Southwest Airlines·None
Southwest Pet Policy — Cabin, Cargo & Service Animals
Southwest Pet Policy — Cabin, Cargo & Service Animals — Summary
Whether Southwest allows pets in the cabin, cargo options, fees, service animal rules and the destination import requirements that catch owners out.
Key Travel Facts & Insights
- Pets in the cabin: Small vaccinated cats and dogs travel in-cabin in an approved carrier under the seat, on domestic flights only..
- Pets in the hold or cargo: Southwest does not transport pets as checked baggage or cargo at all.
- Pet fees: A per-direction Pet Fare applies, paid at the ticket counter on the day of travel..
- Service animals: Trained service dogs travel free with the DOT form.
Pets in the cabin
Small vaccinated cats and dogs travel in-cabin in an approved carrier under the seat, on domestic flights only.
Pets in the hold or cargo
Southwest does not transport pets as checked baggage or cargo at all. In-cabin is the only option.
Pet fees
A per-direction Pet Fare applies, paid at the ticket counter on the day of travel.
Service animals
Trained service dogs travel free with the DOT form. Emotional support animals are not accepted.
Restrictions and destination rules
No pets on international itineraries. A limited number of pet carriers are permitted per flight, so reserve the space by phone in advance.
Southwest flying with pets — common questions
Can I bring my dog in the cabin on Southwest?
Small vaccinated cats and dogs travel in-cabin in an approved carrier under the seat, on domestic flights only. A per-direction Pet Fare applies, paid at the ticket counter on the day of travel.
Does Southwest accept service animals?
Trained service dogs travel free with the DOT form. Emotional support animals are not accepted.
What are the Southwest pet restrictions?
No pets on international itineraries. A limited number of pet carriers are permitted per flight, so reserve the space by phone in advance.
More Southwest help
Booking Southwest? Talk to a US travel consultant.
Fare rules, baggage allowances and change policies differ by route and fare brand. Our consultants confirm the exact terms attached to your itinerary before you pay — and handle the change or refund if plans move.