Hi there, I went to Phuket in 2005 and bought a ticket to the Phuket Fantasea. It's similar to a mini amusement park with loads of stalls and a great show to end the night on. You can take photos with a tiger cub or baby elephant (not sure of others)

I had it on my bucket list to 'walk' with tigers and getting up close and comfortable with one for less than a minute was priceless.

Close to Pattaya is the Tiger Zoo - this is a must if you are in the area. You will also be able to take photos with young (baby) tigers.

Yes, go to Kanchanaburi, specifically the "Tiger Temple". Monks raise tigers here and they are somewhat accessible to the public, though personally I would not recommend getting so close to an animal like this if you can avoid it