Adopting a Dog from Thailand: International Process

Adopting a dog from Thailand is about more than welcoming a pet into your home. It is about transforming a life. At Baan Maa Dog Rescue, a UK registered charity, we rescue, rehabilitate and rehome dogs who have faced hardship and neglect. When you adopt internationally, whether to the UK, Europe or the USA, you offer a dog love, safety and the chance of a brighter future.

Our adoption team has extensive experience with international adoptions from Thailand. We take care of the veterinary checks, the paperwork and the safe transport, so your only task is to get ready to welcome your new companion. No matter where you are based, Baan Maa will guide you through every step to make the process smooth, safe and stress free.

If you are ready to change a dog’s life and add a loyal companion to your family, explore the step by step guides below to learn how to adopt a dog from Thailand to the UK, Europe or the USA with Baan Maa.

Adopting a Dog from Thailand to the UK
Bringing a dog from Thailand to the UK is a straightforward process with Baan Maa. Our experienced team handles every step — paperwork, health checks, and travel logistics — so your adoption journey is safe and stress-free.

Step 1: Rabies Titer Test (RTT)
The process begins with a rabies titer test in Thailand, required for UK entry. Once passed, your dog can travel after three months without quarantine. At Baan Maa, all dogs are spayed/neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped. Adopters cover only the cost associated with travel, testing, and flights — we do not charge an adoption fee.

Travel Options for Dogs to the UK
1. Via Amsterdam or Paris (Accompanied Baggage): Dogs travel first to Europe, then onward to the UK by land or sea.
2. Manifested Cargo Direct to the UK: Dogs can arrive directly into London Heathrow, Manchester, or Edinburgh. This option is faster but higher cost.

Our team will guide you on the best route based on your dog’s size and your location.

Adopting a Dog from Thailand to Europe
Adopting from Thailand to Europe is one of the most common international adoptions we arrange. The process is safe and straightforward, and our team handles all medical checks, paperwork, and travel.

Step 1: Rabies Titer Test (RTT)
The process begins with a rabies titer test in Thailand, required for  European entry. Once passed, your dog can travel after three months without quarantine. At Baan Maa, all dogs are spayed/neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped. Adopters cover only the cost associated with travel, testing, and flights — we do not charge an adoption fee.

Travel Options for Dogs to Europe
1. Flight Volunteer (Accompanied Baggage): One of the most affordable methods, with volunteers escorting dogs to Europe.
2. Manifested Cargo: Faster, flexible scheduling, and climate-controlled travel.

We’ll match you with the best option depending on your budget and timeline.

Adopting a dog from Thailand to the USA is a straightforward process, and our experienced adoptions team will take care of every detail for you. From paperwork to travel arrangements, we’ll guide you through each step to ensure a safe, smooth, and stress-free transition for your new furry family member.

Step 1: Rabies Titer Test (RTT)

The first step involves taking a blood sample from your dog here in Thailand, which is then sent to a CDC-approved laboratory. This test confirms that your pet has developed sufficient rabies antibodies. The cost of this test is included in the overall travel expenses.

Once your dog passes the RTT, they will be eligible to travel 45 days later, provided all other requirements are met. At Baan Maa, every dog is already spayed/neutered, fully vaccinated, and microchipped, and we do not charge an adoption fee. Adopters only cover the costs associated with travel such as tests, crate, titer test, and flights.

Step 2: CDC Dog Import Form

All dogs entering the USA must now have a completed CDC Dog Import Form. For dogs under one year old, a recent photo (taken within 15 days of travel) must also be included. Our team will complete this paperwork with you to avoid delays at entry.

Step 3: Arrival Requirements

Because Thailand is considered a high-risk country for rabies, dogs can only arrive into the USA through approved CDC airports with registered animal care facilities. These currently include: Los Angeles (LAX), Atlanta (ATL), Miami (MIA), New York (JFK), Philadelphia (PHL), and Washington D.C. (IAD).

A reservation at a CDC Animal Care Facility is required. If your dog already has a valid RTT result, they may clear quickly. Without it, they could be subject to a 28-day quarantine at the facility.

Travel Options to the USA

1. Accompanied Baggage with a Flight Volunteer
One of the most cost-effective ways to bring your dog to the USA is through a flight volunteer. Our team works hard to match rescued dogs with volunteers flying to the States. This option keeps costs down and often makes the journey less stressful for the dog. Because availability depends on volunteers, it may take time, but we’ll keep you updated every step of the way.

2. Flying by Manifested Cargo
Alternatively, your dog can travel as manifested cargo. Although this is more expensive, it allows for greater flexibility, as your pet can fly at a time and to an airport that suits you best. Dogs travel in climate-controlled crates with access to water throughout the flight. We’ll provide a detailed cost estimate based on your dog’s size, airline, and destination.

Our Promise
No matter which option you choose, our goal is to ensure your pet’s safe and comfortable journey to their new home in the USA. From vaccinations to travel bookings, we’ll handle the details so you can focus on welcoming your new family member.

Due to current Canadian Food Inspection Agency restrictions, international rescue dogs from Thailand cannot enter Canada unless travelling with their owner. Baan Maa can assist owners directly with the process, ensuring safe travel as accompanied baggage.