What Vaccines Does My Dog Need for Boarding, Daycare or Grooming?
Each business sets its own list, and there is no national rule in the US. A typical list, like PetSmart's, is rabies, the distemper-parvo combination (DHPP or DAPP) and Bordetella (kennel cough) for dogs, and rabies plus FVRCP for cats; for grooming, PetSmart asks only for rabies. Check the business's own list before you book.
What does a large chain ask for?
PetSmart, for example, requires rabies, DAPP/DHPP and Bordetella for dogs in its hotel and day camp, rabies and FVRCP for cats in its hotel, and only rabies for grooming.
| Service | Dogs | Cats |
|---|---|---|
| Boarding (PetsHotel) | Rabies, DAPP/DHPP, Bordetella every 12 months; canine influenza recommended, not required | Rabies, FVRCP |
| Daycare (Doggie Day Camp) | Rabies, DAPP/DHPP, Bordetella every 12 months | — |
| Grooming | Rabies (pets over 16 weeks) | Rabies (pets over 16 weeks) |
How long before boarding should my dog be vaccinated?
Ask the kennel, because each one sets its own deadline: PetSmart, for example, prefers vaccines given 10 to 14 days before check-in.
Protection is not instant. The maker of one intranasal Bordetella vaccine (Merck, Nobivac Intra-Trac 3) says protection can begin as early as 48 hours after vaccination. For dogs at high risk, the AAHA 2022 guidelines say the intranasal Bordetella and parainfluenza vaccine may be given more often than once a year, for example before boarding.
Does my dog need the canine influenza vaccine to board?
Usually it is recommended, not required. The AAHA 2022 guidelines do not recommend it for every dog, but say to consider it especially for dogs that board or go to daycare.
The vaccine needs 2 doses, 2 to 4 weeks apart, the first time, then 1 dose a year (Merck, Nobivac Canine Flu Bivalent). Plan ahead if your kennel asks for it.
What should I bring on drop-off day?
- Proof of vaccines with dates, signed or printed by your vet clinic.
- The rabies certificate (not only the tag).
- A list of medications with the doses your vet prescribed.
- Your vet's phone number and an emergency contact.
Print a pet health record Puppy vaccine schedule
Can a puppy go to daycare before finishing its shots?
A daycare or kennel will ask for the vaccines on its own list, and the puppy core series runs until about 16 weeks of age (AAHA 2022), so plan for that before the first visit.
Check the business's minimum age and ask your veterinarian when your puppy will be protected.