Traveling with your furry friend soon? If you’re flying with Southwest Airlines and hoping to bring your cat or dog along, this guide covers everything you need to know—rules, fees, carrier requirements, and important restrictions. Pets are family, and Southwest understands that, which is why the airline offers one of the simplest and most pet-friendly cabin policies in the U.S.
Below is a clear breakdown of the southwest pet policy to help you plan a smooth journey with your four-legged companion.
Overview of Southwest Airlines Pet Policy
According to the official southwest airlines pet policy, passengers may bring their vaccinated cats or dogs onboard if they are at least eight weeks old. Pets are allowed only in the cabin—not in cargo—and must remain inside an approved carrier for the entire flight.
Southwest accepts only six pet carriers per flight, following a strict first-come, first-served process. Each traveler may carry just one pet carrier, and unaccompanied minors cannot bring pets. These simple guidelines help ensure a calm and comfortable travel environment for everyone.
Southwest Airlines In-Cabin Pet Rules
If you want to bring your dog or cat onboard, you must follow the rules of the southwest pet policy in cabin. Here’s what you should know:
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Only small domestic, vaccinated cats and dogs are allowed.
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Pets must be at least 8 weeks old.
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Carriers must fit under the seat and not exceed 18.5″ x 8.5″ x 13.5″ (L x H x W).
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Carriers must be leak-proof, ventilated, and secure.
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Pets cannot travel to or from Hawaii or international destinations (only inter-island flights within Hawaii are permitted).
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For Puerto Rico flights, ensure you comply with local pet entry regulations.
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You must board with your assigned group.
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Passengers with pets may not sit in exit rows or seats without under-seat storage.
These rules form the foundation of the southwest airlines in cabin pet policy and help maintain safety onboard.
Pet Fares on Southwest Airlines
Travelers flying with pets must pay a $95 fee each way. Under the southwest airlines pet policy in cabin, this pet fare is fully refundable if you cancel your ticket or pet reservation. It’s simple, transparent, and easy to modify if your travel plans change.
Southwest Emotional Support & Service Pet Policy
Southwest does not accept emotional support animals as service animals, meaning ESAs must follow regular pet travel rules. Under the southwest airlines emotional support pet policy, emotional support animals must travel in an approved carrier and pay the standard pet fare.
Approved Pet Carrier Size
The southwest airlines pet carrier policy requires that your pet carrier must not exceed:
18.5” (L) x 13.5” (W) x 9.5” (H)
It must fit under the seat in front of you and comfortably hold your pet.
Final Thoughts
While Southwest Airlines doesn’t offer cargo pet transport, its in-cabin pet policy remains one of the simplest and most affordable in the industry. As long as your pet meets age and vaccination requirements and fits inside a compliant carrier, flying together is easy and hassle-free.
Before travel, double-check your route restrictions and arrive early to secure one of the limited pet slots available on every flight. If you need help with bookings or clarifications, Southwest customer support can guide you through the process.
Safe travels to you and your furry friend!
Quick Q&A
Does Southwest allow pets?
Yes—small cats and dogs that meet the southwest airlines pet policy requirements are allowed onboard domestic flights.
Is the pet fee refundable?
Yes, pet fares are fully refundable.
How much does it cost to fly with a pet?
The pet fee is $95 each way.
Can pets fly to Hawaii?
No, except for flights between Hawaiian islands only.
What size carrier is allowed?
Per the southwest airlines pet carrier policy, carriers must be 18.5” x 13.5” x 9.5” or smaller.