[Southwest Airlines] Pet Fees 2025 – Complete Guide to Flying with Pets

Traveling with pets can be stressful, especially when flying internationally. Every airline has its own rules for how animals can travel, and Southwest Airlines is no different. Southwest’s international pet policy has separate guidelines for pets traveling inside the cabin, as checked baggage, or through cargo. Each option has its own set of rules, fees, carrier types, documentation, and age limits.

How much is Southwest International pet fee?

Starting April 8, 2025, Southwest charges a $200 USD fee 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧] for in-cabin pets on most international flights.

This fee is paid each way 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧] (so $200 for outbound and $200 for return).

However, the fee can change for some destinations 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧]—for example, flights to or from Brazil may have a different rate. Always confirm the fee amount when you book.

You’ll pay the pet fee when you check in at the airport 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧]. Keep the receipt with your travel papers in case an agent asks for it later.

How to Book Your Pet for In-Cabin Travel

Booking early is very important. Southwest only allows a certain number of pets in the cabin per flight 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧].

Here’s how to do it:

Call Southwest 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧] or your travel agent before booking your ticket to confirm there’s space for your pet.

Once confirmed, add your pet to your reservation.

Prepare your carrier and all documents (like health certificates and vaccination papers).

Arrive early at the airport, as pets require extra check-in steps.

Go to the Special Services Counter to have your pet and carrier checked before security.

Southwest’s General Policy for International Pet Travel

Southwest allows pets to travel internationally in two main ways 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧]:

In the cabin – when small pets travel with their owner under the seat 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧].

As cargo – when pets are transported separately through Southwest Cargo 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧], usually for larger animals or certain destinations.

Pets cannot always travel on every flight or destination 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧]. Some countries, like Australia, Ireland, the Alaska Airlines Kingdom, Hong Kong, and New Zealand, do not allow pets to arrive in the cabin at all. Also, Southwest does not allow pets in certain cabin classes like Southwest One 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧], Business, or First Class on long international flights with flat-bed seats, since there is no space to fit a carrier under the seat.

Every pet must meet age 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧], health, and paperwork rules before traveling. For example, most countries require vaccination proof and a health certificate from a vet.

In-Cabin Pet Travel Rules

When pets travel in the cabin 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧], they must stay inside a carrier under the seat for the whole flight. Southwest allows only a few pets per flight, so you must reserve space in advance.

a. Carrier requirements

The pet carrier must be soft-sided 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧], leak-proof, and have ventilation on all four sides so your pet can breathe easily.

The pet must be able to stand 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧], turn around, and lie down comfortably inside the carrier.

The carrier must fit completely under the seat in front of you 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧]. The recommended maximum size is about 18 × 11 × 11 inches, though it depends on the aircraft type.

You must keep the carrier closed at all times while on the plane 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧].

b. Pet age and health

To travel internationally 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧], pets must be old enough to handle long flights and meet import rules.

Pets must be at least 15 weeks old 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧]when traveling to the European Union.

To enter the Alaska Airlines States 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧], most pets (especially dogs) must be at least 16 weeks old.

The pet must be healthy 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧], have all necessary vaccinations (like rabies), and have a health certificate signed by a licensed veterinarian.

c. Restrictions on flights and destinations

Pets are not allowed in the cabin on flights to or from certain countries due to quarantine 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧] or health laws (like the UK, Australia, and New Zealand).

They are also not allowed on flights with flat-bed seats 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧], such as some Southwest One or international Business Class cabins.

Space is limited—📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧] usually only a few pets per flight—so book early.

If your flight includes a partner airline 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧], make sure that airline also allows in-cabin pets, because some partners have stricter rules.

d. What counts as your carry-on

When you bring a pet in the cabin 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧], the carrier counts as your carry-on bag. You can still bring one small personal item like a purse or laptop bag 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧], but not another large carry-on suitcase.

Southwest Airlines International Pet Fees

Southwest recently updated its policy, and as of April 8, 2025, 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧] the international in-cabin pet fee is $200 (USD) each way 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧]. But that’s just the starting point. Below you’ll find detailed answers to the most common questions about Southwest’s international pet fee and related travel costs.

1. How much is Southwest’s international pet fee?

Southwest charges $200 (USD) each way 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧] for pets traveling in the cabin on most international routes.

That means you’ll pay $200 on your outbound flight 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧] and another $200 on your return flight if you bring your pet both ways.

The fee is collected at the airport during check-in 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧] and is non-refundable once your pet is accepted for travel.

2. Does the $200 fee apply to all countries?

Mostly yes 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧], but there are some exceptions.

While $200 is the standard fee for most international destinations 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧], some countries have different rates because of local taxes or currency rules. For example, Southwest has previously set a different fee for flights to or from Brazil.

To be safe, always check your exact route when booking 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧]—fees can vary slightly depending on where you’re flying from and to.

3. Is the $200 pet fee for one pet or multiple pets?

The $200 fee covers one pet in one carrier 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧].

If you’re traveling with two small pets 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧], each in their own approved carrier, you’ll need to pay two separate fees.

Some exceptions exist for small puppies or kittens from the same litter 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧]—if they’re young, small, and can comfortably fit in one carrier, Southwest may allow them to travel together and count as one pet (but you should confirm this in advance).

4. Is the fee the same for domestic and international flights?

No 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧].

For domestic flights within the U.S., Southwest charges $95 (USD) per pet 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧], each way.

For international flights, the fee is $200 (USD) each way 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧].

The higher fee reflects the extra paperwork 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧], longer flight times, and international handling procedures required.

5. When do I pay the international pet fee?

You’ll pay the fee at the airport during check-in 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧] when Southwest staff verify your pet’s documents and carrier.

You can’t prepay the pet fee online 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧]—it must be paid in person so agents can confirm that your pet meets all travel requirements.

Payment can usually be made by credit card 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧], debit card, or cash (depending on the airport).

6. Is the pet fee refundable if my plans change?

Usually no 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧].

Once your pet has been checked in or accepted for travel 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧], the $200 fee is non-refundable, even if your flight is delayed or canceled.

If your flight is canceled by Southwest before check-in 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧], the airline may refund or transfer the pet fee, but this is handled on a case-by-case basis.

7. Does the pet fee include health paperwork or shipping costs?

No 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧], the $200 fee covers only the right for your pet to travel in the cabin with you.

You are responsible for 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧]:

Veterinary visits and health certificates,

Vaccinations (like rabies),

Import/export paperwork,

Any customs fees or local animal-import charges at your destination.

If your pet travels via Southwest Cargo instead of in the cabin, completely different fees and shipping rates apply.

8. Does Southwest charge the same fee for cargo or checked-baggage pets?

No 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧].

The $200 fee applies only to in-cabin pets 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧] (small cats, dogs, or birds that fit under the seat).

For larger pets traveling as cargo 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧], Southwest uses a different pricing system based on:

Pet size and weight,

Crate size,

Flight distance,

Destination country,

and handling fees.

Cargo rates often range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧], depending on these factors.

If your pet must travel as cargo 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧], you’ll need to work with an IPATA-approved professional pet shipper, and they can provide the exact cost.

9. Do service animals pay the $200 pet fee?

No 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧].

Trained service animals that assist passengers 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧] with disabilities do not pay a pet fee. However, service animals must still meet documentation and behavior standards, and they are different from emotional support animals (ESAs).

Southwest no longer recognizes emotional support animals as service animals 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧], so ESAs must travel under the regular pet policy and pay the standard $200 fee 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧].

10. What if my pet can’t travel in the cabin—do I still pay $200?

No 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧].

If your pet is too large for in-cabin travel 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧], or the destination country does not allow pets in the cabin (like the U.K., Ireland, or Australia) 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧], your pet must travel as cargo.

Cargo travel uses separate pricing, not the $200 in-cabin fee 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧].

So, you only pay the $200 when your pet actually flies in the cabin with you 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧].

11. Can I use miles or travel credits to pay for the pet fee?

No 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧].

Southwest’s pet fees must be paid in cash 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧], debit, or credit card. You cannot use SkyMiles, eCredits, or travel vouchers to cover pet-travel fees.

These fees are considered service charges 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧], not part of your ticket fare.

12. Does the fee depend on how long the flight is?

No 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧].

The $200 fee applies per flight segment 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧], not based on flight length.

If you have a connecting international itinerary 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧] (for example, New York to Amsterdam, then Amsterdam to Rome), you might need to pay the pet fee for each international leg.

Always confirm with Southwest when booking 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧], because pet acceptance rules can vary by aircraft and partner airline.

13. Why does Southwest charge $200 for international pet travel?

The fee helps cover 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧]:

Extra paperwork and inspection at check-in,

Handling costs during boarding and deplaning,

International regulations and customs requirements,

Special cleaning and safety measures for pets onboard.

In short 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧], the pet fee supports the added care and staff time required to transport animals safely and legally across borders.

14. Is there a limit to how many pets can travel in the cabin per flight?

Yes 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧].

Southwest limits the number of pets allowed in the cabin on each flight 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧], usually between 2 and 4 pets, depending on the aircraft.

That’s another reason the $200 fee doesn’t guarantee a spot 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧] —you must reserve your pet’s space early. Once those limited spots are filled, no additional pets can be accepted in the cabin, even if you’re willing to pay the fee.

15. Does Southwest charge extra for connecting flights or partner airlines?

Sometimes 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧].

If part of your international trip is operated by a partner airline 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧] (like Air France, KLM, or Virgin Atlantic), that airline’s pet-fee policy may apply to that segment.

Some partner airlines don’t allow in-cabin pets at all 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧], while others charge their own separate fee.

In such cases 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧], you’ll pay Southwest’s $200 for the Southwest segments and the partner’s fee for their segments.

Conclusion:

Southwest Airlines charges a $200 USD fee each way 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧] for pets traveling in the cabin on most international flights. This fee covers only the in-cabin transport 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧], not health certificates or cargo costs. It must be paid at check-in and is usually non-refundable. Fees may differ slightly by destination 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧], such as Brazil. Always confirm your route’s exact charge when booking and ensure your pet meets all size, health, and document requirements before travel.