ATLANTA (CNN) -- Delta Air Lines is the latest carrier to prohibit carrying animals in cargo bays due to summer heat.

Delta said it was joining a number of airlines that either restrict or prohibit checking animals because of heat or because tight schedules and turn-around times don't allow special handling for animals.

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Delta said passengers could check animals once again after September 15.

American Airlines also restricts taking animals as checked baggage during the summer. The carrier says it does not accept live animals for transport as checked baggage from June 8 through September 15.

TWA said it may restrict traveling with pets as checked baggage during summer months on connecting flights, due to possible lengthy taxi times at hub airports.

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Southwest Airlines does not accept animals as checked baggage for any of its flights. The carrier says airplane turn-around time, averaging 20 minutes, does not allow for cargo requiring special handling, such as pets. However, the airline does allow animals on-board in certain cases. Southwest told CNN, "The only animals we carry are assistance animals for our customers with special needs. These animals ride in the cabin at the customers feet."

Delta, American and TWA still allow passengers to bring pets as carry-on baggage during summer months. Delta allows only one animal per flight, as long as it fits into an airline approved carrier that fits underneath the plane's seat. American allows one pet carrier per passenger. A fee, usually about $50-$60 one-way, must be paid by the passenger.

Because rules for carry-on baggage and for taking animals as checked baggage vary from airline to airline, most carriers advise calling ahead of time for specific procedures regarding animal transportation.