Answered2 years ago
What are the best tips for bringing a pet Chihuahua from the US to Thailand?
I'm researching bringing our Chihuahua to Thailand with me from the US. Anyone have tips for making this process smoother. He's tiny and ancient and would need to come in the cabin with me. I've already got an appointment at a USDA certified Vet. And so far, I've found that Saudia Air only allows pets in Cargo area not inside Cabin. That's what I flew last time to Thailand, obviously there's tons of other airline options for stopover. Thanks!
Answer summary
Traveling with your Chihuahua from the U.S. to Thailand requires thorough planning, especially regarding airline policies and pet import regulations. Many airlines, such as Korean Air and Turkish Airlines, allow small dogs in the cabin, but some, like Saudia Air, require them to travel in cargo. It's essential to have all necessary vaccinations, microchipping, and import permits, with some permits available upon arrival at Thai airports. It's advisable to book flights early due to pet limits and to consider the pet's health, particularly given the challenges of long flights and Thailand's climate. Some users have shared their experiences with various airlines and discussed the costs associated with veterinary certifications. Overall, a focused approach on both the travel and health of your pet is crucial.
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Peter ********
No there aren’t a lot of options. Try Delta / Korean. Leave nothing to chance. Triple check everything. Do not use foreign airlines unless you don’t want your culture to negotiate with or something goes wrong. Book your pet asap. They have a limit of dogs per flight. It’s easy IF you do it right. Call or text me on messenger ever if you want my experience.
Ken ***********
I have flown with air serbia Turkish Airlines and American Airlines and affiliates. I would suggest flying business class at least because it is a long flight and most overseas airports don’t have a potty palace in the airport so check. There are a few airports but it depends which direction you will travel east or west. Cinder lasted 14hrs but had to get authorised escort from Taiwan on one of our trips we have travelled to 8 countries around the world
Steve ********
Korean Air allows pets in the cabin.
Jade *******
OPThanks all for the guidance and advice! Positive and negative 🙂 Like I said, I am still in the research stage of this move. Of course there's positives and negatives to bringing a dog. That's what I am weighing out. Alternative to me not taking him with me is rehoming, I am a responsible pet owner and this dog is pampered beyond belief. That's why I'm even entertaining the thought of the time,effort and money of importing him even if he's in his golden years. He's not an anxious dog, or I wouldn't even consider it. He's extremely easy going, maybe something y'all could take a lesson in. Only half kidding 😉 But I do truly appreciate all the info and guidance! I think we're on the right track of making a decision.
Alan *******
@Jade ******
I am bringing my 13 year old cat with me - I am moving with a retirement visa. I spent months trying to find a solution where he might be happier in an environment in the US without me, but it came down to no option other than a shelter which I think we agree is no option at all. A lot of emotion and tears come with the process and it's a shame when others are not empathetic to what someone may go through before deciding to do such a dramatic move for a pet. Let's keep our fingers crossed everything goes well. BTW, I commented before about long wait for the import permit from suvarnabhumi, but to note it arrived in email this morning! Follow the process and be patient and it all comes together I guess. Good luck with the little one!
David *******
My chihuahua / terrier mix passed this year (sadly), but before that I was looking into bringing him to Thailand. Ask your vet. Mine knew exactly what to do / what was needed.
Dennis ******
Seriously? You think that move would be kind to him, or are you only thinking of yourself? Chihuahuas are nervous at the best of times.
Zabrina ******
You've got to contact the agriculture department and they will give you the information you need. You'll also have to pay a tax unless your dog is a service dog.
Darren **********
Make sure you register him on one of those websites for service animals. Even though it’s fake the airlines will allow him to fly with you not in cargo. Old animals don’t do well in cargo. My dog died during the flight.
John ********
Going to crufts??
Terary **********
There are dogs in Thailand.. Many would be grateful for the home.
Kim *****
I imported my own and saved thousands and did a you tube series on it... Import and Export of Dog into Thailand:
************************************************************************
Jade *******
OP@Kim ****
wow! So helpful, thanks so very much 😊 I will check it out.Kim *****
@Jade ******
message me if you have questions... every airline has its rules. Sometimes you have to work around them and get a little creative ;)
Emma ********
If youre moving here fair enough. If not leave the poor dog at home with someone you trust and who she likes. It's hot and mosquitos and ticks and skin fungus infections here. The flight is a trauma for the dogs and you dog is older. I volunteer in dog rescue
Jade *******
OP@Emma *******
we're moving 🙂
Keith **********
There is literally a company that only does pet flights, all in cabin, not below deck. My wife has worked on this for our 2 dogs, moving to Thailand full time in March 2026. Here's who we've coordinated with.
************************************************************
Jade *******
OP@Keith *********
thanks for the link! I'll look into this.Keith **********
@Jade ******
hope it helps!
Sherry *****
My biggest regret is not bringing my poochie. Miss him so much.
Steve ********
We flew six months ago from Boston to Bangkok with our little Maltese under the seat in front of us in a special soft sided pet carrier on Korean an airlines. They only allow three dogs per flight. Requirements are strict and paperwork is time consuming for all permits, etc but it can be done. She was a great passenger and never barked. The carrier had a zipper top so we were able to give her a little water and food. We did not give her any sedation. We put a diaper on her but she held it for 32 hours. Bangkok animal control was great and very helpful. Much better than USDA. Good luck. We built a house here but rentals that allow pets in Bangkok can be a challenge so try to plan ahead if possible.
Jade *******
OP@Steve *******
thank you for the encouragement!
Brianna *******
Try Qatar or Emirates airlines.
Jason *******
Hopefully the vet talks some sense into you, very selfish of you to take a 18yo dog who is deaf and blind on a trip..
Michael ********
Selfish.
John ********
Great win 🍚 🌾
Kathy ************
Air Canada is the only airline that allows small breed dogs of certain size and weight
Has to be able for the dog to turn around in carrier
Chihuahua $100 from Toronto to BBK
Under my seat
Under cabin is limited to certain number of dogs
Good luck
Has to be able for the dog to turn around in carrier
Chihuahua $100 from Toronto to BBK
Under my seat
Under cabin is limited to certain number of dogs
Good luck
Deborah *******
Good for you! I recommend Gabapentin, ask your vet, its not a sedative just anti anxiety. We asked for a trial pill to witness effects first hand on each pet and then vet prescribed for multiple global trips. Its a game changer when traveling with highly sensitive, emotional animals.
Kathy ************
Jade *******
OP@Deborah ******
good tip thanks. This dog is very old,mostly blind and deaf and honestly sleep most of the day. We wake him up in the morning. Otherwise he's spry and healthy,just old. He's not a very anxious dog.Kathy ************
Sheerene **********
Get a dog sitter. There are people that will come and stay in your home or even do a trade.
Jade *******
OP@Sheerene *********
we're moving from the USKen ***********
@Jade ******
at 18yo I know its hard to let go but the quality of life for your pet should be your priority and flying around the world without stability for your pet is in my opinion something you should consider finding a family too care of him at least until you are completely settled into a home.
Brad *******
Be leery of those saying you can travel in cabin...that's very rare on long haul to Asia.
The best way for your dog is to break up the trip into short segments where he can rest. A 12-16 hour flight is very hard on humans never mind a small pup.
There are companies that handle everything but cost a small fortune
Be aware that Thailand isn't especially pet friendly in terms of apartments, although the streets are full of strays.
The best way for your dog is to break up the trip into short segments where he can rest. A 12-16 hour flight is very hard on humans never mind a small pup.
There are companies that handle everything but cost a small fortune
Be aware that Thailand isn't especially pet friendly in terms of apartments, although the streets are full of strays.
Jade *******
OP@Brad ******
good points. We are considering a stopover maybe in Turkey for a few days/weeks or even a month.Brad *******
@Jade ******
that would be best for the little guy to recover ...❤️Barbara ************
USDA vet. I’m assuming this is necessary for cats too? Do I need a certificate to import pet cats?
Darren **********
@Barbara ***********
yes you do. Even though people say cats are bad that is not true. Cats must go in cargo. And they will get bumped off the flight if there are other animals, such as birds or something, the cats could kill. Even though the cats would never get to the other animals the airlines don’t take a chance. I’ve flown with cats four times and it’s always the same thing.Barbara ************
@Darren *********
what airline did you choose and why, if you please want to share.Darren **********
@Barbara ***********
I flew out of Miami to Doha then ThailandDarren **********
@Barbara ***********
I ended up with Qatar. A few reasons. They are very pet friendly. They didn’t make me verify my dog breed, she was American Bulldog 75 lbs. No extra fee. I got her registered on one of those sites as a service animal. Got her a proper harness. Upon arrival I didn’t have to show anything except the vet export requirements and they treated her like gold. She was right next to me during the flight. She had her own sleeper seat. I’m so happy with my choice. They were great.Barbara ************
@Darren *********
ugh… 😩Darren **********
@Barbara ***********
cats cannot go in the plane. I checked with 11 different airlines when traveling to thailand.Barbara ************
@Darren *********
I thought they could fly in a carrier under the seat. I’m not overly excited to have them in cargo and I didn’t know they would get bumped. Darren **********
@Barbara ***********
what’s the ughJade *******
OP@Barbara ***********
pretty sure it's the same for dogs or cats. When looking on Turkish air pet travel requirements there were actually a ton of banned cat breeds, oddly enough 🤔 that was just for flying from US to Thailand with a stopover in Turkey.Barbara ************
@Jade ******
thank you 😊
Shanay *********
Air Canada allowed the lady beside me to have her small crate under her foot area when we travelled in May. Your doggie looks old, maybe find out is they are fit to travel the stress of a plane.
Jade *******
OP@Shanay ********
yeaaa, he's got a vet appointment scheduled for that. He is 18 years old, mostly blind and deaf but spry as can be and virtually no health problems.Shanay *********
@Jade ******
awe! then take him on an unforgettable trip! 🐶💖Jason *******
@Shanay ********
unforgettable alright, won't be able to see or hear anything...It's bloody 18yrs old, the plane trip will kill it through anxiety at that age.
James *******
Put him on your head and say it's a growth.
Jade *******
OP@James ******
he's ugly enough it may just work 🤔James *******
@Jade ******
I wasn't suggesting that by the way :)
Jim *****************
United or American
Eric *****
I’m curious how much the USDA vet cost you because I’m about to go through this process as well
Ken ***********
@Eric ****
I had mine done in the Bay Area SF it was 150$Eric *****
@Ken **********
wow good infoJade *******
OP@Eric ****
wow! My vet hasn't told me a price. I just made an appointment and said what it was for and they said he'd need a bunch of vaccines and maybe a stool sample/labs. They didn't say an additional cost for the letter. I'm sure the reg appointment will be pricey enough. Hopefully not $600 that's insane. I'd call around and look for cheaper or maybe even worth driving out of town if you're in a pricey area like D.C. or somthing.Ken ***********
@Jade ******
yes there are a bunch of vaccines needed but the paperwork itself should not be more than 150$
Jada *********
@Jade ******
hope the little guy makes it’s through all the vaccinesJade *******
OP@Jada ********
definitely a concern,he's up to Date for my state's standards but will need more.
Kimberly ********
I know prices are different all over. I’ve heard CRAZY pricing on the west coast. We’re in Austin, TX and I think the whole process is costing us around $600/dog. That’s for visit fees, vaccinations, labs, letter, etc.
So maybe ask for a price breakdown.
Also, do your research on the vets and ask lots of questions. Our usual vet is also USDA certified so I assumed they could do the whole process for me and the front desk lady happened to mention that they needed the appointment to get the certificate done to be 3-4 WEEKS before our flight and I was like….uhhh what? They said they had never heard of needing it within 10 days and said they couldn’t do that tight of a turnaround so I had to go find someone else who actually does some of her own research per country.
So maybe ask for a price breakdown.
Also, do your research on the vets and ask lots of questions. Our usual vet is also USDA certified so I assumed they could do the whole process for me and the front desk lady happened to mention that they needed the appointment to get the certificate done to be 3-4 WEEKS before our flight and I was like….uhhh what? They said they had never heard of needing it within 10 days and said they couldn’t do that tight of a turnaround so I had to go find someone else who actually does some of her own research per country.
Jade *******
OP@Kimberly *******
gotcha! Yes, I feel like our local vet here in Virginia is pretty reasonably priced for other things I've had done but you never know. My vet seemed like they were pretty educated on the whole process but I'm definitely learning as much as I can before the appointment.Eric *****
@Jade ******
yea they told me it’s a “special” kind of appointmentJade *******
OP@Eric ****
my regular vet just happened to be USDA certified. I think many are. Just some aren't and you have to use a certified one.Eric *****
@Jade ******
yea, that’s correct. I called my vet and she said it would be about $600 for a letter 😳
Francois ********
Try with AirFrance , Turkish Airlines
Under 8kg your dog can be in cabin with you .
You also need certificate importation from Thailand
Your dog need :
✅Microchip
✅vaccination update
✅ rabies titer ( not for importation but check for going back (export from Thailand to USA ) if you need this one )
Then
✅ permit importation from thailand
You will send all your documents from Your dog and also your
✅ passport copy
✅ e-ticket flight
To
Here it’s the
E-mail :
+66 21 34 07 32 this is the number of the quarantine airport animals
Then they will send you the permit importation certificate ( available 60 days )
🐾🙏🏻👍🏻
Under 8kg your dog can be in cabin with you .
You also need certificate importation from Thailand
Your dog need :
✅Microchip
✅vaccination update
✅ rabies titer ( not for importation but check for going back (export from Thailand to USA ) if you need this one )
Then
✅ permit importation from thailand
You will send all your documents from Your dog and also your
✅ passport copy
✅ e-ticket flight
To
Here it’s the
E-mail :
******************
+66 21 34 07 32 this is the number of the quarantine airport animals
Then they will send you the permit importation certificate ( available 60 days )
🐾🙏🏻👍🏻
Nick ***********
@Francois *******
@Jade ******
an international micro chip! In the US out microchips require a different type of chip reader so when you go to the vet make it is an international chipJade *******
OP@Francois *******
super helpful thank you! Turkish airlines is looking promising!Alan *******
I have a flight with Delta / Korean booked through for pet in cabin. The biggest problem so far has been the import permit application that you have to submit docs through email to the AQS office at the airport. I sent it 2 weeks ago and got a reply the docs are in review. I have emailed twice for status but receive no replies. Have you done that step? Anyone else with experience of that step?
Ken ***********
@Alan ******
yes every airport requires it even on a layover and its best to submit the paperwork within the 6wk timeframe or within a month. Best to call the airport customs I’ve had a few approved and never got a response emailedAlan *******
@Ken **********
thanks. I received the permit in email today. It just took a lot longer than expected.
Peter **********
@Alan ******
You only need the permit upfront when your pet is traveling alone. When you are with your cat or dog you can get the import permit at the airport (at animal health control, opposite of customs check).Ken ***********
@Peter *********
interesting Ive never done that.Alan *******
@Peter *********
thanks! I just saw another link posted with instructions for arriving without the permit acquired in advance. It appears it can be done both ways. If I don't get the permit in email it is good to know this is an option.******************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
Peter *******
What state are you in. Thailand is so hot that thing is gonna die.
Nan **********
@Peter ******
It’s okay to have a dog in Thailand. I’m Thai, and I always have dogs
Kate *******
@Nan *********
my beagle was born in thailand and has lived twice in the uae, Mexico, Florida, and all over Europe. He loves the sun and likes a daily sun bath which can be tricky here in the UK:) we would love to take him back to thailand for a bit. Wonderful country.Kate *******
@Nan *********
so true. We were back for a couple of months this last spring (without him) and it's great seeing all the pups welcomed there now:)Nan **********
@Kate ******
Tell that I welcome him to Thailand. We love dogs 🐶Jade *******
OP@Peter ******
I will reserve my sarcastic reply because it is a Sunday. 🙂Peter *******
To go from Canada to Thailand every year I almost die lol.
Jesper **************
@Peter ******
why ?
Trudy ******
Can’t you put doggi into family respite and enjoy your holiday hassle free without doggy toileting and barking have a break from doggo it would save your pocket a fortune
Jade *******
OPWe're planning on staying 6mo-1yr and then going on to other SE Asian countries for longer. Nobody wants our old cranky Chihuahua 😆 honestly he probably doesn't have another 1-3 years in him
Ken ***********
@Jade ******
if you’re traveling to multiple countries just make sure you’re pet is allowed in the country before hand there are a lot of countries that won’t let your pet in no matter how much you pay them. Unless they are a service dog.
Deb ********
@Jade ******
just remember getting him there is easier than getting them back to a western country. My friend has to leave hers in France (a neutral country), for 3 months before it could return to Australia .
Tony **********
@Jade ******
getting into Thailand with your dog is easy. Getting into other countries FROM Thailand is not. Research carefully.Deb ********
@Trudy *****
she said they're MOVING there.
Jeff ********
@Deb *******
lol no she didn’tTrudy ******
@Deb *******
actually nowhere says she is moving there it says bringing my chihuahua with meDeb ********
@Trudy *****
my mistake!Kimberly ********
You might check KLM? We’re taking our dogs to Thailand in a month but they’re bigger and flying in the hold with Qatar.
Jade *******
OP@Kimberly *******
I checked KLM and the cheapest flight from closest International Airport, 1 way to BKK is $5K economy 😆 I'm looking at Turkish airlines for around $400-600 KLM does allow dogs in Cabin though 👍Nick ***********
@Jade ******
check Asiana I’m pretty sure they allow small dogs in the cabin. It’s a Korean airline and they normally do US-South Korea-ThailandKimberly ********
@Jade ******
omg $5k is insane 😬 I always forget about Turkish! I hope they work out for you!Activity
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