What Vaccinations Does Your Dog Need for Boarding
Why Vaccination Requirements Exist for Boarding Facilities
Here’s the thing about boarding facilities — they’re basically like doggy dorms. Tons of dogs sharing space, playing together, and breathing the same air. Without proper vaccinations, one sick pup could spread illness to every dog in the building within days.
That’s exactly why every reputable facility has strict shot requirements. It’s not about making your life harder. It’s about keeping all the dogs safe. And honestly? It protects your dog just as much as everyone else’s.
If you’re planning to use Dog Boarding Services in Long Beach CA, you’ll need to get your paperwork in order first. Most places won’t even let you through the door without proof of current vaccinations. So let’s break down exactly what you need.
Core Vaccinations Every Boarding Facility Requires
Pretty much every boarding facility asks for the same core shots. These aren’t optional — they’re the bare minimum.
Rabies Vaccine
This one’s actually required by law in most states. Your dog needs a current rabies vaccination, and you’ll need to show proof. The timing matters too. If the vaccine expires during your dog’s stay, most facilities will turn you away.
Rabies shots typically last 1-3 years depending on the type your vet administered. Check your records now if you haven’t lately.
DHPP (Distemper Combo)
This combination vaccine protects against four serious diseases:
- Distemper — affects the respiratory and nervous systems
- Hepatitis — targets the liver
- Parainfluenza — a respiratory infection
- Parvovirus — extremely contagious and often fatal
Most vets give this as a combo shot. It’s usually updated annually, though some newer formulations last longer. According to research on canine parvovirus, this disease spreads incredibly easily in group settings, which is why boarding facilities are so strict about it.
Bordetella (Kennel Cough)
This is the big one for boarding specifically. Bordetella causes kennel cough — a highly contagious respiratory infection. Think of it like the common cold for dogs, but way more annoying.
Most facilities require the Bordetella vaccine to be given within 6-12 months of the boarding date. Some even want it administered at least 48 hours before drop-off so it has time to take effect.
Recommended But Not Always Required Vaccines
Beyond the core shots, some facilities recommend additional protection. Dog Boarding Services Long Beach facilities might ask about these depending on their policies.
Canine Influenza
Dog flu has become more common over the past decade. There are two strains — H3N8 and H3N2. Some boarding places now require vaccination against both, especially in areas with recent outbreaks.
The vaccine requires two initial doses given 2-4 weeks apart. So you can’t just get it the day before boarding. Plan ahead.
Leptospirosis
This bacterial infection spreads through contaminated water. If your boarding facility has outdoor play areas or is near wildlife, they might require this shot. It’s becoming more common in urban and suburban areas.
Lyme Disease
Typically only required in areas with high tick populations. Most facilities in coastal regions don’t mandate it, but it’s worth asking.
Vaccination Timeline: When to Get Shots Before Boarding
Timing really matters here. You can’t just show up to the vet the day before and expect everything to work out. Here’s what you need to know:
| Vaccine | Minimum Time Before Boarding | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rabies | Must be current (not expired) | Check expiration date on records |
| DHPP | Must be current | Usually annual or triennial |
| Bordetella | 48 hours to 2 weeks before | Some facilities prefer 2 weeks |
| Canine Influenza | 2 weeks after second dose | Requires two initial shots |
Professionals like Good Leash recommend scheduling your vet visit at least 3-4 weeks before your planned boarding date. That gives you time to handle any vaccines that need boosters or have waiting periods.
What If Your Dog’s Vaccines Aren’t Current?
So your trip is in two weeks and you just realized your dog’s shots expired. Now what?
First, don’t panic. Call your vet immediately. Many vaccines can be given on short notice, and your dog will still have protection within a few days. The Bordetella vaccine, for example, starts working within 48-72 hours.
But some vaccines — like the canine flu shot — need time between doses. If you’re really pressed, you might need to consider alternatives to boarding, like an in-home pet sitter.
When researching Dog Boarding Services in Long Beach CA, always ask about their specific vaccine requirements during your initial call. Some facilities are more flexible than others, and a few offer expedited intake for dogs whose records are almost current.
How to Get and Present Vaccination Records
Most boarding facilities accept a few different forms of proof:
- Vet-issued certificate — The gold standard. Shows all vaccines with dates.
- Digital records — Many vets now email vaccination summaries.
- Vet office phone call — Some facilities will verify directly with your vet.
Keep a copy on your phone. Seriously. It’s saved me more than once when I showed up and couldn’t find the paper copy.
Dog Boarding Services Long Beach providers typically want records that clearly show the vaccine name, date administered, and expiration date. Handwritten notes usually won’t cut it.
Titer Testing: An Alternative Approach
Some dog owners worry about over-vaccinating, especially for older dogs or those with health conditions. Titer testing measures your dog’s existing immunity to certain diseases through a blood test.
Here’s the catch — not all boarding facilities accept titer results. Many still require proof of actual vaccination regardless of immunity levels. It’s worth asking, but don’t assume.
If you want to learn more about pet care resources, titer testing is becoming more widely discussed in veterinary circles as an alternative approach.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I schedule vaccines before boarding?
At least 3-4 weeks before your boarding date. This gives enough time for any multi-dose vaccines and ensures your dog’s immune response is fully active. Last-minute vaccination visits can work for some shots but not all.
Can my dog board without a Bordetella vaccine?
Almost never. The Bordetella vaccine is required by virtually every boarding facility because kennel cough spreads so easily in group settings. Even dogs staying in private suites typically need it since they share air systems with other dogs.
What happens if my dog gets sick right after vaccination?
Mild side effects like tiredness or slight fever are normal for 24-48 hours. If symptoms persist or worsen, contact your vet. Most boarding facilities won’t accept dogs showing signs of illness regardless of vaccination status.
Do puppies need different vaccines for boarding?
Puppies typically need their complete series of puppy shots before boarding, which isn’t finished until around 16 weeks of age. Most facilities won’t accept puppies younger than 4 months even with partial vaccinations.
How often do I need to update my dog’s boarding vaccines?
Rabies varies by state law (1-3 years). DHPP is usually annual or triennial. Bordetella typically requires annual updates, though some facilities ask for it every 6 months for frequent boarders.
Getting your dog’s vaccinations sorted before boarding takes a little planning, but it’s actually pretty straightforward once you know what’s needed. Call your vet, check those dates, and give yourself a few weeks of buffer time. Your dog — and every other pup at the facility — will be better off for it.
