The short version: bring current proof of Rabies, DHPP, Bordetella, and Canine Influenza; confirm your dog is spayed or neutered if they’re over about 6 months; and schedule the assessment day before you try to book a regular slot. Below is the full checklist, what each requirement actually means, and what to bring on daycare days.
Vaccines daycares require
Because dogs spend the day in close-contact play groups, daycares typically ask for more vaccine coverage than a boarding kennel does. Get these done at least a week or two before the assessment day — Bordetella and Canine Influenza both need time to take effect before they’re considered valid.
| Vaccine | Why daycares require it | Typically valid |
|---|---|---|
| Rabies | Legally required in most areas; non-negotiable at any facility. | 1–3 years |
| DHPP | Distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, parainfluenza — the core combination. | 1–3 years |
| Bordetella | Kennel cough spreads fast in play groups; almost universally required. | 6–12 months |
| Canine Influenza | Commonly required for daycare specifically because of the close-contact environment. | ~1 year |
| Spay / neuter | Most daycares require it for dogs over roughly 6–7 months to reduce tension in group play. | Permanent |
| Temperament assessment | A trial day where staff evaluate how your dog handles the group before regular booking opens. | One-time (some facilities re-assess) |
Bring the dated certificate, not just “she’s up to date.” Daycares keep copies on file, and an expiry that lapses mid-month can mean a turned-away dog on a workday.
The drop-off checklist
What the facility needs from you each time:
- Vaccine records with dates — Rabies, DHPP, Bordetella, and Canine Influenza at minimum.
- Spay / neuter confirmation — a vet letter or record if your dog is past the age threshold.
- Feeding plan — food, exact portions, and the mealtime schedule if they’re staying through lunch.
- Medications — names, doses, timing, and what they’re for, in the original container.
- Vet contact — clinic name, phone, and your dog’s file number.
- Emergency contact — someone reachable who can authorize care if you’re unreachable.
- Behavior notes — how your dog is with other dogs, any triggers, and known allergies.
Skip the folder of screenshots
PetPacket turns this checklist into one shareable packet — vaccines, feeding, meds, and contacts on a single page you can text, AirDrop, or print before drop-off.
What to bring on daycare days
Daycare is daytime-only, so there’s no overnight bag — but a few things still need to come with your dog:
- Food, pre-portioned — only if they’re staying through a mealtime; bagged per meal beats a loose estimate.
- Medication, labeled — in the original container with the written schedule.
- Leash & well-fitted collar or harness with an ID tag.
- Nothing irreplaceable — toys and comfort items go missing in group play; leave the favorites at home.
Questions worth asking the daycare
- How are dogs grouped? By size, energy level, or temperament — or all mixed together?
- What does the assessment day look like? How long, what are they watching for, and what happens if a dog doesn’t pass?
- What is the spay/neuter policy? Age threshold, exceptions, and whether a vet letter changes anything.
- Can I send a care packet ahead? Most facilities appreciate having feeding, meds, and contacts before the first visit.
Frequently asked
What vaccines does my dog need for daycare?
Most daycares require proof of Rabies, DHPP (distemper/parvo), and Bordetella (kennel cough). Many also require Canine Influenza because dogs are in close contact during play groups. Confirm requirements with your specific facility before booking.
Does my dog need to be neutered for daycare?
Most daycares require spay/neuter for dogs over roughly 6–7 months. The rule exists because intact dogs in group play can trigger tension or mounting behavior. Check your facility’s policy — some make exceptions for younger puppies or dogs with a vet letter.
What is a daycare temperament test?
A temperament test (also called an assessment day or trial day) is a session where staff introduce your dog to the group environment and observe how they handle other dogs, new spaces, and activity levels. Most daycares require your dog to pass before regular booking opens up.
Can puppies go to daycare?
Some daycares run dedicated puppy programs once a dog’s core vaccine series is complete, typically around 16 weeks. Many set a minimum age or weight. Call ahead — puppy group rules vary more than adult group rules.
