Required Dog Vaccinations for Daycare & Boarding in Vermont

By Tails On Trails Pet Resort · Wilmington, VT

When you choose a dog daycare or boarding facility, your dog’s health and safety come first. One of the most important ways to protect your pup — and every dog in our care — is by maintaining up-to-date vaccinations.

At Tails On Trails Pet Resort, we follow strict, veterinary-backed guidelines to ensure a clean, safe, and healthy environment for your dog to play, relax, and thrive. Whether you’re planning a day of daycare, a grooming appointment, or an overnight stay during ski season, this guide explains exactly which vaccinations your dog needs — and why they matter.

1. Rabies – Required by Vermont Law

Rabies is a core vaccine and a legal requirement in the state of Vermont.It protects dogs (and people) from one of the most dangerous viral infections transmitted by wildlife.

What you need:✔️ Proof of a current rabies vaccination (1-year or 3-year)

Why it matters:Rabies is fatal if untreated, so this vaccination is essential for all dogs entering group environments.

2. Distemper / Parvo (DHPP) – Required for All Dogs

The DHPP vaccine protects your dog against several dangerous viruses:

• Distemper

• Hepatitis (Adenovirus)

• Parvovirus

• Parainfluenza

These diseases spread through contact, shared play spaces, bowls, toys, and even human hands — making this vaccine critical for daycare and boarding.

What you need:✔️ A current DHPP (or DAPP) vaccine✔️ Boosters as recommended by your veterinarian

Why it matters:These illnesses are highly contagious and often serious. DHPP protects your pup and the entire playgroup.

3. Bordetella (Kennel Cough) – Required for Daycare & Boarding

Bordetella bronchiseptica, commonly known as kennel cough, is one of the fastest-spreading dog infections — especially in busy environments like:

• dog daycares

• boarding facilities

• grooming salons

• dog parks

• training classes

What you need:✔️ A Bordetella vaccine every 6–12 months (depending on your vet’s recommendation)

Why it matters:Because kennel cough spreads quickly through droplets, having every dog protected helps prevent outbreaks and keeps the entire facility healthy.

4. Strongly Recommended: Canine Influenza (CIV)

While not always required, the canine influenza vaccine is increasingly recommended — especially in states like Vermont that receive heavy tourist traffic during ski season.

What you need:✔️ CIV H3N2 and H3N8 (often given as a combo)✔️ Two-shot series for first-timers, then yearly boosters

Why it matters:Canine flu is highly contagious and can spread through the air, surfaces, and shared spaces.

Tails On Trails monitors regional veterinary updates closely and may require CIV during periods of increased risk.

5. Flea & Tick Prevention – Required for Entry

Vermont’s wooded, rural landscape makes flea and tick prevention essential.

What you need:✔️ Proof that your dog is on a veterinarian-approved flea/tick preventative✔️ Application at least 48 hours before your dog’s visit

Why it matters:Ticks in Vermont can carry Lyme disease, Anaplasmosis, Ehrlichia, and other infections. Prevention protects your dog — and the cleanliness of our resort.

6. Puppies: Special Requirements

Puppies must complete specific vaccinations before attending daycare or boarding.

Puppies must have:✔️ At least 2 rounds of DHPP✔️ Bordetella (if approved by your vet)✔️ Rabies once old enough (usually at 12–16 weeks)

Why it matters:Young puppies are more vulnerable to illness. Keeping them protected ensures a safe socialization experience.

Why Vaccination Requirements Matter

Beyond compliance, vaccinations give every dog the freedom to enjoy:

• off-leash open play

• safe socialization

• healthy group interactions

• clean rest areas

• stress-free overnight boarding

At Tails On Trails, our priority is to maintain a luxury, health-focused environment where every dog can enjoy their stay to the fullest.

Our policies are designed to protect what matters most:your dog’s wellbeing, happiness, and safety.

Final Thoughts

Vaccinations are more than a requirement — they’re a commitment to responsible pet care and community safety. We proudly uphold the highest health standards so that your dog can enjoy a safe, joyful, enriching experience with us year-round.

If you have questions about vaccination timing, proof of records, or preparing your pup for their first visit, our team is always here to help.

Welcome to Tails On Trails Pet Resort — where wellness meets luxury, and every dog is treated like family.