Everything You Need to Know About Southwest Pet Fees & Policy in 2025
Traveling with a pet has never been more common—or more streamlined—than it is today. Southwest Airlines, America’s friendly and affordable carrier, offers a straightforward Southwest Airlines pet fee structure that allows small dogs and cats to join you in the cabin. Whether you’re planning a quick hop to Puerto Rico, a cross-country flight, or simply want to find the best way to book your trip on Kayak, this comprehensive guide covers:
- Overview of Southwest’s Pet Policy
- How Much Is the Southwest Pet Fee?
- Southwest Pet Fee Increase: What Changed?
- Southwest Pet Fee Waiver: When Pets Fly Free
- Booking Your Pet: Step-by-Step Process
- Pet Carrier Requirements: Cat Carrier & Dog Crate Basics
- Southwest Carry On Size & Baggage Policy
- Southwest Customer Service for Pet Travelers
- Flying with Your Dog to Puerto Rico
- Tips for a Smooth Pet Travel Experience
By the end of this post, you’ll know exactly what is the pet fee for Southwest Airlines, how to reserve your spot, and how to avoid surprises at the gate.
1. Overview of Southwest’s Pet Policy
Southwest Airlines allows small, vaccinated dogs and cats to travel in cabin under very specific conditions. Key highlights of the Southwest pet policy include:
- In-Cabin Only: Pets must remain in a carrier beneath the seat in front of you—the airline does not offer cargo or checked-pet services.
- Carrier Limits: One pet carrier per ticketed passenger, holding up to two pets of the same species.
- Pet Count per Flight: Southwest caps carriers to six per flight, so early booking is essential.
- Age & Health: Pets must be at least 8 weeks old, fully weaned, and vaccinated.
This policy ensures all passengers—both two-legged and four-legged—travel safely and comfortably.
2. How Much Is the Southwest Pet Fee?
One of the most common questions is how much is the pet fee on Southwest. Here’s the simple answer:
- Southwest Pet Fee: $125 one way, per pet carrier.
That flat rate applies to all qualifying domestic flights, including routes to Puerto Rico. There are no distance-based surcharges or seasonal spikes—unlike some competitors—so you can budget your trip without worrying about hidden costs.
3. Southwest Pet Fee Increase: What Changed?
Until early 2025, Southwest’s pet fee was $95 each way. In January 2025, the airline announced a Southwest pet fee increase to $125 one way. Reasons cited included:
- Enhanced Carrier Handling: Increased staffing and new training programs for ground crews.
- Improved Cabin Sanitation: Additional cleaning protocols after each flight carrying pets.
- Expanded Pet-Friendly Routes: New service to San Juan, PR, and other popular destinations.
Despite the rise, Southwest’s pet fee remains competitive—similar to Alaska’s $125 fee and lower than United’s $150 charge for in-cabin pets.
4. Southwest Pet Fee Waiver: When Pets Fly Free
Although there’s no general Southwest pet fee waiver for standard furry passengers, two important exceptions apply:
- Service Animals
- Certified service dogs (e.g., guide dogs) fly free of charge under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
- Advance notice and proper documentation (Form 10) are required.
- Emotional Support Animals
- As of March 2021, Emotional Support Animals are treated as pets—no fee waiver. Only service animals qualify for free transport.
Always register your service animal through Southwest’s Accessible Travel Desk to avoid any last-minute fee surprises.
5. Booking Your Pet: Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Verify Eligibility
- Ensure your pet is under 20 lbs combined weight (pet + carrier).
- Carrier dimensions must not exceed 18.5” L × 8.5” H × 13.5” W.
Step 2: Make a Reservation for Your Pet
- Online: During flight booking on Southwest.com, select the “Traveling with Pets” option.
- Phone: Call 1-800-I-FLY-SWA (1-800-435-9792) at least 48 hours before departure.
Step 3: Pay the Pet Fee
- Use a credit/debit card; Southwest gift cards and travel credits cannot cover pet fees.
- Fee: $125 one-way per carrier.
Step 4: Prepare Required Documentation
- Copy of your pet’s vaccination records (rabies, distemper/parvo).
- A health certificate is not generally required for domestic U.S. travel but check state-specific rules if traveling to PR or territories.
Step 5: Web Check-In & Boarding Pass
- Complete Southwest web check-in up to 24 hours before departure.
- Verify the “Pet” notation appears on your boarding pass.
Step 6: Airport Arrival & Check-In
- Arrive at least 90 minutes before departure.
- Present your boarding pass and let the agent tag your cat carrier or dog crate.
Booking early is crucial—Southwest strictly enforces the six-carrier-per-flight limit.
6. Pet Carrier Requirements: Cat Carrier & Dog Crate Basics
Meeting Southwest Airlines pet policy carrier standards is non-negotiable. Here’s what you need:
| Feature | In-Cabin Carrier |
|---|---|
| Maximum Dimensions | 18.5” L × 8.5” H × 13.5” W |
| Weight | Total (pet + carrier) ≤ 20 lbs |
| Type | Soft-sided, well-ventilated, leak-proof bottom |
| Capacity | Up to 2 small dogs or 2 cats of same species |
Cat Carrier Tips
- Look for padded interiors and escape-proof zippers.
- Mesh panels on three sides ensure airflow and visibility.
Dog Crate Insights
- For larger breeds exceeding 20 lbs, Southwest does not accept cargo pets—plan for private pet shuttles if needed.
- Always include absorbent pads and a familiar blanket.
If your itinerary includes a layover, confirm each connecting carrier’s pet policies—especially if switching from Southwest to another airline.
7. Southwest Carry On Size & Baggage Policy
Understanding Southwest baggage policy helps integrate pet travel into your overall packing plan:
- Carry-On Size: 10” D × 16” W × 24” H (overhead bin).
- Personal Item: 18.5” L × 8.5” H × 13.5” W (under-seat)—pet carriers count as your personal item.
- Checked Bags: Two free checked bags per ticketed customer are separate from your pet carrier.
Pro tip: Stow your pet carrier under the seat, then place your personal bag on your lap or in the footwell to maximize space.
8. Southwest Customer Service for Pet Travelers
If questions arise, “What is the pet fee for Southwest Airlines?” or “How much is the pet fee on Southwest?” reach out to:
- Phone: 1-800-I-FLY-SWA (Option 4) for pet reservations and Southwest customer service.
- Live Chat: Available at Southwest.com under “Contact Us.”
- Social Media: @SouthwestAir on Twitter and Facebook Messenger.
Keep your Confirmation Number and pet details handy for faster assistance.
9. Flying with Your Dog to Puerto Rico
Southwest’s network includes flights between the U.S. mainland and San Juan, Puerto Rico. Pet specifics for PR travel:
- Fees & Seats: Same $125 pet fee applies.
- Approval: No additional permits needed for U.S. territories.
- Health: No quarantine, but ensure rabies vaccination is current.
Whether you’re exploring Old San Juan or relaxing on Isla Verde beaches, your pup can join—just book early and pack sun-safe essentials.
10. Tips for a Smooth Pet Travel Experience
- Acclimate Your Pet
- Place the carrier in your living area weeks in advance.
- Exercise Before Boarding
- Tire Fido out with a brisk walk to promote calm cabin behavior.
- Light Meal & Hydration
- Feed 3–4 hours before departure; freeze a small water dish for in-flight use.
- Comfort Items
- Include a favorite toy or blanket to ease separation anxiety.
- Calming Aids
- Vet-approved pheromone sprays (e.g., Adaptil or Feliway) can help.
- Gate Courtesy
- Southwest often pre-boards special-needs passengers; ask to board early with your pet.
With these best practices, both you and your pet will arrive ready to roam.
Reference Domains
- southwest.com
- support.southwest.com
- upgradedpoints.com
- sniffspot.com
- ibiyaya-usa.com
- airlinepolicies.com
- thepointsguy.com
- terminalassistance.com
- seatguru.com
- djangobrand.com
- kayak.com