Soi Dog Foundation: Compassionate Travel in Phuket, Thailand
Phuket once had around 70,000 stray dogs. Now it’s closer to 6,000. In this episode of The World Vegan Travel Podcast, we talk to Chrissie Miles, who helps manage one of Asia’s largest animal rescue organizations. You’ll hear how their team makes a difference—and how travelers like you can too.
A Mission to Protect Street Animals
This Phuket-based nonprofit started in 2003 and has grown into one of the most respected animal shelters in Southeast Asia. Chrissie, who manages volunteers and visitors, explains how the sanctuary rescues, heals, and finds new homes for thousands of dogs and cats each year.
Fighting Overpopulation with CNVR
One of their biggest tools is the CNVR program—short for Catch, Neuter, Vaccinate, and Return. It’s a humane way to help reduce the number of street animals. Today, the team sterilizes over 20,000 animals every month, helping prevent more suffering in the long run.
A Voice Against Cruelty
The organization also helped shut down the dog meat trade in Thailand and worked with local officials to raise fines and penalties for animal abuse. They continue to support change across Asia through education and undercover investigations.
Visitors and Volunteers Make a Difference
Chrissie shares how easy it is to get involved. Whether you’re taking a short tour or staying longer to volunteer, your time makes a real impact. Volunteers help walk dogs, socialize cats, and build trust with animals who’ve faced hard times.
If you’re flying home internationally, you can even be a flight volunteer, helping adopted pets get to their new families abroad.
What to Do in Phuket (Besides the Beach)
Phuket is full of surprises! Chrissie highlights some lesser-known experiences like:
- Surfing and hiking around Khao Lak
- Visiting ethical animal sanctuaries
- Exploring local night markets and Phuket Old Town
It’s the perfect destination for travelers who want beauty and purpose.
Vegan Travel in Phuket
The October Festival
Every year, Phuket celebrates a lively vegetarian and vegan festival. Locals dress in white, enjoy plant-based food, and take part in colorful rituals. While some traditions—like releasing animals—raise concerns, the festival offers a unique cultural window.
Local Eats
Vegan food is easy to find once you know where to look. Chrissie shares how small eateries often happily prepare delicious vegan versions of Thai favorites.
How You Can Help
There are so many ways to get involved:
- Take a tour at the shelter
- Sign up to volunteer during your trip
- Help transport animals as a flight volunteer
- Donate to support their lifesaving work
- Share their mission on social media
Even a small action can lead to big change.
🎧 Listen to the Episode
Hear the full conversation with Chrissie Miles and learn how animal rescue meets mindful travel in Phuket.
🎙️ Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts or register on our RSS feed to get notified when a podcast goes live!
💛 Connect and Explore More
- Website: soidog.org
- Instagram: @soidogfoundation
- Facebook: Soi Dog Foundation
- YouTube: Soi Dog Channel
- TikTok: @soidogfoundationofficial
✈️ Want to Help?
Plan a visit, donate, or learn how to fly a furry friend to their forever home at soidog.org
Tag @WorldVeganTravel with your Phuket adventures!
Learn More About What is Discussed on the Podcast
- What CNVR means (Catch, Neuter, Vaccinate, Return) and why it matters
- How travelers can volunteer and help walk, play with, or even fly with animals to new homes
- Why Phuket is a great place for vegan travelers and animal lovers
- What the Vegan Festival in October is all about—and why it’s unique!
Other World Vegan Travel Content Connected With This Episode
- Handy Language Guide For Vegan Travelers in Thailand
- Part 2: Favorites Unveiled: Vegan Restaurants, Activities, and Unexpected Joys in Thailand | World Vegan Travel – Brighde Reed | Ep 140
- Part 1: Thai Gastronomy and Compassion: Our Favorite Vegan Thai dishes, Animal Sanctuaries, and Accommodations in Thailand | World Vegan Travel – Brighde Reed | Ep 139
Connect with Chrissie and The Soi Dog foundation
- Email Chrissie
- Website: soidog.org
- Instagram: @soidogfoundation
- Facebook: Soi Dog Foundation
- YouTube: Soi Dog Channel
- TikTok: @soidogfoundationofficial
