As a responsible pet owner, ensuring your dog’s health and safety is a top priority, especially when boarding them at a pet salon or daycare. Dog boarding facilities require specific dog vaccines to protect not only your furry friend but also other pets in their care.
If you’re planning to board your pup, here’s everything you need to know about essential dog vaccines for boarding.
Why Are Dog Vaccines Necessary for Boarding?
Boarding facilities host multiple pets in close proximity, increasing the risk of spreading contagious diseases. Vaccinations are the best line of defense, ensuring your pup stays protected while enjoying their stay. Proper vaccination helps prevent outbreaks, providing a safe and healthy environment for all dogs.
Many reputable boarding facilities, including The Dog House Pet Salon’s Doggy Daycare in Houston, TX, enforce strict vaccine policies to uphold pet safety standards.
Additionally, some viruses and bacteria can survive on surfaces for extended periods, making unvaccinated pets more susceptible. Protecting your dog with the necessary vaccines not only ensures their safety but also contributes to the overall well-being of the pet community.
Essential Vaccines for Boarding Your Dog
Before booking a stay for your pup, make sure they have the following vaccinations:
1. Rabies Vaccine
- Why it’s required: Rabies is a fatal disease that affects both animals and humans. It spreads through bites and scratches from infected animals and poses serious risks to public health.
- Symptoms: Aggression, excessive drooling, difficulty swallowing, paralysis, and eventual death if untreated.
- Frequency: Dogs must receive their first rabies vaccine at 12–16 weeks of age, followed by boosters every 1–3 years, depending on local regulations and the type of vaccine used.
- Boarding Requirement: A valid rabies vaccination certificate is mandatory for boarding.
2. Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, and Parvovirus (DHPP) Vaccine
- Why it’s required: This combination vaccine protects against multiple highly contagious and potentially fatal diseases:
- Distemper: A virus that affects the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems, often leading to seizures or death.
- Hepatitis: Causes liver inflammation, which can lead to severe health complications.
- Parainfluenza: A common contributor to kennel cough.
- Parvovirus: A deadly virus that attacks a dog’s gastrointestinal system, leading to severe vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration.
- Frequency: Puppies receive a series of DHPP shots starting at 6–8 weeks, with boosters at 12, 16, and 20 weeks. Adult dogs need a booster every 1–3 years.
- Boarding Requirement: Most facilities require up-to-date DHPP vaccinations.
3. Bordetella (Kennel Cough) Vaccine
- Why it’s required: Bordetella bronchiseptica is a leading cause of kennel cough, a highly contagious respiratory disease that spreads quickly in boarding and daycare environments.
- Symptoms: Persistent coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, fever, and lethargy.
- Frequency: Dogs should receive this vaccine annually, though some facilities recommend a booster every 6 months for high-risk dogs.
- Boarding Requirement: Mandatory for most boarding and daycare facilities.
4. Canine Influenza (Dog Flu) Vaccine
- Why it’s required: Canine influenza (H3N8 and H3N2 strains) spreads through airborne droplets and contaminated surfaces. It can cause severe respiratory illness, similar to human flu.
- Symptoms: Coughing, nasal discharge, fever, lethargy, and loss of appetite.
- Frequency: Requires an initial series of two doses, given 2–4 weeks apart, followed by an annual booster.
- Boarding Requirement: Some boarding facilities, especially in high-risk areas, require this vaccine.
5. Leptospirosis Vaccine
- Why it’s required: Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection that spreads through contaminated water, soil, and urine. It can cause kidney damage, liver failure, and even death, and is transmissible to humans.
- Symptoms: Fever, muscle pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and kidney/liver damage.
- Frequency: Given as part of a combination vaccine or separately, with an initial dose followed by a booster 3–4 weeks later and annual revaccination.
- Boarding Requirement: Required by some facilities, particularly in regions where leptospirosis is prevalent.
How Much Do Dog and Puppy Vaccines Cost?
Vaccine costs vary by location and provider.
- DHLPP (core vaccine): $20–$60 per dose.
- Rabies vaccine: $20–$30.
- Non-core vaccines: Generally under $100 per shot.
Puppies require multiple vaccines early on, but costs decrease as they transition to an adult schedule. To help with costs, low-cost or free vaccine clinics are often available through local animal shelters and humane societies.
Additionally, pet insurance plans may cover some or all core and non-core vaccines. Some veterinary clinics also offer wellness plans that include vaccinations as part of a preventative care package, which can help spread out costs over time.
Can Pets Have Adverse Reactions to Vaccines?
While rare, some dogs may experience side effects from vaccinations. Most reactions are mild and temporary, but severe reactions can occur in rare cases.
Mild Reactions:
- Temporary swelling or tenderness at the injection site.
- Mild fever or fatigue.
- Reduced appetite for a day or two.
- Sneezing or mild coughing after intranasal vaccines.
Severe Reactions (Seek Immediate Veterinary Care):
- Vomiting or diarrhea.
- Facial swelling, particularly around the muzzle and neck.
- Persistent coughing or difficulty breathing.
- Itchy skin, hives, or widespread redness.
- Sudden collapse or weakness.
Most mild reactions resolve within 24 hours, but any concerning symptoms should be reported to a veterinarian immediately. Severe reactions, such as anaphylaxis, are extremely rare but require urgent medical attention.
If a dog has had a previous vaccine reaction, a veterinarian may recommend pre-treatment with antihistamines or a different vaccination schedule to reduce risks.
Proper monitoring after vaccination and discussing any past reactions with your vet ensures your pet’s safety and well-being.
Additional Steps to Prepare Your Dog for Boarding
1. Ensure Your Dog is Up-to-Date on Vaccines
Schedule a vet visit at least two weeks before boarding to ensure all vaccinations are current and effective.
2. Keep Records Handy
Most boarding facilities require proof of vaccination. Bring a copy of your dog’s vaccine records or have your vet send them directly.
3. Consider Flea & Tick Prevention
Boarding facilities recommend flea and tick prevention to keep all pets safe from infestations. Discuss options like oral medications, topical treatments, or collars with your veterinarian.
4. Monitor for Vaccine Reactions
Mild reactions like lethargy or slight swelling at the injection site are common. If your dog experiences severe symptoms such as persistent vomiting, swelling, or difficulty breathing, contact your vet immediately.
5. Acclimate Your Dog to the Boarding Environment
Take your dog for short visits to the boarding facility to help them adjust to the new surroundings and reduce anxiety.
FAQs About Dog Vaccines
● What are 5 in 1 vaccines for dogs?
The 5-in-1 vaccine for dogs, also known as the DHPP vaccine, protects against five serious diseases:
- Distemper – A contagious viral disease affecting the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems.
- Hepatitis (Adenovirus Type 1 & 2) – Causes liver disease and respiratory infections.
- Parainfluenza – A respiratory virus contributing to kennel cough.
- Parvovirus – A severe gastrointestinal illness that can be fatal.
- Parainfluenza – A viral infection affecting the respiratory system.
This combination vaccine helps reduce the number of injections your dog receives while providing comprehensive protection.
● How many vaccinations does a dog require?
A dog typically requires a series of core and non-core vaccinations throughout its life. Here’s a general schedule:
- Puppy vaccinations (6-16 weeks): DHPP, Bordetella, Rabies, and optional vaccines like Leptospirosis and Canine Influenza.
- Booster shots (1-year-old): DHPP, Rabies, Bordetella, and any necessary non-core vaccines.
- Ongoing boosters (every 1-3 years): Core vaccines like DHPP and Rabies require periodic boosters, while non-core vaccines depend on risk factors.
● What is the 7 in 1 vaccine for dogs?
The 7-in-1 vaccine is an expanded version of the 5-in-1 vaccine, protecting against additional diseases:
- Distemper
- Hepatitis (Adenovirus Type 1 & 2)
- Parainfluenza
- Parvovirus
- Leptospirosis (two strains) – A bacterial infection that affects the kidneys and liver.
This vaccine is recommended for dogs in high-risk areas where leptospirosis is prevalent.
● What happens if a dog’s vaccination is delayed?
If a dog’s vaccination is delayed:
- Puppies may be vulnerable to infectious diseases if they don’t complete their initial vaccination series on time.
- Adult dogs overdue for boosters may have reduced immunity, increasing their risk of contracting diseases.
- Some vaccines, like Rabies, are legally required, and delays could lead to non-compliance with local regulations.
- If a long delay occurs, vets may recommend restarting the vaccine series to ensure full protection.
● How long can dogs go without vaccines?
- Puppies: Missing vaccinations during the critical early months can leave them highly susceptible to deadly diseases like parvo and distemper.
- Adult dogs: While immunity from previous vaccinations may offer some protection, immunity weakens over time, leaving dogs vulnerable to disease.
- Rabies vaccine: Most states require dogs to stay up to date on rabies vaccinations, with penalties for non-compliance.
- Depending on the duration of the lapse, dogs that go without vaccines for extended periods may need to restart their vaccination series.
● How many months is a dog fully vaccinated?
Puppies are considered fully vaccinated at 16 weeks (4 months) when they complete their initial series, including DHPP and Rabies. However, they must receive boosters at 1 year old to ensure lasting immunity. Regular boosters every 1-3 years are necessary for ongoing protection.
Keeping your dog’s vaccinations up to date is essential for their health and safety, especially when boarding or socializing with other dogs.
Final Thoughts: Keeping Your Dog Safe & Happy While Boarding
Ensuring your dog has all the required vaccines before boarding is crucial for their health and the well-being of other pets. At The Dog House Pet Salon, we prioritize a safe, comfortable environment for your furry friend.
Book Your Dog’s Stay Today!
Ready to board your pup? Contact us to confirm vaccine requirements and reserve your dog’s spot at our trusted facility. For more information, check out our Doggy Daycare and boarding services.
For additional pet health resources, visit NuVet Labs. By staying up to date with vaccinations, you’re ensuring your pup has a fun, stress-free boarding experience while keeping it healthy and protected.