Bravo to SWA for FINALLY allowing pets! I have not flown SWA for years because of their no-pet policy. I have always had an issue, though, with *all* the airlines charging a fee for the pet. My extremely well-behaved, QUIET, clean, dachshund is in a bag that is placed under the seat - JUST LIKE ANY OTHER PIECE OF CARRY-ON ITEM such as a computer or tote. No one has to pay $75 to carry on their purse or their computer. And the attendants have to do nothing. She also weighs less than many carry-on bags, so she's not adding weight to the flight.
She is FAR better behaved than 90% of the kids that fly. She doesn't cry or scream (or even bark). She doesn't kick anyone's seat. She doesn't throw things or run up and down the aisle. No one knows she's there except me -- not even the person seated next to me.
In all my years of flying with a pet (and it's been many) on *other* airlines, I have not once seen or heard a pet be a problem with noise, aggressiveness or elimination. The same cannot be said for kids (or some adults for that matter).
If there comes a time when the dog I have is not good at traveling in a carrier, I will make other arrangements. Most people who travel with their pet do so because the pet is OK with it. We don't want to put them through something that is going to cause them stress.
As for those with allergies, I'm sorry for your situation. Some people's respiratory systems are compromised by strong aftershave, perfume, or hairspray. Should there be a rule that you cannot wear any scented products while flying? Someone earlier posted that you need to take responsibility for yourself. The airlines cannot possibly make the aircraft free of all irritants. What do you do for yourself when you are out in the rest of world? If you know you may be in a place that could cause a reaction, prepare for it -- even if that means you have to wear a mask to protect yourself for those couple of hours. A diabetic has to take precautions and prepare for travel (food, insulin). It's about taking responsibility for your own body's health issues and not expect everyone around you to adapt to your individual situation.
... View more