Is Thailand the Most Pet-Friendly Country in the World?

Are you considering a move overseas but worried about how your beloved pets will adapt? Thailand, often celebrated for its warm smiles and gentle people, just might be the most pet-friendly place in the world. Whether you’re a “dog lady” like my sister or simply someone who can’t imagine life without a furry companion, Thailand offers a unique and welcoming environment for pets and their owners.

My sister, now 57, has been contemplating a move overseas. Naturally, I suggested Thailand, my home for the past 25 years. However, as someone who can’t live without at least three canine companions, she had her reservations. "Do Thai people eat dogs?" she asked, reflecting a common but outdated stereotype. Once reassured that this was not the case, her concerns shifted: "What about veterinarian services? Grooming? Pet supplies? Would we have to make food for our dogs? Do they even have PetSmart?"

These concerns are common among prospective expats, but they couldn’t be further from the truth. If you’re curious about how pets are treated in Thailand, read on to discover why this country is a paradise for pet lovers.

Thailand’s Street Dogs: A Unique Bond

When I first moved to Bangkok, there was a motorbike taxi stand on the corner of my street. The drivers, usually six to ten men, would gather under a tree, chatting and feeding three fat dogs that belonged to no one. Here in Thailand, these "soi dogs" (street dogs) are a common sight. You’ll see this scene replicated on countless street corners and taxi stands across the country.

If the temperature drops from 30 C to 25 C, you’ll find these street dogs dressed in shirts and pajamas, provided by the drivers who earn a modest $10 a day. This small act of kindness—ensuring that a stray dog isn’t cold—captures the essence of how Thai people view animals.

For many Thais, dogs are more than just pets; they’re family. This deep connection is often rooted in both emotional and spiritual ties. The late King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX, 1946-2016), Thailand’s most beloved monarch, shared a legendary bond with his royal dog, Tongdaeng, a copper-colored mixed breed. This relationship, immortalized in numerous portraits, has inspired many Thais to lavish their pets with the same level of care and luxury.

Sign with her happy pack at Hug Mha, Bangkok's premier pet hotel and spa.|©Bart Walters

The Rise of Pet Services in Thailand

Thailand’s pet obsession has only grown over the years, especially following the COVID-19 pandemic. A survey conducted in February 2022 revealed that 14% of respondents in the U.S. acquired a new pet during the pandemic. In Thailand, the number seems even higher, with 49% of respondents expressing a preference for adopting a pet over having a child.

Recognizing this trend, my friend Kavisara Pranee—known as “Sign” to her friends—seized the opportunity to turn her passion for animals into a career. She opened Bangkok’s premier pet hotel and spa, "Hug Mha" (with "Mha" being the Thai word for dog).

Step into Hug Mha, where your dog’s happiness and well-being are the top priority.|©Bart Walters

Tucked away in a quiet suburb in northeastern Bangkok, Hug Mha offers boarding and grooming services for dogs of all sizes and breeds. The well-supplied shop stocks food, toys, treats, shampoos, accessories, clothes, and even a good selection of doggie beds. The main building houses boarding facilities for smaller and medium-sized dogs, while a second building, expanded three times due to high demand, accommodates larger dogs. It also features a spacious natural play area with a high fence to keep the fun contained.

“We’ve already expanded this area three times,” Sign told me. The demand for large animal boarding is quite high.

One of the main features of Hug Mha is its large natural saltwater swimming pool, where doggie divers can enjoy daily workouts, complete with life jackets. Some owners even bring their pets to Hug Mha for diet and exercise programs. It is hilarious to see all those dogs in the pool splashing around. Many have never been swimming before. According to Sign, “For most dogs, it’s the best part of their day.”

Fun in the sun! Happy pups enjoying a day at Hug Mha's dog-friendly pool paradise.|©Bart Walters

Next door to Hug Mha is a café where owners and their dogs can enjoy drinks, snacks, and full meals together. The café even offers custom desserts from Bake and Bone, a canine cake maker that provides doggie birthday cakes for special occasions. And for older dogs or those with health issues, Crystal Pet Hospital, a full-service healthcare facility for pets, is conveniently located right next door.

“The only problem we’ve had is that some dogs don’t want to go home,” Sign said. “They like it better at Hug Mha.”

In all major Thai metropolitan areas, there are pet-friendly hotels and apartments for rent, as well as pet-friendly restaurants, cafes, and parks. I’ve seen advertising for pet relocation services, and Thai Airways is a pet-friendly airline. From what I’ve witnessed, Thailand treats its pets better than many countries treat their people.

Bringing Your Pet to Thailand

If you’re planning to bring your pet from another country to Thailand, the process is relatively straightforward. However, it’s important to contact the Airport Animal Quarantine Station (AQS) by email at least seven days before travel. Specific immunization and health certificates are required, and details can be found on the AQS website. Most of the process can be completed online before you leave home. You’ll need a pet passport and a health certificate, and your pet must be microchipped.

You’ll be applying for an import permit as if you were bringing in livestock. At the airport, once you’ve cleared AQS, you simply go through the Customs check in the "Goods to Declare" queue and pay the duty, which is about 500 THB per animal. If you leave the country with your pet, you’ll need an export permit and will have to repeat the process when you return. Several reputable agencies can handle the import/export process for a fee, making the experience hassle-free.

I spoke with Rainer Heinzman, a German expat who has lived in Thailand for over 25 years and owns eight dogs—three imported and five adopted locally. He strongly recommends using a reputable agency to transport pets and handle paperwork, especially when dealing with Thai customs. "Getting things right on the first try can be challenging, so it’s worth the reasonable fees to let experts handle it," Rainer advises.

While veterinarian services in Thailand are comparable to those in the West, Rainer cautions that prices can vary significantly, so it’s smart to shop around. Finding a vet who speaks English may be challenging in some areas, but local animal shelters, often run by foreigners, can usually provide recommendations.

Pet Shopping and Activities

Pet Safari: A fun and unique shopping spot for all your pet's essentials.|©Bart Walters

Pet shops are ubiquitous in Thailand, offering a wide range of both Thai and imported products. Most pet owners order food online through platforms like Lazada or Shopee, the Asian equivalents of Amazon, which provide a vast selection of options. However, if you prefer shopping in person, Pet Safari’s massive themed stores in Bangkok offer a unique experience. It’s like IKEA for pets, and the Viking-themed store I visited was a particular highlight.

For expats interested in adopting a dog or volunteering to help homeless animals, there are numerous options. The Soi Dog Foundation is the largest nationwide organization, while Worldwide Veterinary Services (WVS) in Chiang Mai also operates extensively across Thailand. Local agencies like Phuket Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) are also readily available in most metropolitan areas.

While dogs are more popular than cats in Thailand, felines are far from neglected. Just last week, I saw a woman walking her cat on a leash along the beach—a sight I never thought possible! There are also cat hotels and spas, similar to those for dogs, and “Cat Cafés” are gaining popularity. These establishments allow cat lovers to enjoy coffee and snacks while interacting with resident cats, many of which are available for adoption. "Catmosphere" in Chiang Mai wins the prize for the best cat café name.

A Pet Lover’s Paradise

If you’re considering a move overseas and are concerned about providing your pet with a healthy and friendly environment, Thailand should be at the top of your list. The country’s deep-seated affection for animals, combined with its wide range of pet services and facilities, makes it an ideal destination for pet lovers. Come and see for yourself—Thailand might just be the most pet-friendly place in the world.