A pet carrying backpack is provided and includes a backpack body having a bottom panel, a front panel, a rear panel, a right-side panel, and a left-side panel that collectively form an interior compartment. The backpack body also has a top portion with a collar that forms an opening through which a head of an animal disposed within the interior may protrude. The collar may be stretchable. Paw holes are disposed on a front of the backpack body which accommodate paws or legs of the animal. Shoulder straps are disposed on and extend from the front panel. A pet carrying platform is disposed on or within the bottom panel. The pet carrying platform includes a frame member and a pad member.