Owners often see several different names on a vaccine record: DHPP, DAPP, DA2PP or simply distemper/parvo. This page sorts out the names and says what the kennel needs to see.
What the requirement says
The kennel's vaccination page lists distemper and parvo as one of the three required dog vaccines. It explains that the two are both viral diseases, that they are very different illnesses, and that immunity is often given in the same combination shot along with other vaccines. It suggests talking about your dog's needs with your veterinarian.
In practice, the record needs to show a distemper/parvo vaccination that is current on your pick-up day.
Reading the letters on your record
The letters usually stand for distemper, adenovirus (hepatitis), parvovirus and parainfluenza, though the exact mix varies by product. The American Animal Hospital Association's canine guidelines list distemper, adenovirus type 2 and parvovirus type 2 among the core vaccines, meaning vaccines they recommend for all dogs unless there is a medical reason not to.
If your record lists the shot under a brand name or an abbreviation you do not recognize, a quick call to your veterinarian's office will tell you what it covers.
- DHPP, DAPP, DA2PP: combination shots that include distemper and parvo.
- Leptospirosis is sometimes added to the same shot. It is recommended at Happy Paws, not required.
- Ask your vet's office to print the full record, not only a tag or receipt.
Puppies and the 16-week rule
Dogs and cats must be 16 weeks old before the first day of a stay and must have received all the recommended vaccinations for their age. AAHA's guidelines describe a puppy series of combination doses spread across the first 16 weeks, with a booster after that. The spacing and timing for your puppy is your veterinarian's call. The puppy vaccine schedule page explains how that fits with boarding.
Sending the record
Upload it to your ProPetware account when you send a booking request, email it to the kennel, or bring a copy to the first check-in. Booking is by request, and the kennel confirms every reservation. The readiness checker lets you tick off each vaccine before you submit.