Boarding can be the safest, least stressful option when you travel, but only if the facility is right and your dog is ready. The two things that derail a booking are vaccines that are not current and a facility that looks fine online but cannot answer basic safety questions. Plan two to three weeks ahead and work the checklist below before you commit.
Vaccines your dog needs for boarding
Most reputable facilities require proof of core vaccines plus a couple of boarding-specific ones, and they enforce it for every dog on site, which is exactly what you want. Requirements vary by facility and state, so confirm with both your vet and the boarding facility before you book.
- Rabies is required by law in most places.
- DHPP / DAPP covers distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, and parainfluenza.
- Bordetella (kennel cough) is usually required at least a week before the stay and is often boosted every six to twelve months.
- Canine influenza (CIV) is increasingly recommended and is best given about two weeks ahead.
- Leptospirosis is required by some facilities, especially in wetter regions.
The timing matters as much as the list. Immunity takes time to build, so schedule any needed boosters two to three weeks before the stay rather than the day before.
How to vet a boarding facility
Evaluate the facility like a system, not a vibe. A clean lobby is not the same as a safe operation. Ask about supervision, grouping, and the emergency plan, and ask to see where the dogs actually stay.
- Staff-to-dog ratio and whether dogs are genuinely supervised, including overnight.
- Dogs grouped by size and temperament, not mixed indiscriminately.
- Proof of vaccination enforced for every guest, no exceptions.
- Clean, climate-controlled, and securely fenced spaces.
- A written emergency and veterinary plan, with a named vet.
- Webcams or daily updates, and a willingness to do a meet-and-greet or trial day.
What to pack
Packing well prevents most mid-stay problems. Pre-portion food so staff cannot accidentally over- or under-feed, and write down anything that is specific to your dog.
- Pre-portioned food with meals bagged individually, plus a few extra days.
- Medications with clear written instructions.
- Vaccination records, paper or digital.
- A collar with an ID tag and a labeled leash.
- A comfort item such as a bed, a toy, or an unwashed shirt that smells like home.
- Feeding, routine, and emergency-contact notes.
When to book and prepare
Book early for holidays and summer, when good facilities fill fast. A short trial day before a long stay tells you how your dog handles the environment and gives staff a chance to learn their routine. If your dog is anxious, ask how the facility handles stress and whether they can keep your dog in a quieter group.
A note on veterinary care: This content is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary care. Always consult your veterinarian before changing your dog's diet, supplements, medication, exercise routine, or care plan. Every dog is different, and your vet knows yours.