Southwest Airlines Pet Travel Rules

Published on September 22, 2025

Flying with your furry family member can feel daunting, but understanding the airline’s pet policy is the first step to a smooth journey. If you’re considering Southwest Airlines, here’s everything you need to know about their pet travel rules before booking your ticket.

Does Southwest Airlines Allow Pets?

Yes! Southwest Airlines welcomes “small, vaccinated domestic dogs and cats” to travel in-cabin only. Pets must be kept inside an approved carrier that fits comfortably under the seat in front of you.

Key Guidelines for Traveling with Pets on Southwest

In-Cabin Only: Southwest does not allow pets in the cargo hold. Only small dogs and cats can fly.
Age Requirement: Pets must be at least 8 weeks old to travel.
Pet Carrier Requirements:
- The carrier must be leak-proof and well-ventilated.
- Dimensions may not exceed 18.5” L x 8.5” H x 13.5” W.
- Both soft-sided and hard-sided carriers are accepted.
Pet Fee: A $125 fee per pet carrier, each way applies.
- Note: You may also purchase a pet carrier at the ticket counter for $58 but it cannot be returned.

Number of Pets Allowed:
- One pet carrier per paying passenger.
- Up to two small pets of the same species may share a carrier.
Seating Restrictions:
- Pets are not allowed in exit rows or bulkhead seats.
- You must keep your pet in the carrier and under the seat at all times. Your pet must also be in the carrier while in the gate area, during boarding, and while deplaning.
Pets Traveling to Puerto Rico & Hawaii: If you are relocating to Puerto Rico with your pet, be aware that specific entry requirements may apply. We recommend researching these regulations in advance to ensure compliance. Please note that Southwest Airlines does not accept pets on flights to or from Hawaii.

Additional Considerations

First-Come, First-Served: Southwest limits the number of pets on each flight, so it’s best to book early.
Health & Vaccination: Southwest requires pets to be vaccinated, and you may be asked to show proof.
No Emotional Support Animals (ESAs): Southwest no longer recognizes ESAs. Only service animals and standard in-cabin pets are permitted.

When to Choose WorldCare Pet

While Southwest can be a convenient choice for domestic trips with small dogs or cats, it may not be the right fit for larger pets or international moves. At WorldCare Pet, we specialize in door-to-door, international, and large breed pet relocations. If your move is complex or your furry companion isn’t eligible to fly in-cabin with Southwest, we’re here to handle every detail safely and compassionately.

Final Thoughts

Southwest Airlines is a good option for domestic travel with small pets. Just be sure to follow their carrier size requirements, pay the pet fee, and reserve early since space is limited. For more complicated moves, especially international relocations, trust WorldCare Pet Transport to provide expert guidance and hands-on care.

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Valerie Neyra

Valerie Neyra is the Marketing Coordinator at WorldCare Pet and a proud cat mom to Lucky. She is dedicated to creating resources that simplify domestic & international pet transport. Valerie understands how important pets are to our lives and works to help pet parents feel supported and confident every step of the way during their global moves.

Southwest Airlines Pet Policy 2025: What Pet Parents Need to Know