Dog boarding requirements: what kennels ask for

The short answer

Every kennel has its own list, so ask for it when you book. Most ask for:

1. Proof from your vet that vaccinations are current: the vet’s certificate or record card, or a printed history from the clinic.
2. Your contact details and a local emergency contact who can act if they can’t reach you.
3. Your vet’s details and any pet insurance.
4. Notes on food, medication, health and behavior, and signed consent forms.

Your dog should also wear a collar with an ID tag, and the kennel will want the microchip number.

Proof of vaccination: what counts

Kennels want the record your vet issued, not a record you filled in yourself. Ask which formats they accept (the original, a copy, a photo, or an email from the clinic) and by when they need it.

• US: each facility sets its own list within state and local rules. PetSmart PetsHotel, for example, requires written proof from a licensed vet, and many kennels ask for the rabies certificate.
• England: licensed kennels, home boarders and day cares must see an up-to-date veterinary vaccination record. Some may accept a vet’s titer (titre) test certificate instead; that is the kennel’s choice.

Your vet decides which vaccinations your dog needs and when. This page does not recommend vaccines or timings. Some kennels also ask for kennel cough vaccination; ask the kennel what proof it needs, and ask your vet whether and when.

What the kennel will write down about your dog

In England, the law lists what a licensed kennel must record. Having these ready makes check-in quick wherever you live:

• dates of the stay; your dog’s name, age, sex, neuter status, microchip number and breed or description;
• your name, address, phone and email, plus a local emergency contact;
• your dog’s usual vet and insurance;
• relevant medical and behavioral history, diet and any current treatment;
• the dates of the most recent vaccination, worming and flea treatment;
• signed consent forms.

Consent forms you may be asked to sign

• Permission to take your dog to a vet, and which vet the kennel uses. Licensed kennels in England need your written consent first.
• Giving medication.
• Sharing a kennel or meals with your other dog.
• For home boarding: off-leash walks or walks with other dogs.

Paperwork timeline

1. When you book: get the kennel’s written list and ask your vet’s clinic for copies of the records it needs. Clinics can take a few days.
2. About two weeks before: check the vet record covers the stay, and send copies if the kennel asks. If your dog needs a vet visit first, your vet and the kennel will tell you how far ahead.
3. The day before: fill in the checklist below; portion the food and pack the medication.
4. At drop-off: hand over the sheet, sign the forms and confirm how to reach you.

Questions to ask before you book

• Which proof of vaccination do you accept: the original, a copy, a photo, or an email from my clinic? By when?
• Do you accept a titer test certificate?
• Which vet do you use in an emergency, what consent do you need, and how are vet costs handled?
• What happens if you can’t reach me?
• Can my dog eat their own food? How do you give medication?
• Do dogs mix in groups or stay separate? What does a day look like?
• Can I visit before booking? In England, can I see your licence and star rating?

Leaving your dog with a sitter at home instead? Use the dog sitter checklist. Want all the dates in one place? Print the dog health and vaccination record.