Did you know that most dog boarding facilities won’t accept unvaccinated dogs? Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an extended trip, ensuring your pup has the right vaccinations is not just a requirement—it’s essential for their safety. Boarding facilities mandate specific vaccines to protect all dogs from contagious diseases, reducing the risk of outbreaks in shared spaces.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about boarding vaccination requirements, why they matter, and how to prepare your dog for a safe, stress-free stay.
Key Takeaways:
- Vaccinations protect your dog and others from contagious diseases.
- Most boarding facilities require Rabies, DA2PP, Canine Influenza CIV and Bordetella vaccines.
- Vaccinations should be updated at least 2-3 weeks before boarding.
- Check specific facility requirements well in advance.
Why Are Vaccines Required for Dog Boarding?
Boarding facilities care for multiple dogs in shared spaces, making disease transmission a serious risk. Required vaccinations help prevent outbreaks, ensuring all dogs stay safe and healthy.
Key Reasons Vaccinations Are Necessary for Boarding
- Disease Prevention: Vaccines protect dogs from serious illnesses like rabies, distemper, and kennel cough.
- Protecting Other Dogs: Even if your dog is healthy, they could carry or spread infections to other dogs.
- Facility Compliance: Most boarding facilities have strict vaccination policies to meet industry standards and legal requirements.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing your dog is vaccinated allows you to board them with confidence.
Required Vaccines for Dog Boarding
Most reputable boarding facilities require core and non-core vaccines. Core vaccines are recommended for all dogs, while non-core vaccines are required based on the boarding environment and risk factors.
1. Rabies Vaccine (Legally Required)
Why It’s Important: Rabies is a fatal viral disease that affects the central nervous system. It can spread through saliva, usually via bites from infected animals.
Vaccination Schedule:
• Puppies get their first rabies shot at 12–16 weeks old.
• A booster is required after one year.
• Adult dogs need rabies boosters every 1-3 years, depending on state laws and vet recommendations.
Boarding Requirement: Mandatory – Dogs must be up to date on rabies vaccinations.
2. Distemper, Adenovirus, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza (DA2PP/DHPP/DAPP)
This combination vaccine protects against multiple dangerous viruses:
• Canine Distemper Virus (CDV): Affects the respiratory, digestive, and nervous systems.
• Adenovirus (Canine Hepatitis): Causes liver and kidney damage.
• Parvovirus: A severe, highly contagious disease that causes vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration.
• Parainfluenza: A respiratory virus that contributes to kennel cough.
Vaccination Schedule:
• First dose at 6-8 weeks old.
• Boosters every 3-4 weeks until 16 weeks old.
• Adult dogs need booster shots every 1-3 years.
Boarding Requirement: Mandatory – Most facilities require proof of DA2PP/DHPP/DAPP vaccination.
3. Bordetella (Kennel Cough) Vaccine
Why It’s Important: Kennel cough is a highly contagious respiratory infection that spreads through coughing, sneezing, and direct contact. Since dogs in boarding facilities are in close quarters, this vaccine helps prevent outbreaks.
Vaccination Schedule:
• Given annually or every 6 months for high-risk dogs.
• Available as injectable, oral, or intranasal.
Boarding Requirement: Usually Mandatory – Some facilities may require Bordetella every 6 months instead of annually.
4. Canine Influenza Vaccine (Dog Flu) (H3N2 & H3N8)
Why It’s Important: Canine Influenza (CIV) is a highly contagious respiratory virus that spreads through coughing, barking, and contaminated surfaces.
Vaccination Schedule:
• Requires two doses, 2-4 weeks apart.
• Annual booster recommended.
Boarding Requirement: Varies – Some facilities require it, especially in areas with known outbreaks.
5. Leptospirosis Vaccine
Why It’s Important: Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection spread through contaminated water, soil, and urine from infected animals. It can also be transmitted to humans.
Vaccination Schedule:
• First dose at 8-9 weeks old.
• Booster 3-4 weeks later.
• Annual boosters recommended in high-risk areas.
Boarding Requirement: Sometimes Required – If the facility is near lakes, rivers, or rural areas.
Possible Side Effects and Risks of Dog Vaccinations
While the benefits of vaccinating your dog far outweigh any potential risks, it’s important to be aware of possible side effects. Severe reactions to vaccines are uncommon, but as with any medical treatment, some dogs may experience mild to moderate symptoms. To ensure their well-being, it’s best to schedule vaccinations at a time when you can closely monitor your dog afterward.
Common Side Effects of Vaccinations
Most dogs tolerate vaccines well, but mild symptoms may occur, including:
✔ Low-grade fever
✔ Fatigue or sluggishness
✔ Temporary loss of appetite
✔ Mild swelling around the face, paws, or injection site
✔ Hives (itchy, raised bumps on the skin)
✔ Occasional vomiting or diarrhea
Severe Reactions (Rare but Serious)
In rare cases, dogs may have an allergic reaction to a vaccine, requiring immediate veterinary attention. Warning signs include:
⚠ Significant facial swelling
⚠ Difficulty breathing
⚠ Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
⚠ Sudden collapse or seizures (anaphylactic shock)
What to Do If Your Dog Has a Reaction
Mild side effects are typically short-lived and indicate that the immune system is responding to the vaccine, just like in humans. However, if your dog shows severe symptoms—such as facial swelling, vomiting, or extreme lethargy—contact your veterinarian immediately.
By staying informed about potential side effects and monitoring your pup after their shots, you can ensure a safe and stress-free vaccination experience.
When Should You Vaccinate Your Dog Before Boarding?
Most vaccines need time to become effective. Ensure your dog’s vaccinations are done well before their boarding stay.
• Core vaccines (Rabies, DA2PP/DHPP): At least 2 weeks before boarding.
• Bordetella: At least 48 hours before boarding (preferably 10 days for full immunity).
• Canine Influenza & Leptospirosis: At least 2-3 weeks before boarding.
Tip: Check with your veterinarian and boarding facility in advance to confirm vaccination requirements and deadlines.
What Happens If a Dog Isn’t Vaccinated?
If your dog is missing required vaccinations:
• They may be denied boarding services.
• They are at high risk of getting sick from unvaccinated or infected dogs.
• They could spread diseases to other dogs and staff.
• You may need alternative care options, such as hiring a pet sitter.
Additional Health Requirements for Boarding
Aside from vaccinations, most boarding facilities also require:
1. Flea & Tick Prevention
Dogs should be free from fleas and ticks before boarding. Some facilities may conduct a flea check at check-in.
2. Parasite Prevention
Some boarding facilities require heartworm prevention or a recent negative fecal test to check for internal parasites.
3. Veterinary Records & Proof of Vaccination
You’ll need to provide written proof of vaccinations from a licensed veterinarian. Digital or hard copies are usually accepted. Still have questions? Visit our FAQs page for more details about our general policies, or contact us directly for specific boarding requirements.
How to Prepare Your Dog for Boarding
1. Schedule a Vet Visit
Book a health check-up at least 2-3 weeks before boarding to update any necessary vaccines.
2. Get Your Dog Comfortable with Boarding
If it’s your dog’s first time boarding, consider a short trial stay or daycare visits to help them adjust. For expert tips on reducing stress, packing essentials, and easing separation anxiety before boarding, read our guide: How to Reduce Stress When Boarding Your Dog
3. Bring Familiar Items
If they have separation anxiety go ahead and bring an item they are comfortable with. Pack their favorite blanket, toy, or food to help reduce stress during their stay.
4. Provide Updated Contact Information
Make sure the facility has your contact details and an emergency contact in case of any issues.
The Canine Club’s Boarding Requirements and Services
At The Canine Club, we take the health and safety of every dog seriously. To board with us, your dog must be up to date on the following vaccinations:
✔ Rabies
✔ Bordetella
✔ Leptospirosis
✔ Distemper
✔ Influenza
For the safety of all our furry guests, no exceptions are made to this policy. Be sure to update your dog’s vaccinations well in advance to secure their spot at The Canine Club! Our facility also offers 24/7 live webcam access so you can check in on your dog anytime for peace of mind.
Vaccinating your dog before boarding is essential for their health, safety, and compliance with facility policies. The Rabies, DA2PP, and Bordetella vaccines are commonly required, while Canine Influenza and Leptospirosis may be needed depending on the facility.
At The Canine Club, we know how important it is to provide a safe, comfortable, and fun environment for your dog while you’re away. Our facility ensures all dogs are up to date on vaccinations and provides a stress-free boarding experience.
To get your dog qualified to stay with us visit our website at https://thecanine.club/apply or call us at (410) 539-7626!
