What Washington boarding facilities require
Rabies vaccination (required by state law)
Washington State law requires all dogs, cats, and domestic ferrets to have a current rabies vaccination under WAC 246-100-197 (accessed Aug 29, 2026). No licensed Washington boarding facility will accept a pet without proof of a current rabies vaccination. You need the actual written certificate issued by your veterinarian — not just a reminder text or an app notification.
DHPP / DAPP (dogs)
Proof of current canine distemper combination vaccine (DHPP or DAPP, covering distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, and parvovirus) is standard at virtually every Washington boarding facility. This vaccine is typically given every 1–3 years depending on your vet's protocol and the product used. Many facilities require it to be current — meaning not expired per the manufacturer's recommended interval.
Bordetella / kennel cough (dogs)
Bordetella bronchiseptica is the leading cause of kennel cough, and it spreads rapidly in group boarding environments. Bordetella vaccination is the most commonly required non-core vaccine at Washington kennels. Many facilities require it every 6 months, not just annually, and some require it to have been administered at least 48–72 hours before check-in so the immune response has time to develop.
FVRCP (cats)
For cats, most Washington boarding facilities require proof of current FVRCP vaccination (feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and panleukopenia). Some cat-only facilities also require feline leukemia (FeLV) vaccination — confirm when you book.
Leptospirosis (dogs — Pacific NW consideration)
Washington's wet climate and abundant wildlife make Leptospirosis a meaningful risk, particularly west of the Cascades. Leptospira bacteria are shed in the urine of infected wildlife — raccoons, deer, and rodents — which are common throughout the Puget Sound region. Some Washington boarding facilities, especially those with outdoor runs or forested play areas, require or strongly recommend current Leptospirosis vaccination.
Washington-specific legal context: abandoned animals in boarding
Washington's RCW 16.54.010 (accessed Aug 29, 2026) establishes the legal framework for animals left in boarding facilities. Under this statute, if a boarded animal has not been reclaimed within 15 days of the date agreed upon for pickup — and the owner cannot be reached after reasonable effort — the boarding facility may treat the animal as abandoned. The facility must make documented attempts to contact the owner before proceeding. This is why boarding facilities consistently ask for a primary contact number, a secondary emergency contact, and your veterinarian's contact information at intake.
Documents to bring on drop-off day
- Current rabies vaccination certificate showing the vaccination date, product used, and expiration date
- DHPP/DAPP vaccination record with dates (dogs)
- Bordetella certificate with administration date within the facility's required window
- FVRCP vaccination record (cats)
- Leptospirosis vaccination record if your facility requires it (dogs)
- Medication list and administration instructions if your pet takes any medications
- Your veterinarian's name, clinic, and phone number
- Emergency contact — someone who can authorize care decisions if you're unreachable
Washington-specific boarding considerations
- Seattle-area holiday demand: The Puget Sound metro is a major tech hub, and holiday travel demand — particularly during the Thanksgiving and winter holiday periods — fills Washington kennels months in advance. If you're booking in King, Pierce, or Snohomish County, plan at least 6–8 weeks ahead for major holidays.
- Outdoor and adventure boarding: Washington's Pacific NW culture has driven growth in adventure-style kennels offering hiking, swimming, and outdoor play. These facilities often have more extensive vaccination requirements — particularly Leptospirosis and sometimes Lyme — given the exposure to natural environments and wildlife.
- Giardia risk: Washington has naturally occurring Giardia in its waterways and soil. Dogs who spend time in outdoor runs at boarding facilities can be exposed. Some Washington kennels with outdoor yards request a recent fecal parasite screening — ask about this when you book.
Your boarding preparation checklist
Last verified: August 29, 2026. Boarding requirements vary by facility — always confirm directly with the kennel when you book. This guide covers common Washington requirements; your facility may have additional policies.