When planning to board your dog, one of the most important aspects to consider is ensuring that your pet is fully vaccinated. Vaccinations protect your dog, as well as other boarding guests, from contagious diseases. In this article, we’ll explore the essential vaccination requirements, why they are necessary, and how to prepare your dog for a safe boarding experience.
Boarding facilities are environments where many dogs come together, increasing the risk of disease transmission. Vaccinations help prevent outbreaks of serious illnesses by ensuring that your dog is protected and that all animals in the facility share a baseline level of immunity. This not only safeguards the health of individual pets but also maintains a safe and sanitary environment for everyone.
Before boarding, your dog should have received all core vaccinations. These vaccinations protect against diseases that are common and potentially fatal. The standard core vaccines include:
These vaccines are generally administered in a series for puppies, followed by regular boosters throughout your dog’s life. Most boarding facilities require proof that these core vaccinations are up-to-date before your pet can be accepted.
In addition to the core vaccines, many boarding facilities request that your dog is vaccinated against certain additional diseases:
It’s important to note that vaccinations take time to become effective. Most boarding facilities require that your dog’s vaccination is administered at least 10 to 14 days prior to boarding. This waiting period ensures that the vaccine has had ample time to build up immunity and that any potential side effects have been identified.
Always keep a current record of your dog’s vaccinations. Veterinary certificates or an updated pet passport are commonly required by boarding facilities as proof of vaccination. Make sure that the records are legible and include the dates of vaccination and the next due date for booster shots. If you’re boarding your dog for the first time, double-check with the facility to see if they have any specific documentation requirements.
Puppies are especially vulnerable to infections because their immune systems are still developing. As a result, most boarding facilities set a minimum age for boarding—often around 4 months—when puppies have typically received their core vaccination series. If you have a puppy, it’s important to discuss with your veterinarian the best schedule for vaccinations before considering boarding. Some facilities might allow a trial stay or short daycare sessions for vaccinated puppies, but it’s best to wait until your puppy is fully protected.
In a boarding environment, even a single unvaccinated dog can become a source of infection that spreads rapidly. Vaccinations work collectively, creating a protective ‘herd immunity’ that helps prevent the spread of contagious diseases. By ensuring that every dog is vaccinated, boarding facilities minimise the risk of an outbreak, which can be both dangerous for the animals and costly for the facility to manage.
If your dog is due for a booster or has missed a vaccination, contact your veterinarian as soon as possible. Many boarding facilities may postpone a booking if your pet is not fully vaccinated. It’s important to plan ahead, especially if you have upcoming travel or need to board your dog for an extended period. Your veterinarian can help update your dog’s vaccination status promptly, ensuring they meet the facility’s requirements.
Before finalising your booking, have a discussion with the boarding facility regarding their vaccination policies. Ask questions such as:
Clear communication will help prevent any last-minute issues and ensure that your dog is accepted for boarding without any hitches.
Vaccinations are a cornerstone of responsible pet care, particularly in boarding environments where the health and safety of many animals are at stake. By ensuring your dog is up-to-date with both core and additional vaccinations, you not only protect your pet from dangerous diseases but also contribute to a safer boarding experience for all.
Before you book your dog’s boarding, double-check their vaccination records, schedule any necessary booster shots well in advance, and clarify the facility’s requirements. With proper preparation, you can enjoy your time away knowing that your furry friend is in a safe, healthy, and secure environment.
Taking the time to adhere to these vaccination requirements is an investment in your dog’s well-being and a vital step in preventing potential health issues during their stay. With this knowledge, you can choose a boarding facility that not only meets your expectations but also ensures that your pet receives the highest standard of care.
Happy boarding, and here’s to a healthy, happy pet while you’re away!
RehabVet Hotel, an extension of Singapore’s pioneering RehabVet Clinic, offers specialised pet boarding and daycare services tailored for pets requiring rehabilitation and therapeutic care.