Cost of Traveling with Pets on Southwest

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 101 views

Understanding Southwest's Pet Policy

When it comes to traveling with pets, Southwest Airlines is a popular choice for many pet owners. However, before booking a flight, it's essential to understand the airline's pet policy, including the costs associated with traveling with your furry friend. In this article, we'll delve into the details of Southwest's pet policy and explore how much it costs to take a pet on Southwest.

Cost of Traveling with Pets on Southwest

According to Southwest's official website, the cost of traveling with pets on the airline is $95 each way. This fee applies to both carry-on pets and service animals. It's worth noting that this fee is non-refundable, so it's essential to ensure that your pet is traveling with you before booking a flight.

Carry-On Pets

If you're planning to bring your pet on board as a carry-on, you'll need to pay the $95 fee each way. Carry-on pets are allowed in the cabin, but they must be in an approved carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. The carrier must be well-ventilated and provide enough space for your pet to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.

Service Animals

Service animals are also subject to the $95 fee each way. However, service animals are allowed to accompany their owners in the cabin without a carrier. Service animals must be trained to behave in a public setting and must be under the control of their owner at all times.

Additional Fees and Requirements

In addition to the $95 fee, there may be other costs associated with traveling with your pet on Southwest. For example, if you need to check your pet's carrier, you may be charged a fee for the checked bag. It's also essential to ensure that your pet's carrier meets Southwest's size and weight requirements.

Carrier Size and Weight Requirements

Southwest's pet carrier size and weight requirements are as follows:

Carrier must be 18.5 inches long, 14 inches wide, and 8.5 inches tall
Carrier must weigh no more than 40 pounds
Carrier must be well-ventilated and provide enough space for your pet to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably

Tips for Traveling with Pets on Southwest

Traveling with pets can be stressful, but with some planning and preparation, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey for both you and your pet. Here are some tips for traveling with pets on Southwest:

Book a Direct Flight

If possible, book a direct flight to minimize the stress and discomfort associated with traveling with pets. Direct flights also reduce the risk of your pet being lost or delayed.

Choose a Comfortable Carrier

Select a carrier that is well-ventilated and provides enough space for your pet to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Consider a carrier with a soft, padded interior to ensure your pet's comfort during the flight.

Prepare Your Pet

Before the flight, make sure your pet is well-rested and comfortable. Feed your pet a light meal the night before the flight, and avoid giving them any food or water during the flight to prevent discomfort and mess.

Check Southwest's Pet Policy

Before booking a flight, check Southwest's pet policy to ensure that you understand the costs and requirements associated with traveling with your pet. You can find Southwest's pet policy on their official website or by contacting their customer service department.

Conclusion

Traveling with pets on Southwest can be a convenient and enjoyable experience, but it's essential to understand the costs and requirements associated with traveling with your furry friend. By following the tips outlined in this article and understanding Southwest's pet policy, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey for both you and your pet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about traveling with pets on Southwest:

Q: How much does it cost to take a pet on Southwest?

A: The cost of traveling with pets on Southwest is $95 each way.

Q: Do I need to pay the fee for service animals?

A: Yes, service animals are subject to the $95 fee each way.

Q: What are the carrier size and weight requirements for Southwest?

A: The carrier must be 18.5 inches long, 14 inches wide, and 8.5 inches tall, and weigh no more than 40 pounds.

Q: Can I check my pet's carrier?

A: Yes, you can check your pet's carrier, but you may be charged a fee for the checked bag.

Q: How can I ensure my pet's comfort during the flight?

A: You can ensure your pet's comfort during the flight by choosing a comfortable carrier, preparing your pet before the flight, and avoiding giving them any food or water during the flight.

References

Southwest Airlines. (n.d.). Pet Policy. Retrieved from https://www.southwest.com/assistive-services/pet-policy
Southwest Airlines. (n.d.). Traveling with Pets. Retrieved from https://www.southwest.com/traveling-with-pets

Note: The references provided are subject to change and may not be up-to-date. It's essential to check Southwest's official website or contact their customer service department for the most current information.

Understanding Southwest's Pet Policy

When it comes to traveling with pets, Southwest Airlines is a popular choice for many pet owners. However, before booking a flight, it's essential to understand the airline's pet policy, including the costs and requirements associated with traveling with your furry friend. In this article, we'll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Southwest's pet policy.

Q&A: Traveling with Pets on Southwest

Q: How much does it cost to take a pet on Southwest?

A: The cost of traveling with pets on Southwest is $95 each way. This fee applies to both carry-on pets and service animals.

Q: Do I need to pay the fee for service animals?

A: Yes, service animals are subject to the $95 fee each way. However, service animals are allowed to accompany their owners in the cabin without a carrier.

Q: What are the carrier size and weight requirements for Southwest?

A: The carrier must be 18.5 inches long, 14 inches wide, and 8.5 inches tall, and weigh no more than 40 pounds. The carrier must also be well-ventilated and provide enough space for your pet to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.

Q: Can I check my pet's carrier?

A: Yes, you can check your pet's carrier, but you may be charged a fee for the checked bag. The fee for checking a pet carrier varies depending on the airline and the route.

Q: How can I ensure my pet's comfort during the flight?

A: You can ensure your pet's comfort during the flight by choosing a comfortable carrier, preparing your pet before the flight, and avoiding giving them any food or water during the flight.

Q: Can I bring my pet in the cabin with me?

A: Yes, you can bring your pet in the cabin with you, but they must be in an approved carrier that fits under the seat in front of you.

Q: Do I need to make a reservation for my pet?

A: Yes, you need to make a reservation for your pet when you book your flight. You can do this by calling Southwest's customer service department or by booking online.

Q: Can I travel with multiple pets?

A: Yes, you can travel with multiple pets, but you will need to pay the $95 fee each way for each pet.

Q: Are there any restrictions on the types of pets that can travel on Southwest?

A: Yes, there are restrictions on the types of pets that can travel on Southwest. For example, pets that are too large or too heavy to fit in a carrier may not be allowed on the flight.

Q: Can I travel with a pet that has a medical condition?

A: Yes, you can travel with a pet that has a medical condition, but you will need to provide a letter from a veterinarian stating that the pet is fit to travel.

Q: Can I travel with a pet that is pregnant?

A: Yes, you can travel with a pet that is pregnant, but you will need to provide a letter from a veterinarian stating that the pet is fit to travel.

Q: Can I travel with a pet that is in heat?

A: No, you cannot travel with a pet that is in heat. Southwest has a policy of not allowing pets that are in heat to travel on their flights.

Conclusion

References

Southwest Airlines. (n.d.). Pet Policy. Retrieved from https://www.southwest.com/assistive-services/pet-policy
Southwest Airlines. (n.d.). Traveling with Pets. Retrieved from https://www.southwest.com/traveling-with-pets