Southwest - Pet Information

Does the airline allow pets: Yes

Southwest Airlines accepts small vaccinated domestic cats and dogs. All in-cabin pets must be carried in an appropriate carrier, as indicated below and are subject to a $75 Pet Fare each way per pet carrier. The pet carrier counts as the Customer’s carryon bag.

Does the airline allow pets as carry-on: Yes

Southwest Airlines will only accept small cats and dogs in carriers that can be stowed under the Customer’s seat.

Advanced pet arrangements must be made by calling Southwest Airlines Customer Support and Services at 1-800-I-FLY-SWA (1-800-435-9792).

Does the airline allow pets as baggage: No

Does airline allow pets as cargo: No

Does airline have an embargo:

Embargo dates: N/A

Kennel / Pet Carrier Information

Your pet carrier must be able to fit under the seat in front of you. The under-seat dimensions are as follows:

Window Seat: 19"L x 14"W x 9"H
Middle Seat: 19"L x 19"W x 9"
Aisle Seat: 19"L x 14"W x 9"

Documentation Requirements

Restrictions

Customers traveling with a pet may not occupy an Exit Seat or a seat with no forward under-seat stowage.

Southwest Airlines will only carry pets in the cabin; pet carriers are not permitted as checked baggage.

Advanced pet arrangements must be made by calling Southwest Airlines Customer Support and Services at 1-800-I-FLY-SWA (1-800-435-9792).

There will be no more than five (5) scheduled pet carriers per scheduled flight. However, from time to time, circumstances may allow for more (or fewer) than five (5) pet carriers per scheduled flight.

Cats and dogs must be at least eight (8) weeks old for travel.

The animals must be harmless, inoffensive, odorless, and require no attention during flight.

Cats and dogs must remain in the carrier (including head and tail) and the carrier must be stowed under the seat in front of the Customer (Owner) during the entire duration of the flight.

Southwest Airlines will not be responsible if a Customer misses a flight due to the need to take the cat or dog to an outside relief area. Flight departures will not be delayed or held in order for connecting Customers to take a pet to an animal relief area.

If the pet becomes ill during the flight, oxygen or other first aid procedures will not be administered.

In the event of an emergency, an oxygen mask may not be available for the cat or dog.

Southwest Airlines assumes no liability for the health or wellbeing of carryon pets.

Notes

International

Airline Fees

The Pet Fare will be $75 each way per pet carrier.

Southwest - Web Links

Southwest - Contact Numbers

Back to all Airlines