Discover the shocking truths about Southwest Pet Fee policies in 2025. Learn about hidden costs, carrier requirements, and Southwest Airlines pet travel rules that could save you hundreds.

Flying with your furry companion can be both exciting and nerve-wracking, especially when navigating airline pet policies. If you’re planning to travel with Southwest Airlines, understanding their Southwest Pet Fee structure is crucial for a smooth journey. Recent changes to Southwest’s pet policy have left many travelers surprised, confused, and sometimes frustrated. This comprehensive guide reveals five shocking truths about Southwest’s pet fees that every pet owner should know before booking their next flight.

Whether you’re a first-time pet traveler or a seasoned jet-setter with your four-legged friend, these revelations about the Southwest Airlines pet policy could save you money, time, and unnecessary stress. From unexpected fee increases to strict carrier requirements, we’ll uncover everything you need to know about the Southwest carry-on pet cost and travel regulations.

The Current State of Southwest Pet Travel

Southwest Airlines has positioned itself as a pet-friendly carrier, but recent policy changes have significantly impacted pet owners’ travel experiences. The airline allows small vaccinated cats and dogs to travel in the cabin, but the associated costs and restrictions have evolved dramatically over the past few years.

Understanding these changes is essential for making informed decisions about your pet’s travel arrangements. Let’s dive into the five most shocking truths that Southwest doesn’t prominently advertise.

Truth #1: The Southwest Pet Fee Has Increased by 31% Without Warning

The Shocking Price Jump

The most startling revelation is that Southwest’s pet fee has jumped from $95 to $125 each way for U.S. mainland flights, representing a 31% increase that caught many travelers off guard. This significant price hike wasn’t widely publicized, leaving pet owners discovering the increased cost only when booking their flights.

Breaking Down the Fee Structure

The current Southwest Pet Fee structure includes:

• U.S. Mainland Flights: $125 each way per pet carrier
• Hawaiian Inter-Island Flights: $35 each way per pet carrier
• International Destinations: Southwest doesn’t offer international pet travel

Why This Matters for Your Budget

For a typical round-trip domestic flight, pet owners now pay $250 just for their pet’s travel, not including their own ticket. This fee structure makes Southwest’s pet travel costs comparable to or higher than many other major airlines, contradicting the airline’s budget-friendly reputation.

Cost Comparison Table:

Airline	Pet Fee (Each Way)	Round Trip Cost
Southwest	$125	$250
American Airlines	$125	$250
Delta Air Lines	$125	$250
United Airlines	$125	$250
JetBlue	$125	$250

Truth #2: Only 6 Pet Carriers Are Allowed Per Flight – And They Fill Up Fast

The Limited Pet Capacity Reality

Southwest restricts pet travel to only 6 pet carriers per flight, a policy that’s more restrictive than many travelers realize. This limitation means that even if you’re willing to pay the Southwest carry-on pet cost, your pet might not be able to travel on your preferred flight.

The Booking Competition

The limited capacity creates a competitive environment where pet owners must:

• Book pet reservations immediately when purchasing tickets
• Have backup flight options ready
• Consider alternative travel dates if pet spots are unavailable
• Pay the fee upfront to secure the pet’s spot

Strategic Booking Tips

To secure your pet’s spot on Southwest flights:

1. Book Early: Pet reservations open when flight reservations open
2. Call Directly: Sometimes phone reservations have better success rates
3. Consider Off-Peak Travel: Weekday flights often have better pet availability
4. Have Alternatives: Always have backup flights ready

Truth #3: Southwest’s Pet Carrier Requirements Are More Restrictive Than Advertised

The Specific Dimension Requirements

Southwest requires pet carriers to be a maximum of 18.5″ x 8.5″ x 13.5″, but the airline’s marketing materials don’t emphasize how these dimensions compare to standard pet carriers available in most pet stores.

Common Carrier Compatibility Issues

Many popular pet carriers exceed Southwest’s size requirements:

• Standard Small Carriers: Often 19″ x 12″ x 10″ (too wide)
• Airline-Approved Carriers: May fit other airlines but not Southwest
• Expandable Carriers: Not permitted even when compressed

The Hidden Costs of Compliance

Pet owners frequently discover their existing carriers don’t meet Southwest’s requirements, leading to additional expenses:

• New carrier purchase: $50-$150
• Last-minute airport purchases: $100-$200
• Shipping costs for pre-flight carrier delivery: $25-$50

Southwest-Compliant Carrier Features

Your pet carrier must be:

• Leak-proof and well-ventilated
• Soft or hard-sided (both acceptable)
• Able to fit completely under the seat
• Secured with proper latching mechanisms
• Large enough for your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down

Truth #4: The Pet Reservation Process Has Hidden Complications

The Mandatory Advance Booking Requirement

Unlike some airlines that allow day-of pet additions, Southwest requires advance pet reservations. This policy creates several complications:

• No Walk-Up Pet Bookings: You cannot add a pet to your reservation at the airport
• Separate Payment Processing: Pet fees are processed separately from flight tickets
• Limited Modification Options: Changes to pet reservations require calling customer service

The Documentation Maze

Southwest’s Southwest Airlines pet policy requires specific documentation that’s often overlooked:

1. Health Certificate: Required for certain destinations
2. Vaccination Records: Must be current and comprehensive
3. Age Verification: Pets must be at least 8 weeks old
4. Breed Restrictions: Some breeds face additional scrutiny

Service Animal vs. Pet Confusion

Southwest accommodates trained service dogs free of charge, unlike pet dogs which incur the $125 fee. However, the distinction between service animals, emotional support animals, and pets creates confusion:

• Service Animals: Travel free, no carrier required
• Emotional Support Animals: No longer recognized by Southwest
• Pets: Subject to full fee and carrier requirements

Truth #5: Southwest’s Pet Policy Varies Significantly by Destination

Domestic vs. Hawaiian Routes

The fee structure reveals interesting priorities:

• Mainland U.S. Flights: $125 each way (premium pricing)
• Hawaiian Inter-Island: $35 each way (reduced pricing)

This discrepancy suggests Southwest views inter-island Hawaiian travel differently, possibly due to local competition or regulatory differences.

International Travel Limitations

Southwest’s limited international routes mean no international pet travel options, forcing pet owners to:

• Choose different airlines for international trips
• Make complex multi-airline arrangements
• Consider cargo shipping for international moves

Seasonal and Route-Specific Restrictions

Some Southwest routes have additional restrictions:

• Temperature limitations: Extreme weather can halt pet travel
• Aircraft type restrictions: Certain planes don’t accommodate pets
• Destination-specific regulations: Some cities have unique requirements

Additional Shocking Revelations About Southwest Pet Travel

The Refund Policy Surprise

Southwest’s pet fare is refundable if you cancel your reservation or if your flight is cancelled, which is more generous than many airlines. However, processing refunds can take several weeks, and many travelers aren’t aware of this policy.

The Two-Pet Carrier Rule

Each pet carrier can hold up to two small dogs of the same species, but this rule has specific conditions:

• Both pets must be small enough to fit comfortably
• They must be the same species (two dogs or two cats)
• The combined weight cannot exceed carrier capacity
• Both pets must have separate documentation

The Airport Day-of Complications

Many pet owners discover problems on travel day:

• Carrier size checks: Airport staff may measure carriers strictly
• Pet behavior assessments: Anxious pets may be denied boarding
• Documentation reviews: Missing paperwork can prevent travel
• Weather delays: Temperature restrictions can ground pet travel

Expert Tips for Navigating Southwest Pet Fees

Budget Planning Strategies

When budgeting for Southwest pet travel:

1. Factor in the full cost: $250 for round-trip domestic travel
2. Consider carrier costs: Budget $100-$200 for compliant carriers
3. Plan for contingencies: Have backup travel funds available
4. Compare total costs: Sometimes other airlines offer better value

Booking Success Strategies

Maximize your chances of successful pet travel:

• Book immediately: Don’t wait to add pet reservations
• Call customer service: Phone agents often have better access to pet spots
• Consider alternative dates: Flexibility increases success rates
• Have backup plans: Always have alternative travel arrangements

Pre-Travel Preparation

Ensure smooth travel with proper preparation:

1. Carrier training: Acclimate your pet to their carrier weeks in advance
2. Documentation organization: Keep all paperwork easily accessible
3. Health preparations: Schedule vet visits well before travel
4. Trial runs: Practice the airport routine at home

The Hidden Costs of Southwest Pet Travel

Beyond the Basic Fee

The true cost of Southwest pet travel extends beyond the $125 fee:

• Carrier purchase: $50-$200
• Health certificates: $50-$100
• Vaccination updates: $75-$150
• Travel insurance: $25-$50
• Emergency boarding: $100-$300 (if travel is denied)

Opportunity Costs

Consider these indirect costs:

• Limited flight options: Fewer available flights due to pet capacity
• Schedule restrictions: May require less convenient travel times
• Stress and time: Additional planning and preparation requirements

Making the Southwest Pet Travel Decision

When Southwest Makes Sense

Southwest pet travel works best for:

• Domestic travel within the U.S.
• Travelers with small, calm pets
• Flexible schedules allowing early booking
• Budget-conscious travelers who plan ahead

When to Consider Alternatives

Consider other options if:

• Your pet exceeds size requirements
• You need international travel
• Last-minute travel is common
• You have multiple pets

The Future of Southwest Pet Travel

Potential Policy Changes

Industry trends suggest possible future changes:

• Dynamic pricing: Fees may vary by route and demand
• Capacity increases: More pet spots per flight
• Technology integration: Better booking systems
• Enhanced services: Premium pet travel options

Staying Informed

Keep updated on policy changes through:

• Southwest’s official website
• Pet travel forums and communities
• Travel agent communications
• Industry news sources

Comparative Analysis with Other Airlines

Fee Comparison

While Southwest’s $125 fee matches industry standards, the total experience differs:

Southwest Advantages:

• Refundable pet fees
• No change fees for flight modifications
• Generous baggage policies

Southwest Disadvantages:

• Limited pet capacity (6 per flight)
• Strict carrier size requirements
• No international options

Service Quality Comparison

Pet owner reviews consistently highlight:

• Positive: Friendly staff, smooth boarding process
• Negative: Limited availability, strict enforcement of rules
• Mixed: Communication about policy changes

For more expert pet care tips and product recommendations, visit BlithePet.com — your trusted source for pet wellness.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does Southwest charge for pets in 2025?

Southwest Airlines charges $125 each way for pets on U.S. mainland flights and $35 each way for flights between Hawaiian islands. This represents a significant increase from the previous $95 fee, making round-trip pet travel cost $250 for domestic flights.

How many pets can fly on a Southwest flight?

Southwest allows only 6 pet carriers per flight, making pet reservations highly competitive. This limited capacity means pet owners must book their pet’s travel immediately when purchasing tickets to secure a spot.

What size pet carrier is required for Southwest Airlines?

Southwest requires pet carriers to be a maximum of 18.5″ x 8.5″ x 13.5″ and fit completely under the seat in front of you. The carrier must be leak-proof, well-ventilated, and allow your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.

Can I add a pet to my Southwest reservation at the airport?

No, Southwest requires advance pet reservations and does not allow day-of pet additions. Pet reservations must be made when booking your flight or by calling customer service before your travel date.

Are Southwest pet fees refundable?

Yes, Southwest’s pet fare is refundable if you cancel your reservation or if your flight is cancelled. This policy is more generous than many other airlines, though processing refunds may take several weeks.

Do service animals pay pet fees on Southwest?

No, properly trained service dogs fly free on Southwest and don’t require carriers. However, emotional support animals are no longer recognized and would be subject to regular pet fees and restrictions.

Conclusion

The Southwest Pet Fee landscape has changed dramatically, with the $125 per-way cost representing a significant investment for pet owners. The five shocking truths revealed in this guide—from the 31% fee increase to the limited 6-pet-per-flight capacity—demonstrate the importance of thorough planning when traveling with pets on Southwest Airlines.

Understanding the Southwest Airlines pet policy complexities, from strict carrier requirements to advance booking necessities, can save you hundreds of dollars and prevent travel day disasters. The Southwest carry-on pet cost extends beyond the basic fee to include carrier purchases, health documentation, and potential contingency expenses.

While Southwest maintains some advantages like refundable pet fees and friendly service, the combination of increased costs and limited availability means pet owners must carefully evaluate whether Southwest meets their travel needs. Success with Southwest pet travel requires early planning, flexible scheduling, and thorough preparation.

The key takeaway is that informed pet owners make better travel decisions. By understanding these hidden aspects of Southwest’s pet policy, you can make strategic choices that benefit both you and your furry companion.

Have a similar experience with your pet? Share it in the comments below!