Southwest Airlines PSD Policy Guide.

Here are some general guidelines that were in place as of my last update:

1. Documentation: Passengers traveling with a psychiatric service dog were required to provide specific documentation in advance. This typically included a letter from a licensed mental health professional stating the necessity of the dog for emotional support during air travel.

2. Advance Notice: Southwest Airlines generally required passengers to notify them at least 48 hours in advance of their intention to travel with a psychiatric service dog. This allowed the airline to make necessary arrangements and accommodations.

3. Verification of Training: The airline may have asked for proof that the psychiatric service dog had been trained to behave properly in a public setting, follow commands, and remain calm during the flight.

4. In-Cabin Accommodation: Psychiatric service dogs were usually allowed to travel in the cabin with the passenger, provided they remained well-behaved and did not disrupt the flight or other passengers.

5. Animal Behavior: The dog was expected to be under the control of its handler at all times. If the dog displayed aggressive or disruptive behavior, the airline could deny boarding or require it to be transported in the cargo hold for the safety of other passengers.

6. Leash and Harness: The dog typically had to be kept on a leash or harness while in the airport and during the flight.

Read more