Guide · Boarding
What kennels and catteries ask for before your pet stays
Boarding refusals are almost always administrative: a booster given too recently, a missing kennel cough vaccine, or a card nobody can find. Here is the checklist to run before you book.
Last reviewed: 1 September 2026
In short
Typical requirements
| Facility | Usually required | Common timing rule |
|---|---|---|
| Boarding kennels (dogs) | Core vaccine (DHP + leptospirosis) and kennel cough | At least 7–14 days before arrival |
| Catteries | Core cat vaccine (cat flu + enteritis), often FeLV | At least 7–14 days before arrival |
| Daycare | Core vaccine and kennel cough | Checked at sign-up and annually |
| Groomers | Core vaccine; kennel cough sometimes | Checked at sign-up |
| Dog walkers | Core vaccine; policy varies | Checked at sign-up |
Before you book: the five-minute check
- Find the vaccination card and read the next-due date, not just the last one
- Check whether kennel cough is on the card at all
- Compare the due date with your travel dates, allowing the 7–14 day rule
- Ask the facility whether a photo or scan is acceptable proof
- Ask about flea and worming treatment requirements — many kennels ask for these too
- Book the vet appointment before you confirm the boarding dates
What to bring at drop-off
- Vaccination card or practice printout
- Your vet's name, address and out-of-hours number
- Any medication in its original labelled packaging, with dose and frequency written down
- Microchip number and insurance details
- Feeding routine and any allergies
That is precisely the list Pawfile's emergency summary produces on one screen, so you can hand it over or share it instead of writing it out again each time.
This is general information, not veterinary advice. Vaccination protocols vary by country, brand of vaccine and your pet's individual risk. Always follow the schedule your own vet recommends. Pawfile is an admin tool for keeping those records and reminders organised — it does not diagnose or treat.
Common questions
- What vaccinations do kennels require in the UK?
- Most boarding kennels require an up-to-date core dog vaccination (distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus and leptospirosis) and, very commonly, kennel cough. Catteries usually require the core cat vaccination covering cat flu and enteritis, and often feline leukaemia. Policies vary, so confirm with the facility.
- How far in advance do vaccinations need to be given?
- Many facilities require vaccination at least 7 to 14 days before arrival so immunity has developed. Kennel cough in particular often has a stated minimum period, so book the vet well before the boarding date.
- Will a photo of the vaccination card be accepted?
- Often yes for booking, but plenty of kennels still want to see the physical card or a practice printout at drop-off. Ask when you book rather than on the morning you leave.
- What if my pet can't have a vaccination for medical reasons?
- Ask your vet for a written note explaining the exemption and speak to the facility before booking. Some accept a titre test or a vet letter; others cannot, for the safety of the other animals in their care.
- Do dog walkers and groomers ask for proof too?
- Many do, usually at sign-up and then each year. Daycare and training classes commonly ask as well, and kennel cough is frequently on their list.
Never miss a booster again
Store your pet's vaccination card, set renewal reminders and keep every vet document in one place. Free for your first pet.