A Complete Guide to Dog Vaccines for Boarding: What Massachusetts Owners Need to Know

Before you drop your pup off at a premium facility like Pawmenities, there is one critical step you can't skip: ensuring your pet has the proper dog vaccines for boarding.

Why Are Dog Vaccines for Boarding So Important?

In a social environment like boarding, dogs interact closely, sharing toys, water bowls, and play spaces. Vaccinations prime your dog's immune system to fight off specific pathogens.

Core Vaccines: The Non-Negotiables

At Pawmenities in Boston, we require three essential vaccinations to keep all our furry guests safe:

Rabies Vaccine

Not just a health concern; it is a legal requirement in Massachusetts. 100% fatal and can be transmitted to humans. Pawmenities accepts both 1-year and 3-year rabies vaccinations.

Distemper Vaccine

Protects against a highly contagious and serious disease affecting the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems. Pawmenities accepts both 1-year and 3-year distemper vaccinations. Many vets administer this as part of the DHPP combination vaccine, which satisfies this requirement.

Bordetella Vaccine

The "kennel cough" vaccine. Highly contagious respiratory infection that spreads quickly in social environments. Pawmenities requires Bordetella vaccination every 6 months to ensure maximum protection in our cage-free playgroups.

Additional Recommended Vaccines

While not required at Pawmenities, many veterinarians recommend these additional vaccines for dogs in social environments:

Canine Influenza Vaccine (H3N8 and H3N2)

Increasingly important in the Boston area. Dog flu can occur year-round. Discuss with your vet if this is right for your pup.

Leptospirosis Vaccine

Bacterial disease spread through wildlife urine. Recommended for dogs that enjoy outdoor adventures and hiking.

Understanding the Timing

• Immune Response Time: Most vaccines require 7 to 14 days to become fully effective.
• Incubation Periods: Facilities often require 48—72 hours waiting period after vaccination.

Pro-Tip: Aim to have all boosters completed at least two weeks before your boarding date.

Documentation Required

• Your dog's name and breed
• The name of the vaccine administered
• The date it was given
• The expiration date
• The veterinarian's signature or clinic stamp

Special Considerations

Puppies

Must complete their full initial series before entering communal environments (usually around 16 weeks).

Seniors and Medical Exemptions

A "Titer Test" or formal letter of medical exemption may be accepted.

Vaccine Requirements: All Locations

The same dog vaccines for boarding requirements apply at both our Boston and North Shore locations:

• Rabies — 1-year or 3-year vaccine accepted
• Distemper (DHPP) — 1-year or 3-year vaccine accepted
• Bordetella — Must be current within 6 months

Upload your records at least 1 day before your visit to either location. North Shore pet parents can visit our Lynnfield facility on Market Street.

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