any passengers within close proximity to me. She has never left her carrier. Most people don't even know she is with me.
Let us not forget the other more serious illnesses and diseases that one can contract simply by being in such a confined space with so many people at once (and with recirculating air).
Rest assured, the airlines are well aware of liabilities and issues that come with allowing pets. Those of us with pets understand our obligations and the rules. If there is ever a problem, I am sure they will attend to it immediately.
Please keep in mind that by traveling with a pet, a passenger is paying to do so, and also giving up carry-on space. While I understand the animal counting as a carry on, it is difficult for me to understand why passengers must pay for space that they have already paid for... however, Southwest's cost is less than half than that of other airlines.
I'd like to commend Southwest on their reasonable pet fares. I haven't flown with them in years because I haven't been able to bring my dog, but now I will fly with them at least twice a month. Other airlines charge over double what Southwest is charging and it makes me very angry. Southwest should really be thanked for their generosity.
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