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Front desks don't sort through blurry phone photos and old emails — and they will turn pets away over missing vaccine proof. Here's what they check, and everything to hand over so drop-off takes minutes.
Nearly every facility asks for the same three dog vaccines — rabies, DHPP (also written DAPP) and Bordetella — given far enough ahead, with proof from your vet. Here's how three big chains compare (checked October 2026):
| PetSmart PetsHotel / Day Camp | Camp Bow Wow | Dogtopia | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Required | Rabies, DHPP/DAPP, Bordetella | Rabies, distemper/parvo, Bordetella | Rabies, DHPP, Bordetella |
| Bordetella | Every 12 months | Every 12 months (injectable/intranasal) | Current within 12 months |
| Timing | 24+ hours before (10–14 days preferred) | Ask your location | 48+ hours before (7 days preferred) |
| Min. age | 4 months | 4 months | At least 2 DHPP doses |
| Dog flu | Recommended, not required | Some locations | Some locations |
| Proof | Written vet records — no tags or titers | Vet records | Given by a vet |
Cats: boarding usually requires rabies and FVRCP; some places also ask for FeLV or a fecal test.
Proof that counts: records issued by your vet (paper, PDF or photo of the vet's document). Owner-written notes and the rabies tag alone are usually rejected. Lost them? Get them back here.
Sources: PetSmart PetsHotel · Camp Bow Wow · Dogtopia. PetTally isn't affiliated with these companies; policies change — confirm with your location.
PetTally's Pet Passport shows the boarder current vaccines, meds and doses in one scan — a live page you control and can revoke after pickup. No printouts, no photo hunting.
Get PetTally FreeRelated: What shots groomers require · Puppy shot schedule chart · Free printable vaccine record · Switching vets? Transfer guide
Facility requirements vary — always confirm with your boarder. This is an organizational checklist, not veterinary advice; your vet decides which vaccines your pet needs.