Southwest Airlines – Pet Policy
| Pet Type | Cabin | Checked Baggage / Cargo | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dog | Yes (≥8 weeks, fit in carrier under seat; carrier ≤47 x 21 x 34 cm) | No | Only domestic/PR flights; max 2 per carrier if same species; booking essential; never out of carrier at airport/in-flight |
| Cat | Yes (same as dog) | No | Same requirements; healthy, 8+ weeks, fit, never leave carrier; only travel w/ passenger in same cabin |
| Bird / Rabbit / Reptile / Fish | No | No | Not accepted on any Southwest route |
Important Guidelines
- PETS must be booked early; Southwest has a strict, maximum of 6 pet carriers accepted per flight, and no guarantee of availability without advance booking.
- No pets on international flights (including Hawaii, Jamaica, Bahamas, etc.); domestic U.S. and Puerto Rico only. Emotional support animals must travel as pets subject to fees and size rules.
- Carrier must fit strictly under seat (max 47 x 21 x 34 cm) and be leak-proof, secure, ventilated. Only one carrier per passenger, can hold up to two small pets of same species if comfortable.
- Pets must remain inside carrier at all times during airport and flight.
- No paperwork/vaccination record check for domestic U.S. flights, but up-to-date vaccinations and health recommended. Rabies/vaccine proof may be required for Puerto Rico entry.
- Denied boarding for disruptive, unhealthy, aggressive, or inappropriately contained animals. Large/oversized pets are not accepted under any circumstance.
- Check-in at airport only; not available through curbside or online. Fill out Pet Travel Acceptance form upon check-in.
- Pitstops are not permitted; Southwest does not provide relief areas—plan accordingly for bathroom breaks upon arrival/departure.
Woofly Tips
- Book your pet’s spot as soon as possible, especially around busy holidays, as pet quota per flight is low (only 6 per plane).
- Let your pet become comfortable in its approved carrier before travel. Anxious, vocal, or ill pets are common causes of denied boarding.
- Crew or airport staff may deny entry or require removal of an animal at any time if disruptive, ill, or non-compliant with rules.
- Bring a copy of your pet’s vaccination/health records in case of Puerto Rico or special situation inspection.
- Allow plenty of time to check in at the airport—no online/curbside check-in for pet travelers. Plan to fill out the Pet Travel Acceptance form at the counter.
- Carry water/food for pet comfort before and after flight—no access to animal relief until after landing/exit.
- You cannot sit in exit rows or bulkhead seats with a pet; always plan seating and arrival logistics accordingly.
Last updated: July 27, 2025