Puppy owners often ask the day they can first board. The kennel's rule is about age and records, and the timing of each shot belongs to the vet.
The kennel's rule
Dogs and cats must be 16 weeks old before the first day of the stay and have received all the recommended vaccinations for their age. For dogs that means the required set: rabies, distemper/parvo and Bordetella. Canine influenza is recommended but not required. Records must be current through the end of the stay. The puppy age guide and the puppy boarding page cover the rest.
How the guidelines frame the series
The American Animal Hospital Association's 2022 canine guidelines describe the distemper/adenovirus/parvovirus series as at least three doses of a combination vaccine between 6 and 16 weeks of age, spaced 2 to 4 weeks apart, with a booster about a year after the series and later boosters at longer intervals. The AVMA's canine parvovirus page explains why: antibodies a puppy gets from its mother's milk can wear off before its own immune system is ready, and can interfere with its response to a vaccine, so a series of doses closes the gap. For most puppies the final dose in the series is given at 16 weeks of age or older. The AVMA adds that until the series is complete, owners should use caution about places where dogs gather, such as pet shops, parks, classes, day cares and kennels.
Rabies and the law
California Health and Safety Code section 121690 calls for rabies vaccination of dogs by a licensed veterinarian from 3 months of age, and for licensing from 4 months. A rabies certificate from your vet is the record the kennel needs.
A planning example
A puppy that turns 16 weeks old on a Saturday can start a stay the next day if all age-appropriate vaccines are on record and, if you choose the recommended canine influenza vaccine, the first dose is in place. Because the flu vaccine needs a booster 3 to 4 weeks after the first, ask your vet early how the shots will fit together. The readiness checker helps. Please call 707-678-6600 to confirm for your pet.