Taking a pet out of Thailand
Taking a pet from Thailand to the USA
The US Centers for Disease Control treats Thailand as a high-rabies-risk country, and that shapes everything for dogs.
Last updated 21 May 2026
Rules change — verify before you act
This guide was last reviewed in May 2026. Export rules — Thai DLD procedures, destination-country requirements, airline policies and CDC/APHA rules — change without notice. Use this as orientation, then confirm every current requirement with the DLD and the destination country’s authority before booking.
The CDC rules for dogs
The CDC tightened its requirements for dogs entering the United States. Dogs arriving from a high-rabies-risk country — which includes Thailand — face additional steps, which can include a microchip, a minimum age, a rabies titer test from an approved laboratory, CDC import paperwork submitted in advance, and arrival through specific airports. The exact requirements depend on your dog’s vaccination history and where it was vaccinated.
Because these rules are detailed and have changed recently, check the current CDC requirements directly and well ahead of travel.
Cats
Cats face lighter US requirements than dogs, but still need to be healthy on arrival and meet the rules in force. Confirm the current cat requirements with the CDC and USDA.
The Thai side
Alongside the US rules, your pet still needs to clear the Thai export process — health certificate and DLD export permit. The two sets of paperwork must be consistent.
Frequently asked
Does my dog need a rabies titer test to enter the USA from Thailand?
Because Thailand is treated as a high-rabies-risk country, a rabies titer test from an approved lab is commonly part of the CDC requirements for dogs. Verify the current rules for your dog's specific situation with the CDC.
Where do I check the current US rules?
The CDC governs the disease-control side of dog and cat import, and the USDA the animal-health side. Check both, directly, before you book — these rules changed recently.