Southwest Airlines Pet Policy | Call +1-888-826-0067

Southwest Airlines Pet Policy at AirCancellation.com

The furry friends are part of the family and Southwest Airlines knows it. Hence, they allow small dogs and cats to fly in the cabin with you. Just make sure it of certain size and health rules are met. Understanding these rules before booking helps avoid headaches at the airport. This guide by AirCancellation gives you a peek into everything you need to know about Southwest Airlines pet policy so your trip goes smoothly.

Does Southwest Airlines Allow Pets on Flights?

Southwest lets small dogs & cats fly in the cabin with you. But only under certain scenarios. They don’t permit pets in the cargo hold nor as checked bag. So bigger animals can’t fly on their flights as per the Southwest pet policy. Since the number of pets per flight is also limited, Early reservations are a must. Bring your pet onboard to make travel less stressful compared to checking them in separately. Many pet owners prefer Southwest pet policy since it keeps their animals close throughout the trip.

Still, not every pet qualifies, so check the rules before booking; it is the key. That’s how you avoid last-minute problems at the airport. If you plan to travel with your furry fam, get familiar with Southwest pet options. It will save you both time & hassle. This approach makes flying with pets easier for everyone—owners, pets, and airline staff alike. This applies even to emotional support animals under Southwest’s pet policy. Keep an eye on updates, since policies can change. Call Southwest customer service at 1-800-435-9792 or 1-888-826-0067 to know more.

Southwest Airlines Pet Policy: Key Highlights

Southwest Airlines pet travel policy points out:

Only small, vaccinated domestic cats & dogs are allowed.
Pets must be at least 8 weeks old.
The carrier must fit under the seat. It must also meet specific size & ventilation requirements.
A non-refundable fee of $125 each way applies.
Reservations for pets are required. Can be made by calling 1-800-435-9792 or 1-888-826-0067.
Only six pet carriers are allowed per flight, on a first-come, 1st-served basis.
Pets must remain in their carriers under the seat for the entire flight.
Pets exhibiting disruptive behavior may be denied boarding as per the Southwest pet policy in cabin rules.
Flyers traveling with pets cannot sit in exit rows or seats without under-seat storage.
Pets are not to board on international flights or flights to/from Hawaii.

How to Book Pet Travel on Southwest Airlines?

If you're wondering how to add a pet to your Southwest flight, follow these steps:

Book your own Southwest Airlines flight first.
Call 1-800-435-9792 or 1-888-826-0067 to add your pet.
Provide your pet’s name, age, and species.
Confirm your flight allows pets (limit: six).
Pay the $125 pet fee per direction.
Make sure your pet carrier meets size rules.
Arrive early and check in at the counter.
Keep your pet in the carrier at all times.
Place the carrier under the seat in front.
Follow crew instructions during boarding and flight.

Restrictions on Southwest Airlines Pet Travel

Each flyer may bring one pet carrier, it accommodates up to two pets of the same species.
Carriers must not exceed 18.5" x 13.5" x 9.5" & must fit under the seat.
Southwest pet policy weight states the pet and the carrier’s combined weight limit is 20 pounds in the cabin.
Pets are not allowed to travel as checked bag or in the cargo hold.
Pets are not permitted on international flights or flights to/from Hawaii.
Unaccompanied minors are not permitted to travel with pets.

Tips for Stress-Free Southwest Airlines Pet Travel

Visit the vet before the trip.
Get all required vaccines updated.
Use only airline-approved soft carriers.
Weigh your pet and carrier if it is as per the Southwest pet weight limit.
Add your scent to the pet's blanket.
Let your pet explore the carrier early.
Avoid feeding your pet right before travel.
Keep water handy but not messy.
Line the carrier with absorbent pads.
Carry treats to calm your pet.
Bring extra wipes and waste bags.
Arrive early to avoid rushed boarding.
Keep your tone calm around your pet.
Don’t remove your pet from the carrier.
Avoid loud distractions near the gate.
Inform the airline staff you’re traveling with a pet.

How much is the Southwest Airlines Pet Fee?

Southwest Pet Fee is $125 each way for pets flying in the cabin. It’s a flat fee. Not tied to distance, destination, or fare type. You’ll need to pay it at the ticket counter when you check in—card only, no cash.

Only small cats and dogs are allowed, and they must stay inside an airline-approved soft-sided carrier for the entire trip. The carrier counts as one of your personal items. So, plan your packing smart.

There’s a cap—six pets per flight. So, booking early matters. Once the limit’s hit, that’s it. No waitlist, no exceptions. Call ahead to get your pet spot locked in.

If your flight gets canceled or you change your mind, that pet fee is refundable. But only if you cancel before the flight or if Southwest cancels and you don’t rebook.

No pets are allowed in the cargo hold. Southwest only flies them in-cabin. That’s their strict rule.

Southwest makes it possible to bring your pet along on many flights. Following their pet policy keeps the trip comfortable for both you and your animal. For questions or assistance with pet travel, call AirCancellation or Southwest customer service at 1-800-435-9792 or 1-888-826-0067. Get the right information for a smoother experience for your furry family member. Regardless of the fur.