If you’re planning a vacation and need to board your beloved furry friend, it’s essential to be well-prepared and ensure all the necessary requirements are met. Reputable boarding facilities typically have certain vaccination requirements for dogs. Let’s take a closer look at the vaccines your dog may need before being boarded.
Vaccines Required for Boarding Dogs
When you choose a boarding facility, they will usually ask for the following shots for your dog:
- Bordetella (kennel cough)
- Rabies
- DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus)
Each boarding facility may have slightly different vaccination requirements. Therefore, it’s crucial to communicate with the staff of your chosen facility to ensure you understand their specific needs.
How long after vaccination can my dog be boarded?
The Bordetella vaccine for dogs remains effective for approximately 6 months. On the other hand, rabies and DHPP vaccines can provide protection for 1 to 3 years, depending on the type administered. By keeping your dog’s shots up-to-date, you can avoid any last-minute panic to get the necessary vaccines.
However, if you’ve missed a booster shot along the way, it’s essential to schedule a vaccination appointment with your veterinarian at least 2 weeks before your dog’s boarding date. It takes time for pets to build up immunity after receiving their shots.
What happens if I don’t get my dog vaccinated before boarding?
Most boarding facilities require proof of up-to-date vaccinations before admitting your dog. If you cannot provide this information, some veterinary facilities offering boarding may be able to administer the required shots on the day of drop-off. However, it’s not an ideal scenario.
Vaccines take time to work and become effective. If your dog is not fully protected, they may be at risk of contracting contagious and potentially fatal diseases that often require expensive veterinary intervention to treat. Unvaccinated dogs are typically turned away from boarding facilities to avoid putting other dogs at risk.
Other Ways to Prepare for Dog Boarding
Aside from vaccinations, there are other steps you can take to ensure your dog has a comfortable and stress-free boarding experience. Here are some helpful tips:
Understand the boarding facility’s rules and policies.
Before boarding your dog at a new facility, it’s important to familiarize yourself with their rules, regulations, and offerings. Make inquiries about their feeding practices, whether you can bring items from home (such as toys and blankets), emergency procedures, and if they can administer your dog’s medication. Knowing the policies, procedures, and services provided by the facility will help you choose the best home away from home for your furry friend.
Check out the facility well ahead of time.
Kennels that accommodate numerous pets can become messy quickly. While it’s impossible to maintain absolute sterility, a high-quality boarding facility should still appear clean and smell fresh. Before booking your dog’s stay, visit the kennel to ensure it is well-organized and properly maintained.
Keep your own emotions in check when you drop off your dog.
Dogs are experts at sensing their pet parents’ emotions. If you’re feeling stressed or overcompensating, your dog will pick up on that, making it harder for them to relax once you leave. To ease the separation process, keep your goodbye simple, short, and positive. Remember, dogs are resilient and will adapt to their new environment.
Your dog may exhibit different behaviors when they first come home.
It’s important to understand that your dog may display various behaviors during the first few days after returning from the kennel. Your pooch might be clingy, lethargic, experience diarrhea, or consume more food and water than usual. These responses are normal as they adjust to the excitement of coming home. However, if the behaviors persist after a few days, contacting your veterinarian is recommended.
Trust your gut when selecting the best boarding facility for your dog.
We believe that trusting your instincts is crucial when choosing a kennel for your furry friend. If you don’t feel comfortable with a particular place or if their policies don’t align with your expectations, don’t hesitate to explore other options. It’s essential to find a boarding facility that you can trust completely, ensuring your dog receives the care and attention they deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What vaccines do dogs need for boarding?
A: Dogs typically need the Bordetella (kennel cough), Rabies, and DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus) vaccines before being boarded.
Q: How long are dog vaccines effective for boarding?
A: The Bordetella vaccine lasts for 6 months, while Rabies and DHPP vaccines provide protection for 1 to 3 years, depending on the type administered.
Q: What happens if I don’t get my dog vaccinated before boarding?
A: Most boarding facilities require proof of up-to-date vaccinations. If you cannot provide this information, your dog may be turned away or put at risk of contracting contagious diseases.
Conclusion
When it comes to boarding your dog, ensuring they have the necessary vaccinations is a crucial aspect of their overall health and well-being. By understanding the required vaccines and taking additional preparatory steps, you can provide your furry companion with a safe and enjoyable boarding experience. Remember to communicate with the boarding facility, visit in advance, manage your emotions during drop-off, and trust your instincts when choosing the best place for your dog.