Have you ever dreamt of having your furry best friend right there with you on your next adventure? Southwest Airlines makes it a reality for many pet parents, but understanding the costs and logistics is key! Flying with a pet isn't as simple as just showing up at the airport, so let's break down everything you need to know about bringing your beloved companion on a Southwest flight.
How Much Does It Cost to Fly with Your Pet on Southwest Airlines? A Comprehensive Guide
Southwest Airlines offers a relatively straightforward pet policy for in-cabin travel. Unlike some airlines that offer cargo options, Southwest only allows small vaccinated domestic cats and dogs to travel in the cabin with you. This means your pet will be right under your seat, offering peace of mind throughout the journey.
Step 1: Understanding the Pet Fare – What's the Price Tag?
The most immediate question on your mind is likely, "How much will this cost?"
The Pet Fare: As of the latest information, the pet fare on Southwest Airlines is $95 each way per pet carrier.
Important Note: This fee is charged per carrier, not per pet. If you have two small, same-species pets (e.g., two small cats) that can comfortably share one carrier, you still only pay the $95 fee for that single carrier. However, if you need two separate carriers, you'll pay $95 for each.
Payment Method: The pet fare must be paid at the airport ticket counter with an accepted credit card on the day of travel. You cannot pay this fee online in advance.
Refundability: The pet fare is refundable if you cancel your reservation.
Step 2: Checking Pet and Carrier Eligibility – Does Your Furry Friend Qualify?
Before you even think about booking, you need to ensure your pet and their carrier meet Southwest's strict requirements.
Sub-heading: Pet Requirements
Species Allowed: Only small, vaccinated domestic cats and dogs are permitted. No other animals (e.g., birds, rabbits, ferrets) are allowed as pets.
Age Requirement: Your pet must be at least eight (8) weeks old to travel.
Behavior: Your pet must be non-disruptive. Examples of disruptive behavior that could lead to denied boarding include excessive whining/barking, growling, biting, or urinating/defecating in the cabin or gate area.
Health: Southwest can refuse to transport an animal due to illness or aggressive behavior. While Southwest generally doesn't require a health certificate, it's always a good idea to consult your veterinarian before flying to ensure your pet is healthy enough for air travel, especially if they have pre-existing conditions like heart disease or anxiety. Brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds (like Pugs, Bulldogs, Persians) can be more susceptible to respiratory issues during flights, so extra caution and vet consultation are advised.
Unaccompanied Minors: Unaccompanied minors are not permitted to travel with a pet.
Sub-heading: Pet Carrier Requirements
This is where many travelers encounter issues, so pay close attention to the dimensions!
In-Cabin Only: Remember, Southwest does not transport pets in the cargo hold. Your pet must travel with you in the cabin.
Under-Seat Stowage: The carrier must fit completely under the seat in front of you. This is a non-negotiable FAA regulation.
Maximum Dimensions:
Southwest Airlines® Pet Carrier: If you purchase a Southwest-branded carrier, it has specific dimensions of 17" (L) x 10" (W) x 9.5" (H). This carrier is always permitted.
Other Pet Carriers: For other approved pet carriers (soft or hard-sided), the maximum dimensions are 18.5" (L) x 13.5" (W) x 9.5" (H).
Always double-check these dimensions before you buy or use a carrier, as even a slight difference can cause problems at the airport.
Comfort for Your Pet: The pet must be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably within the carrier. No part of your pet can extend out of the carrier.
Carrier Type: Carriers can be soft-sided or hard-sided, but they must be:
Leak-proof: Essential for hygiene and to prevent spills.
Well-ventilated: Adequate ventilation on at least 3 sides (domestic) or 4 sides (international, though Southwest generally doesn't allow international pet travel as pets).
Secure: Heavy-duty zippers are recommended for soft-sided carriers.
Number of Pets per Carrier: Each pet carrier can contain no more than two of the same species of small cat or dog, provided they can comfortably fit and meet the size requirements.
Carry-On Item: Your pet carrier counts as either your personal item or your carry-on bag. You can board with a pet carrier and a personal item, or a pet carrier and a regular-sized carry-on bag.
Checked Pet Strollers/Crates: For reservations booked and ticketed on or before May 27, 2025, you could check a pet stroller or crate for free. For reservations booked and ticketed on or after May 28, 2025, standard checked bag fees apply to any pet strollers checked. Southwest does not assume liability for damage to pet strollers.
Step 3: Making the Reservation – Securing Your Pet's Spot
This is a crucial step, as pet space on Southwest flights is limited.
Limited Capacity: Southwest Airlines generally limits the number of pet carriers to six per scheduled flight (excluding service animals). This number can sometimes vary, so early booking is highly recommended.
Reservations are Mandatory: You must make a reservation for your pet in advance. Pets are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis until the flight's capacity is reached.
How to Reserve: You cannot book your pet's travel online. You'll need to call Southwest Airlines directly: 1-800-I-FLY-SWA (1-800-435-9792).
Process:
First, book your own flight.
Once your flight is confirmed, immediately call Southwest customer service to add your pet to your reservation.
The representative will ask for your pet's name, breed, and weight.
Be prepared for a potentially busy phone line, especially during peak travel times.
Step 4: Day of Travel – Airport Procedures and Onboard Rules
Knowing what to expect at the airport and on the plane will make your journey smoother.
Sub-heading: At the Airport
Arrive Early: Southwest recommends arriving at the airport at least two hours, but no more than four hours, before your scheduled flight if you're traveling with your pet. This allows ample time for check-in, paying the pet fee, and going through security.
Ticket Counter Check-in: You must check in at the Southwest Airlines ticket counter with your pet. This is where an agent will verify your pet and carrier meet requirements and collect the $95 pet fare. You cannot use curbside or self-service check-in kiosks when traveling with a pet.
Security Checkpoint: At the security checkpoint, you will need to remove your pet from its carrier and hold it while the empty carrier is X-rayed. All pet carriers are subject to being searched.
Pet Relief Areas: Most airports have designated pet relief areas. Familiarize yourself with your departure and arrival airport layouts to locate these areas. Southwest will not delay a flight for you to take your pet to a relief area.
Pet Tag: Once checked in, you'll receive a special tag for your pet carrier, indicating it's an approved in-cabin pet.
Sub-heading: Onboard the Aircraft
Boarding Group: Customers traveling with pets will board with their assigned boarding group.
Open Seating Policy: While Southwest has an open seating policy, if you're traveling with a pet, you cannot sit in an emergency exit row seat or a seat with no under-seat stowage in front of it.
Pet in Carrier: Your pet must remain secured in its carrier at all times while in the gate area, during boarding/deplaning, and for the entire flight. Failure to comply can result in your pet being denied transportation.
Carrier Stowage: The carrier must be stowed under the seat in front of you for the duration of the flight.
Comfort: While you might want to comfort your pet, remember they need to stay in their carrier. Ensure they have a comfortable pad and perhaps a familiar toy or blanket inside their carrier.
Step 5: Important Considerations and Restrictions
Beyond the main steps, there are a few other critical points to keep in mind.
Domestic Flights Only: Southwest Airlines does not accept pets on flights to or from Hawaii or on international itineraries. The only exception for Hawaii is for trained service animals with specific documentation. For Puerto Rico, specific requirements may apply for pets.
Service Animals vs. Pets: It's important to distinguish between pets and trained service animals. Trained service dogs (only dogs are recognized as service animals by Southwest) are allowed to fly in the cabin free of charge and have different documentation requirements (U.S. Department of Transportation Service Animal Air Transportation Form). Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) are no longer considered service animals by the DOT and Southwest and must travel as pets, subject to the pet fare and restrictions.
Responsibility: As the pet owner, you assume full responsibility and expense for complying with all applicable laws, customs, and governmental regulations related to pet travel.
Airline Discretion: Southwest Airlines reserves the right to deny transportation to any animal that appears ill, is aggressive, or exhibits disruptive behavior.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to book a flight with my pet on Southwest Airlines?
You must first book your own flight, then call Southwest Airlines at 1-800-I-FLY-SWA (1-800-435-9792) to add your pet to your reservation, as pet bookings cannot be made online.
How to pay the pet fee on Southwest Airlines?
The pet fare of $95 each way must be paid with an accepted credit card at the airport ticket counter on your day of travel.
How to ensure my pet carrier meets Southwest Airlines' requirements?
Your carrier must be leak-proof, well-ventilated, and fit completely under the seat in front of you. Maximum dimensions are 18.5" (L) x 13.5" (W) x 9.5" (H), or 17" (L) x 10" (W) x 9.5" (H) for the Southwest-branded carrier. Your pet must be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably inside.
How to prepare my pet for flying on Southwest Airlines?
Consult your veterinarian to ensure your pet is healthy enough for travel. Consider a pre-flight walk to allow your pet to relieve itself, and ensure they are comfortable and secure in their carrier with a familiar item.
How to get my pet through airport security on Southwest Airlines?
At the security checkpoint, you will need to remove your pet from its carrier and hold it while the empty carrier goes through the X-ray machine.
How to find pet relief areas at the airport when flying Southwest?
Check the airport's website or app for a map of pet relief areas. These are typically located both pre- and post-security.
How to travel with two small pets on Southwest Airlines?
If two small pets of the same species can comfortably fit in a single carrier that meets all size requirements, you can travel with them in one carrier for a single $95 fee. Otherwise, you'll need two separate carriers and pay for each.
How to confirm my pet's reservation on Southwest Airlines?
After calling to add your pet, Southwest will confirm their spot. Due to limited capacity, it's always best to call as soon as your own flight is booked.
How to manage pet behavior during a Southwest Airlines flight?
Your pet must remain in its carrier for the entire flight. If your pet exhibits disruptive behavior (excessive barking, growling, etc.), they may be denied continued transportation.
How to differentiate between a service animal and a pet on Southwest Airlines?
Only trained service dogs are recognized as service animals by Southwest and fly free of charge with specific documentation. Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) are no longer considered service animals and must travel as pets, subject to the pet fare and restrictions.
