What is Southwest Airlines' Pet Policy: Rules & Fees 2025

Are you planning to travel with your furry friend for your next holiday? But confused about what size or carrier Southwest allows? Then, worry not! Here’s our guide on Southwest Airlines' pet policy, which will help you plan your pawsome holiday. The best part is that the airline provides a simple pet policy, which will make your travel journey less stressful. If you want your pets to travel with you, then you must put them in an airline-approved carrier under a seat. 

So, what are you waiting for? Without any further delay, let’s dive into the details that will make your journey smooth. 

Southwest Airlines Pet Policy 

Under the Southwest Airlines pet policy, the airline allows small vaccinated cats and dogs who are at least 8 weeks old. You can fly with them in the cabin under a seat on domestic routes. Of course, there are some carrier rules and regulations that you have to follow to make sure that you have a pawsome journey. Another thing you need to keep in mind while booking the flight tickets is that some Southwest Airlines flights allow only up to 6 pets per flight. However, sometimes this number gets reduced as well. So, we suggest you book in advance, or you can call Affluence Travels for assistance and better service. 

Southwest's pet policy also says that if your pets are too big to fit under the seat, then they won't be able to fly with Southwest Airlines. This is because the airline does not allow checked baggage. Also, pets exhibiting disruptive behaviour can be denied boarding. 

According to Southwest Airlines' pet policy, this includes -

• Biting
• Excessive barking
• Excessive whining
• Growling
• Lunging
• Scratching
• Urinating or defecating in the cabin or gate area. 

So, make sure your pet does not have all these behavioural signs. Make sure that your pet is properly vaccinated before booking the flight ticket with Southwest Airlines. 

Also Read: Southwest Low Fare Calendar

Southwest Pet Carrier Policy

The maximum allowable dimensions as per the Southwest pet carrier policy are 18.5 inches long x 13.5 inches wide x 9.5 inches high. These measurements are strict requirements, and you need to adhere to these size policies. The best part is that the Southwest accepts both hard-sided and soft-sided carriers, which provides flexibility to choose the preferred one. However, both types need to meet the same dimensional requirements. 

Your carrier must be - 

• Leak-proof with a waterproof bottom and absorbent pet pad.
• The carrier should be well-ventilated with at least three sides of ventilation on domestic flights. 
• Secure with heavy-duty zippers or other secure fasteners recommended. 
• It should be durable enough to withstand the structural integrity during the flight. 

Moreover, you have to make sure that the pet can stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably in the carrier. No part of your pet can extend outside the carrier at any time during travel. The carrier must fit completely under the seat in front of you. 

One carrier per ticketed passenger is allowed. A maximum of 2 pets of the same species can travel in one carrier, provided both animals fit comfortably and can turn around freely. The carrier of the pet will count as either your personal item or carry-on item. 

Also Read: Southwest Baggage Policy

Southwest Airlines Pet Policy For Trained Service Animals 

According to Southwest Airlines' pet policy, trained service animals are not considered pets. Therefore, they are not bound by the Southwest pet policy. If you are planning to travel with a trained service dog, then you will need to complete the US Department of Transportation Service Animal Air Transportation Form at the ticket counter or gate on the day of travel. 

You need to put lashes or harnesses on the trained service animals at all times, and they must be well-behaved. Any trained service animal that exhibits disruptive behavior like biting, excessive barking, growling, lunging, etc, can be denied boarding. Animals like therapy animals, including emotional support pets that do not qualify as trained animals, will travel as per the Southwest Airlines pet policy. 

While onboarding the aircraft, the service animals cannot occupy the exit rows and can’t sit on the seat or in the aisle. 

Also Read: Southwest Carry-On Size Guide

Southwest Airlines Pet Fees

Southwest Airlines charges a $125 pet fee per carrier, each way, for domestic flights within the United States mainland. This fee represents a recent increase from the previous rate of $95 that was in effect until 2025. For travelers flying between Hawaiian islands, Southwest offers a reduced pet fare of $35 per carrier, each way. The pet fee must be paid at the airport ticket counter during check-in using accepted credit cards. 

Importantly, this fee is fully refundable if you cancel your flight reservation or if Southwest cancels your flight. The pet fee covers your pet's travel space in the cabin and counts as either your personal item or carry-on allowance, with no additional baggage fees for the pet carrier itself. Service animals, however, travel free of charge as they are not considered pets under federal regulations.

Also Read: How Southwest Boarding Works

Conclusion

We understand that sometimes traveling with your furry friends can be difficult and stressful. But if you know about the Southwest Airlines pet policy, this travel becomes easy and enjoyable. You have to make sure that you adhere to the carrier rules and regulations of the airlines. And make sure to book your tickets in advance. If you need further assistance, call Affluence Travels today, and our team will be happy to help you. 

FAQs About Southwest Airlines Pet Policy

What types of pets can fly on Southwest Airlines?

Only small, vaccinated domestic dogs and cats that are at least 8 weeks old can travel in the cabin on Southwest Airlines.​

How much does it cost to bring a pet on Southwest Airlines?

Southwest charges $125 per pet carrier each way for domestic flights and $35 each way for flights between Hawaiian islands.​

Do I need to make a reservation for my pet?

Yes, pet reservations are mandatory and must be made by calling Southwest or Affluence Travels due to the limit of only six pet carriers per flight.​

Can pets travel as checked baggage or cargo on Southwest?

No, Southwest only allows pets to travel in the cabin with passengers and does not accept pets as checked baggage or cargo.​

Are there destination restrictions for pet travel?

Yes, pets are not allowed on flights to or from Hawaii or on any international flights, but they can travel between Hawaiian islands and to Puerto Rico with additional requirements.