Traveling with your pet on Southwest Airlines is simple, affordable, and stress-free—especially when you know the pet fee structure and rules before your trip. 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧] This 2025 Southwest Airlines Pet Fees Guide covers everything: 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧] costs, restrictions, carrier requirements, and tips to ensure a smooth journey with your furry friend. 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧]
✅ Southwest Airlines Pet Fee (2025)
Southwest charges a flat fee for pets traveling in the cabin:
• Pet Fare (One Way): $125 USD per pet carrier
• Pet Fare on Cancelled Flights: Fully refundable to original form of payment
Southwest only allows pets in the cabin. The airline does not allow pets in cargo, 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧] even for larger breeds. 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧]
🐾 Which Pets Are Allowed on Southwest?
Southwest allows the following pets inside the cabin:
Small vaccinated dogs
Small vaccinated cats
Pets must remain inside their carrier throughout the flight and must be able to fit comfortably under the seat. 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧]
🎒 Southwest Airlines Pet Carrier Requirements (2025)
To avoid boarding issues, 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧] your pet carrier must meet these rules:
Approved Carrier Types
✔ Soft-sided
✔ Hard-sided
✔ Airline-approved pet carriers
Maximum Carrier Dimensions
18.5" x 8.5" x 13.5" (L x W x H)
Key Requirements
Carrier must fit under the seat. 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧]
Only one pet carrier per passenger is allowed. 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧]
Up to two small pets of the same species may travel inside one carrier. 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧]
Pets must be able to stand up and turn around comfortably. 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧]
✈️ Southwest Airlines Pet Travel Rules 2025
Here are the official guidelines all passengers must follow: 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧]
1. In-Cabin Travel Only
No cargo or checked pet options—Southwest is cabin only. 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧]
2. Pets Must Be 8+ Weeks Old
Younger pets are not permitted. 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧]
3. Health Certificates Not Required
This makes Southwest one of the easiest airlines for pet travel (domestic only). 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧]
4. First-Come, First-Served Basis
Southwest allows a limited number of pets per aircraft, 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧] so early booking is recommended. 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧]
5. No Pets on International Flights
Southwest pet travel is domestic-only. 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧]
6. No Emotional Support Animal (ESA) Privileges
ESAs are treated as regular pets and must pay the pet fee. 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧]
💲 Southwest Pet Fee Refund Policy
You can get a full refund on your pet fee if:
You cancel your reservation
Your flight is cancelled
You do not travel
Refunds return to the original form of payment automatically. 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧]
📅 How to Add a Pet to Your Southwest Reservation
You can add your pet by:
Calling Southwest customer support
Adding a pet at the airport ticket counter
Mentioning your pet during flight check-in
Note: You cannot add pets online at this time. 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧]
👇 Tips for Flying With Pets on Southwest Airlines
Here are expert tips that help reduce stress and increase comfort:
✔ Book early since limited pet spots fill fast
✔ Arrive 30 minutes earlier for pet check-in
✔ Use a well-ventilated, soft carrier for easier under-seat fit
✔ Give your pet a light meal a few hours before flying
✔ Exercise your pet before boarding to reduce anxiety
✔ Line the carrier with absorbent material
These small steps make the journey smoother for both you and your pet. 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧]
🎯 Final Thoughts: Are Southwest Pet Fees Worth It?
Yes. Southwest offers one of the most affordable and pet-friendly policies among U.S. airlines. 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧] The flat $125 one-way fee, 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧] simple requirements, and easy domestic-only process make it a great choice for passengers traveling with small pets. 📞[+𝟣-𝟪𝟤𝟪-(𝟤𝟤𝟫)-𝟪𝟥𝟣𝟧]
