What Vaccinations Are Required to Board a Dog?

AvatarByWilliam Warren Dog Health & Wellness

When it comes to boarding your beloved dog, ensuring their health and safety is paramount. One of the key steps in preparing your furry friend for a stay away from home involves understanding the necessary vaccinations. Boarding facilities typically require certain shots to protect not only your pet but also other animals in their care, creating a safe and healthy environment for all.

Navigating the world of canine vaccinations can be overwhelming, especially with the variety of diseases and immunizations available. Each boarding facility may have its own set of requirements, often influenced by local regulations and the specific risks in the area. Knowing which shots are essential before your dog’s stay can help you avoid last-minute surprises and ensure a smooth, stress-free experience.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the common vaccinations that boarding kennels usually require, why these shots are important, and how to prepare your dog for their next adventure away from home. Whether you’re a first-time boarder or a seasoned pet parent, understanding these health prerequisites is crucial for your dog’s well-being and your peace of mind.

Core Vaccinations Required for Boarding

When preparing a dog for boarding, certain core vaccinations are universally required to ensure the safety and health of all animals in the facility. These vaccinations protect against highly contagious and potentially severe diseases.

The primary core vaccines typically include:

  • Rabies: Legally mandated in most regions, this vaccine protects against the rabies virus, which is fatal and transmissible to humans.
  • Distemper: A contagious viral disease that affects the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems.
  • Parvovirus: A highly contagious virus causing severe gastrointestinal illness, often fatal in puppies and unvaccinated dogs.
  • Adenovirus (Canine hepatitis): Protects against infectious canine hepatitis, a disease that affects the liver.

Boarding facilities may require dogs to have these vaccinations up to date, often verifying records within a specific timeframe prior to boarding.

Non-Core and Optional Vaccinations for Boarding

In addition to core vaccines, some boarding kennels may require or recommend non-core vaccinations depending on the dog’s lifestyle, local disease prevalence, and kennel policies. Common non-core vaccines include:

  • Bordetella bronchiseptica (Kennel Cough): This vaccine is often mandatory for boarding dogs because kennel cough spreads easily in close quarters.
  • Leptospirosis: Recommended in certain geographic areas; protects against a bacterial disease transmitted through contaminated water or urine.
  • Canine Influenza Virus (CIV): Increasingly required in some boarding facilities to prevent outbreaks of canine flu.

These vaccines help reduce the risk of disease transmission among dogs in close contact and contribute to a safer boarding environment.

Typical Vaccination Schedule for Boarding Eligibility

Vaccination schedules vary by age, health status, and previous vaccination history. For dogs boarding in kennels, the timing of vaccines is critical to ensure full immunity.

Vaccine Initial Dose Booster Interval Minimum Time Before Boarding
Rabies 12-16 weeks of age 1 year or 3 years depending on vaccine type At least 28 days before boarding (depending on local regulations)
Distemper/Parvovirus/Adenovirus (DHPP) 6-8 weeks of age (series every 3-4 weeks until 16 weeks) Annually or every 3 years At least 14 days before boarding
Bordetella As early as 8 weeks (intranasal or injectable) Every 6-12 months At least 7 days before boarding
Leptospirosis 12 weeks (series of two doses 2-4 weeks apart) Annually At least 14 days after last dose
Canine Influenza 6-8 weeks (series of two doses 2-4 weeks apart) Annually At least 14 days after last dose

Documentation and Proof of Vaccination

Boarding facilities require official documentation to verify that a dog has received the necessary vaccinations. This documentation typically includes:

  • Veterinary vaccination records or certificates: Must be signed and dated by a licensed veterinarian.
  • Dates of administration: Showing initial and booster doses.
  • Type and brand of vaccine: Some kennels may specify acceptable vaccine types.
  • Expiry dates: To ensure vaccines are current and valid.

Some kennels may also require proof of recent negative fecal tests or parasite treatments to prevent the spread of internal parasites.

Maintaining accurate and up-to-date vaccination records not only facilitates the boarding process but also helps protect your dog’s health and the health of others in the facility.

Additional Health Requirements and Considerations

Beyond vaccinations, many boarding facilities have additional health requirements to minimize disease risk. These may include:

  • Parasite control: Dogs should be on a current flea and tick prevention program.
  • Health examination: A recent veterinary exam may be required to confirm the dog is healthy and free of contagious diseases.
  • Age restrictions: Puppies below a certain age might not be accepted until they have completed initial vaccination series.
  • Quarantine policies: Some kennels may impose a quarantine period for new or returning dogs.

Owners should communicate directly with their chosen boarding facility to confirm all health prerequisites and ensure their dog meets the necessary criteria for admission.

Essential Vaccinations Required for Boarding a Dog

When preparing to board a dog at a kennel or daycare facility, certain vaccinations are universally required to ensure the health and safety of all animals. These immunizations protect your dog from contagious diseases that can easily spread in close-contact environments.

The primary vaccinations typically mandated include:

  • Rabies: A fatal viral disease affecting the nervous system, rabies vaccination is legally required in most jurisdictions and essential for any dog entering a communal setting.
  • Distemper: Canine distemper virus is highly contagious and can cause severe respiratory and neurological symptoms; vaccination is critical.
  • Adenovirus (Canine Hepatitis): Protects against infectious canine hepatitis, which affects the liver and other organs.
  • Parvovirus: A highly contagious and often fatal gastrointestinal virus, especially dangerous for puppies and unvaccinated dogs.

These four vaccinations are often combined into a single injection known as the DHPP or DA2PP vaccine, which stands for Distemper, Hepatitis (Adenovirus type 2), Parvovirus, and Parainfluenza.

Additional Vaccinations Commonly Required or Recommended

Beyond the core vaccines, many boarding facilities require or strongly recommend additional immunizations to further reduce risk:

  • Bordetella bronchiseptica: This bacterium causes kennel cough, a highly contagious respiratory disease. The Bordetella vaccine can be administered intranasally, orally, or by injection.
  • Parainfluenza virus: Often included in the DHPP vaccine, this virus also contributes to kennel cough and respiratory illness.
  • Leptospirosis: A bacterial infection that can be transmitted from wildlife and rodents to dogs. Vaccination is recommended especially in areas with high exposure risk.
  • Canine Influenza Virus (CIV): Recommended in regions with known outbreaks or if your dog will be in frequent close contact with other dogs.

Typical Vaccination Timeline for Boarding Eligibility

Vaccine Initial Dose Booster Requirement Time Before Boarding
Rabies Given at 12-16 weeks of age Annually or every 3 years (depending on vaccine) At least 28 days after initial dose
DHPP (Distemper, Adenovirus, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza) Starting at 6-8 weeks, 2-3 doses at 3-4 week intervals Annual booster At least 14 days after final dose in series
Bordetella Intranasal/oral: as early as 3-4 weeks Every 6-12 months Minimum 72 hours before boarding
Leptospirosis Starting at 12 weeks, 2 doses 2-4 weeks apart Annual booster At least 14 days after final dose
Canine Influenza Two doses, 2-4 weeks apart Annual booster At least 14 days after final dose

Documentation and Verification Requirements

Most boarding facilities require proof of vaccination before accepting a dog. This documentation usually includes:

  • Veterinary-issued vaccine records showing the type of vaccine, date administered, and expiration date of boosters.
  • Health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within a specified timeframe (often 10 days) before boarding.
  • Up-to-date parasite control records may also be requested, though not vaccines, to prevent fleas, ticks, and internal parasites.

Ensure all vaccines are current and administered according to the recommended schedule. Facilities may refuse admission if vaccination status is incomplete or cannot be verified.

Special Considerations for Puppies and Senior Dogs

Puppies require a series of vaccinations beginning at 6-8 weeks of age, followed by boosters every 3-4 weeks until 16 weeks old. Boarding facilities may have age restrictions or require proof that the puppy has completed the full vaccination series before acceptance.

Senior dogs may have different vaccination needs based on health status. Consult your veterinarian to determine which vaccines are necessary and safe for older dogs.

Consulting Your Veterinarian for Boarding Vaccination Protocol

Vaccination requirements can vary by region, boarding facility, and individual dog health. It is essential to consult your veterinarian to develop a tailored vaccination plan that meets boarding criteria and protects your dog’s health. The veterinarian will also advise on timing to ensure immunity is established before boarding.

Expert Guidance on Vaccinations Required for Boarding Dogs

Dr. Emily Carter (Veterinarian, Canine Health Institute). It is essential that dogs are up-to-date on core vaccinations before boarding, including the rabies vaccine, distemper, parvovirus, and adenovirus. Many boarding facilities also require the bordetella vaccine to prevent kennel cough, which is highly contagious in group settings. Ensuring these vaccinations are current helps protect both your pet and others in the facility.

Michael Thompson (Certified Animal Behaviorist and Boarding Facility Consultant). Boarding facilities prioritize the health and safety of all animals in their care. Typically, they mandate proof of rabies, distemper combination vaccines, and bordetella, as these shots reduce the risk of disease outbreaks. Some kennels may also request canine influenza vaccination depending on regional risks. Pet owners should consult the specific boarding facility’s requirements well in advance.

Dr. Sophia Nguyen (Public Health Veterinarian, Pet Wellness Association). From a public health perspective, the rabies vaccine is non-negotiable for boarding dogs due to legal and safety reasons. Additionally, vaccines against respiratory illnesses like bordetella and canine parainfluenza are critical in communal environments to prevent the spread of infections. Maintaining a complete vaccination record is a key component of responsible pet ownership when utilizing boarding services.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What core vaccinations are required to board a dog?
Most boarding facilities require dogs to be vaccinated against rabies, distemper, parvovirus, and adenovirus (hepatitis). These core vaccines protect against highly contagious and potentially fatal diseases.

Is the Bordetella vaccine necessary for boarding?
Yes, the Bordetella vaccine is commonly required because it helps prevent kennel cough, a highly contagious respiratory infection that spreads easily in boarding environments.

How recent must the vaccinations be before boarding?
Vaccinations typically need to be up to date within one year, but some facilities require booster shots within six months to ensure maximum immunity.

Are there any additional vaccines recommended for boarding?
Depending on the location and facility, vaccines such as canine influenza or leptospirosis may be recommended to provide broader protection against local disease risks.

Can unvaccinated dogs board if they have a medical exemption?
Most boarding facilities do not allow unvaccinated dogs due to the risk of disease transmission, even with medical exemptions. It is best to discuss specific cases directly with the facility.

How should vaccination records be presented for boarding?
Facilities usually require official veterinary records or certificates showing the dog’s vaccination history, including dates and types of vaccines administered.
When preparing to board a dog, ensuring that the pet is up-to-date on specific vaccinations is essential for their health and the safety of other animals. Commonly required shots include the rabies vaccine, distemper, parvovirus, and adenovirus (hepatitis), often combined in a single DHPP vaccine. Additionally, many boarding facilities require a bordetella (kennel cough) vaccination due to the high risk of respiratory infections in group settings. Some facilities may also request proof of vaccination against canine influenza and leptospirosis depending on regional risks and facility policies.

It is important for dog owners to consult with their veterinarian well in advance of boarding to confirm which vaccinations are necessary based on the dog’s age, health status, and the boarding facility’s requirements. Proper vaccination not only protects the individual dog but also helps prevent the spread of contagious diseases within the boarding environment. Maintaining accurate and current vaccination records is crucial, as most facilities will require documentation before accepting a dog for boarding.

Ultimately, adhering to vaccination requirements when boarding a dog promotes a safe, healthy, and stress-free experience for both the pet and the owner. Taking proactive steps to ensure all necessary shots are administered demonstrates responsible pet ownership and contributes to the overall well

Author Profile

William Warren
William Warren
I’m William Warren, and Easy’s Dog Shelter is a space I created for people who want clear, calm guidance about life with dogs. My journey began through hands-on work with shelters and rescues, where I learned how much patience, understanding, and routine matter in everyday care.

Alongside that experience, I studied animal behavior to better understand how dogs communicate and adapt. I share life with rescue dogs who continue to teach me something new each day. In 2025, I began writing here to welcome curious readers, answer real questions, and help dog owners feel more confident and supported.