Are you planning to take a trip? If so, you may already be researching boarding options for your dog and preparing everything they'll need for their stay. Our Laguna Beach vets offer advice on what shots your dog will need for boarding.
What shots do dogs need to be boarded?
If you've decided to board your dog while you're on vacation, you'll need to do some planning to ensure that all the facility's requirements are met. The vaccines required for boarding dogs at any reputable boarding facilities are the rabies, Bordetella, and DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus).
Each kennel and boarding facility will have different requirements, so it's important that once you've chosen your desired facility for your pup that you discuss their specific requirements with the staff when it comes to boarding and which shots they require for dogs. If you'd like to board your dog at Canyon Animal Hospital, we require your dog to be up to date with all vaccinations and free of ticks and fleas.
How long after vaccination can my dog be boarded?
Fortunately, the DHPP shot and rabies vaccines are both effective for one to three years depending on the type administered. However. the Bordetella vaccine is only effective for six months. As a result, you shouldn't need to worry too much if you keep your dog's vaccinations current.
It's also okay if you forgot to get a booster shot along the way. We simply ask that you vaccinate your dog at least two weeks before they need to be boarded. However, if you are wondering how long it takes for a vaccine, such as kennel cough, to take effect before boarding, three days should suffice.
What happens if I don't get my dog vaccinated before boarding?
Most dog boarding facilities require pet owners to show proof that their pet's vaccinations are up to date before allowing you to leave your pet at their establishment. If you are unable to provide this information, veterinary facilities that offer boarding may be able to administer your dog's shots on the day you drop your pup off, but it's not recommended to expect that this will be the case.
Vaccinations take time to take effect, so your dog will not be completely immune to contagious diseases that spread quickly when dogs are in close quarters. for example, the kennel cough vaccine for dogs typically takes effect three days after they've received the shot.
If your dog is not immunized, they will likely be denied entry to the boarding facility. However, if they are not turned away, you will also risk exposing them to a variety of infectious, often fatal viruses and diseases that require costly veterinary care to treat.
Other Ways to Prepare for Dog Boarding
Here are some helpful tips about what you can do to make your experiencing boarding your dog as easy as possible for both of you.
Understand the boarding facility's rules and policies.
Before you board your dog at a new facility, ask the staff about the policies, guidelines, and services available. For example, what kind of food do they feed the dogs? What personal items (such as toys, blankets, etc.) are permitted? What are their emergency procedures? Can they administer your dog's medication?
Asking about the policies, procedures, and services the facilities offer can help you determine the best home away from home for your dog.
Check out the facility well ahead of time.
Kennels with a lot of pets can quickly become unkempt. While it is impossible to keep a boarding facility completely sterile, a high-quality one will look and smell fresh. So, before you book your dog's stay, make sure the kennel is organized and clean.
Keep your own emotions in check when you drop off your dog.
Dogs are adept at reading their pet parents' emotions. Your dog will notice if you are stressed, overcompensating, or saying goodbye. Your dog's mood and behavior will reflect this, making it difficult for him to relax after you leave. To make the separation easier, keep things simple, brief, and positive.
Your dog may exhibit different behaviors when they first come home.
It is critical to understand that your dog may behave strangely in the first few days after returning from the kennel. Your dog may be clingy, lethargic, or have diarrhea. They may even overeat or drink. This, however, is a normal reaction to your dog's excitement about returning home. However, if the situation does not improve within a few days, please contact your veterinarian.
Trust your gut when looking for the best place to board your dog.
When choosing a kennel for your dog, we believe it is critical to start by trusting your instinct. If one location does not make you feel comfortable, look for another. Look around at different kennels until you find one you can completely trust.
Boarding Your Dog at Canyon Animal Hospital
We offer comprehensive general daycare and overnight boarding services for dogs and cats in Laguna Beach.
We are able to offer your animal companion a warm and cozy home away from home while you are away. We provide a variety of services, such as daily walks, playtime with staff, kennels that cater to the particular requirements of each dog or cat, and medical boarding.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.
