Senior travelers are familiar with the cheaters. Passengers who get fake IDs for Fido board first and grab the best seats. It happens on other airlines, as well as some cruise lines. Southwest has taken steps to make sure the helper animals are legitimate and not a bother to other passengers and crew. Now each must be on a leash throughout the flight and obey the rules.

Southwest's new policy, as of mid-September, requires travelers’ emotional support animal to wear a visible tag, and the owner must show a letter from an MD or licensed mental health pro. The only acceptable companions on SW flights are qualified dogs and cats.