Flying to Phuket with Your Pet: A Complete Guide for a Smooth Journey

Flying to Phuket with a pet is a dream come true for many animal lovers—but it comes with paperwork, planning, and plenty of prep. Whether you’re moving to Thailand long-term or planning a holiday with your furry friend, it’s essential to understand Thailand’s pet travel rules and how to navigate the process smoothly.

This guide covers everything you need to know about flying to Phuket with your dog or cat—from airline options to quarantine rules and local tips once you land.

Why Bring Your Pet to Phuket?

Phuket is one of Thailand’s most pet-friendly regions. With open beaches, pet-welcoming restaurants, dog-friendly villas, and access to quality vet care, it’s an ideal destination for animal lovers. But before you and your pet start exploring paradise, you need to tackle the flight logistics.

Yes! Thailand allows dogs and cats to enter the country—if you follow strict pet import guidelines. Your pet must be microchipped, vaccinated, and arrive with the proper documentation. Some airlines allow in-cabin travel, others require pets to fly as cargo or checked baggage.

It all depends on your pet’s size, breed, and the airline you choose.

Can You Fly to Phuket with a Pet?

Step 1: Can You Fly to Thailand with a Pet?

Yes, you can! Thailand allows the import of dogs and cats from most countries, provided they meet strict health and documentation requirements. However, there are differences depending on whether you’re:

Flying with your pet in-cabin
Booking them as excess baggage
Using cargo (manifest) transport

Some airlines offer all three, while others limit options depending on pet size, weather, and aircraft type.

Step 2 Documents You’ll Need to Enter Thailand with a Pet

Thailand has clear import guidelines through the Department of Livestock Development (DLD). Required documents include:

Import Permit (before arrival)

Apply via email at least 7–10 days in advance
Required for each pet entering the country
Email: qsap_bkk@dld.go.th

Health Certificate

Issued within 7 days of travel
Must be signed by a licensed vet
Confirms your pet is healthy and free from contagious diseases

Vaccination Records

Rabies vaccination at least 21 days before travel
Distemper, parvovirus, leptospirosis for dogs
Feline panleukopenia and herpesvirus for cats

Microchip

ISO 11784/11785-compliant microchip is required
Must be readable and linked to vaccination records

Tip: Always carry physical and digital copies of every document when you travel.

Dogs And People Traveling To Phuket At Airport In A Queue

Step 3: Choosing a Pet Friendly Airline

Not all airlines allow pets on international flights. For Phuket, these airlines are often chosen for their pet travel policies:

Qatar Airways – Known for temperature-controlled cargo holds
Singapore Airlines – Allows pets as checked baggage or cargo
Thai Airways – Pets can fly as checked baggage (no in-cabin allowed)
Turkish Airlines – Allows pets in-cabin under 8 kg
KLM / Air France – Pet travel specialists with transit options in Europe

Important: Many airlines do not allow snub-nosed breeds (like French Bulldogs or Persian cats) due to respiratory risks in flight.

Step 4: Crate Training & Travel Prep

Crate Requirements:

Must be IATA-approved hard-shell carrier
Pet must be able to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably
Lined with absorbent material
Ventilated on all sides

Prep Tips:

Start crate training at least 2–3 weeks before the flight
Add familiar-smelling blankets or toys
Feed lightly before departure
Exercise your dog/cat well before heading to the airport

Step 5: Arrival in Phuket – What to Expect

You’ll likely arrive at Phuket International Airport after clearing customs in Bangkok (if transiting). Upon landing:

You’ll go to the Quarantine Inspection Station (QIS)
Present your documents
Pay any applicable import fees (approx. 500-1,000 THB)
Your pet may be inspected for general health

Most pets are cleared within 30-60 minutes. Quarantine is only required if documentation is incomplete or health concerns are present.

Bonus Tips for Stress-Free Travel

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Avoid peak summer travel - airline pet embargoes due to heat

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Use cooling pads or crate fans for long-haul flights

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Sedation is generally discouraged - ask your vet for alternatives

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Label your crate with your contact info in English and Thai

Final Thoughts: Is Flying to Phuket with a Pet Worth It?

Absolutely if you’re prepared. Phuket offers an amazing lifestyle for both you and your pet, with freedom, nature, and community. But the journey requires planning, documentation, and airline coordination.

The reward? Palm trees, open beaches, wagging tails, and a shared life in paradise.