Planning to Move with a Pet? Read This First 🐕📦

Hi There, Island Adventurers!

The island’s buzzing, the storms are teasing, and Phuket life rolls on..

From pet-friendly travel hacks to jungle hideaways, here’s everything you didn’t know you needed to make the most of this wild little corner of paradise.

But first…

☀️ What’s the Weather Like?

Phuket is riding that classic tropical rollercoaster this week—think warm, breezy mornings with a fair chance of dramatic afternoon thunderstorms.

👉 Check the live Phuket weather forecast here

This week’s highlights:

• 🐾 A step-by-step guide to bringing your pet to Thailand (yes, it’s possible!)
• 🥊 Phuket Muay Thai: a gym where beginners feel like pros
• 🏖️ Green Heart Garden – a hidden treetop gem with epic sea views
• 🎶 Ethnica, Temple of Sound & Jazz Night: the weekend's hottest events

Let’s dive in 👇

STORY THIS WEEK

🐾 Bringing Your Pet to Thailand? Here’s What You Actually Need to Know

Questions I hear all the time:
Can I bring my dog to Thailand?
Is Phuket pet-friendly?
Will my cat survive the heat?
Do I need paperwork — like, a lot?

Yes. Yes. Maybe. And yes.
Moving to Thailand (or even just visiting) with a pet isn’t impossible — but it’s not plug-and-play either. Here’s what I learned doing it myself, so you don’t have to wing it.

✈️ First Things First: The Paperwork Stuff

Before you book your flight or crate your dog, get these things sorted.

1. Vaccinations (Done at least 21 days before your flight)

Dogs need:

• Rabies
  

• Canine distemper
  

• Hepatitis
  

• Parvovirus
  

• Leptospirosis
  

Cats need:

• Rabies
  

• Feline panleukopenia
  

2. Microchip = Non-Negotiable

• Has to follow ISO 11784/11785
  

• Inserted in the neck/shoulder area
  

• Totally painless. But mandatory.
  

3. Pet Passport

• Issued by your local vet after the jabs
  

• Needs to match the microchip and vaccine info
  

• Keep it on you at all times (yes, even at check-in)
  

📨 Next: Ask Thailand for Permission

At least 6 weeks before flying, email the right Animal Quarantine Station:

• Suvarnabhumi (Bangkok): [email protected]
  

• Phuket: [email protected]
  

• Chiang Mai: [email protected]
  

Include:

• Your details
  

• Your pet’s info
  

• Why you’re coming
  

They’ll reply with an import permit in about 3–7 working days.
Print it. Keep it. You’ll need it on arrival.

🛫 At the Departure Airport

Before check-in, go to your country’s veterinary control service.
They’ll check your:

• Passport and flight ticket
  

• Pet passport
  

• Vet certificate
  Then they’ll issue an export certificate. This has to be in English.
  

Double-check everything matches.

🐕 Flying With Your Pet: Each Airline Is Different

Some things to check before you book:

• Breed restrictions
  

• Weight/size limits
  

• Crate requirements
  

• In-cabin vs cargo
  

Pro tip: Ask the airline directly. Don’t rely on the website alone.

🛬 Arrival in Thailand (Welcome to the Tropics)

• Head to Veterinary Control at the airport
  

• Show your paperwork
  

• Pay 500 THB
  

• Should take no more than 30 mins (unless it's chaos)
  

That’s it. You’re in.

🏠 Now What? Living in Thailand With a Pet

1. The Heat Is Real

Thailand’s climate = hot, humid, relentless.
Short walks. Plenty of water. Watch your dog like a hawk for heat stress.

2. Condos Are (Mostly) Pet-Free

99% of Thai condos don’t allow pets.
Even the “pet-friendly” ones often mean only small dogs or cats under 10kg.
Got a Labrador? You’ll need to rent a house or villa.

3. Always Ask First

Before signing a lease, double-check with the owner.
Even if the listing says “pets okay,” get it in writing.

🩺 Vet Clinics & Pet Shops in Phuket

You’ll find plenty.
Phuket’s surprisingly pet-friendly once you're here — regular vet care, food, supplies, and even pet cafés are easy to come by.

🎯 Final Tip

Moving across the world with a pet is a mission.
But with the right prep, it can be smooth.

The key?
Start early.
Triple-check documents.
Don’t guess. Ask.

And once you’re here, enjoy island life with your four-legged sidekick.
They’ll love the beach walks just as much as you do.

HEADLINES

Live Rich From $1,200 A Month In These 4 Thai Expat Havens

Thailand is a wonderland blessed with natural beauty and home to a friendly local population as well as a growing number of expats—as many as 4 million people are said to have chosen “The Land of Smiles” as their new home. —Continue Reading Here

China slump no drag-on for Phuket, says property tycoon

Fears that China’s economic slowdown could batter Thailand’s tourist trade have been brushed aside by a luxury property boss, who insists Phuket is still booming thanks to big spenders from elsewhere.

Phuket’s posh property scene is still sizzling despite fewer Chinese tourists hitting the island and one property mogul reckons it’s all just a blip. —Continue Reading Here

Radisson ready to paint Phuket red

Radisson is ready to paint the town red with the opening in Phuket of its first Radisson Red property in Thailand.

The 388-room Radisson Red Phuket Patong Beach resort  is opening with a promise to blend “art, music and exceptional amenities” in a social hub where “creativity and connection thrive”. —Continue Reading Here

BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT

Phuket Muay Thai

Thinking of trying Muay Thai but feeling unsure?

“Am I too old to start?”

“Will I fit in?”

“What if I’m not fit enough?”

I had those same doubts.

But then I found Phuket Muay Thai, and everything changed.

A Gym That Feels Like Home

Nestled by Rawai Beach, Phuket Muay Thai offers an open-air gym with a welcoming atmosphere. The sea breeze and the sound of waves create a calming backdrop to intense training sessions. The trainers are approachable and patient, making it easy for beginners to feel comfortable.

Training for Everyone

Whether you're a complete novice or have some experience, the gym caters to all levels. The instructors adjust their teaching to suit individual needs, ensuring everyone progresses at their own pace.

More Than Just Fitness

Training here isn't solely about physical fitness; it's about mental strength and personal growth. The supportive community encourages you to push your limits and discover what you're truly capable of.

A Unique Opportunity

Phuket Muay Thai is a licensed and accredited training facility, offering a comprehensive 6-month Muay Thai program. They also assist with obtaining official documentation for the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV), allowing for a 5-year extended stay in Thailand.

Final Thoughts

If you're considering Muay Thai, Phuket Muay Thai is a place where you can start your journey without fear. It's not just about learning a martial art; it's about embracing a lifestyle that fosters discipline, resilience, and community.

Ready to Begin?

Visit their website to learn more and take the first step towards a transformative experience.

WHERE TO GO THIS WEEK

Friday, 16 May – SUBUD at Catch Beach Club

SUBUD is taking over Catch Beach Club on Friday, 16th May! Join us for an unforgettable night of deep sounds, beachfront energy, and the ultimate party atmosphere.

Catch Beach Club, Phuket
Starts: 9 PM

Friday, 16 May – ETHNICA X SPIELMANN

Spielmann bringing his signature sound to elevate the energy even further.

Are you ready to immerse yourself in the magic of Ethnica? Join us and let the rhythm of the night guide you!

Maya Beach Club

Starts: 9 PM

Friday, 16 May – Temple of Sound at The Commune

Asonic journey with sea views and an all-vinyl set from Berlin underground legen Denis Kaznacheev of Nervmusic — a staple at Club der Visionaere.

Also on deck: @holusound, Phuket-based artist and modular wizard behind Batik Music, P14 Podcast, and Enthusiast Place.

No second takes. No compromises. Just pure music.

The Commune

Starts: 9 PM

Saturday, 17 May – Jazz Open Night Vol.8 at Royal Phuket City Hotel

DATE : May 17, 2025

TIME : 07:00 pm - 11:30 pm

VENUE : Royal Phuket City Hotel, Phuket Town

PRICE : THB 1,299 for 1 person / THB 1,999 for 2 person

PHUKET SPOTLIGHT

Green Heart Garden — A Hidden Spot Above Kata

Green Heart Garden is one of those places you’d miss if no one told you about it. It’s up in the hills above Kata, with a big open view of the sea and the town below.

It’s all wood and bamboo, surrounded by trees, and feels calm the second you sit down. I came for a drink and ended up staying for the view — it’s that kind of place.

The team is friendly, the vibe is easy, and it’s perfect if you want some peace without going far.

That’s a wrap, folks!

Got something brewing in Phuket? A story, event, or secret sunset spot? Send it our way—we’re always keen to hear from locals and wanderers alike. Just reply to this email or slide into our DMs.

Until next time, may your coconuts be cold and your flip-flops never break.

With island vibes,
The Phuket Community Team