What Vaccination Proof Should a Boarding Facility Require Before a Pet's Stay?

Requiring proof of vaccination protects every animal in your care. Here is what to ask for and how to handle it smoothly.

Julien Jimenez

September 3, 2026 · 3 min read

Documentation, not a verbal claim

Ask for a record that shows the vaccine and the date it was given, from the vet or on official paperwork. An owner saying the dog is current is not the same as proof.

The date lets you confirm the vaccine is valid for the whole stay.

Decide your required vaccines

Requirements vary by location and facility. Decide which vaccines you require for boarding and state them plainly before a reservation is confirmed.

Confirm what applies in your area rather than copying another region's list.

Collect it at booking

Gathering proof when the reservation is made, not at drop-off, avoids turning a family away with a car full of luggage and a pet ready to stay.

It also gives the owner time to update a lapsed record.

Keep it on file with the dates

Store each record with the date given and the next due date so a returning guest's status is clear next time without asking again.

That record protects the health of every animal under your roof.

Key takeaways

Require documented proof showing the vaccine and date
Decide which vaccines your facility requires for your area
Collect proof at booking, not at drop-off
Store records with dates so returning guests are easy to verify

Written by

Julien Jimenez

Julien Jimenez is an independent software builder based in Paris. He designs, ships, and operates focused SaaS products for small businesses and independent professionals. Read the full author page.