Start early — the main preparations take weeks.

• Visit your vet for a health check.
• Have your pet microchipped (an ISO-standard microchip is normally required).
• Complete the rabies vaccination and other core vaccines, on schedule and with records.
• Choose an airline and travel crate that meet airline rules for pets.

Thailand regulates the import of dogs and cats through the Department of Livestock Development (DLD).

• Apply for the DLD import permit before you travel — request it from the animal quarantine station at your arrival airport.
• Get an official health certificate from a vet in your country, issued shortly before departure.
• Check the rules for your country of origin — vaccination timing, blood tests and quarantine conditions differ.

Pets are inspected on arrival at the animal quarantine station.

• Carry the permit, health certificate and vaccination records with you.
• On arrival at Suvarnabhumi Airport, present your pet and documents at the animal quarantine station.
• Quarantine depends on the permit conditions — confirm in advance whether any period at approved premises applies.

Choose a vet before you need one, and note the nearest emergency hospital.

• Register with a veterinary hospital near your home and save its number.
• Choose pet-friendly housing — check the lease and building rules.
• Keep your vaccination records up to date.

Check opening hours and emergency (night-time) services directly with each hospital before you need them.

Bangkok has dedicated dog parks in several public parks.

• Register for the BMA dog park system online.
• Follow the park rules and leash zones.

The BMA provides dog parks inside public parks. Parks listed on Greener Bangkok:

Rules of use: register online in advance and check in and out each time; your dog must be fully vaccinated (carry proof); keep your pet under control and on a lead outside the off-lead zones; clean up after it; one person can normally handle up to two dogs; children may enter under supervision.