Drop-off 7:30-11:30 and 2-5, every day6677 Midway Road, DixonAccount login707-678-6600
Happy Paws Kennels
  • 4 min read

Rabies exemptions in California

California law allows a veterinarian to document a medical exemption from the dog rabies vaccination for an individual dog. Happy Paws Kennels needs proof of a current rabies vaccination for every dog, so call before booking if your dog has an exemption.

A papillon puppy asleep on white bedding

A question about boarding without vaccinations is often a real medical question. Here is the law, the kennel's rule and what to do.

What the law says

California Health and Safety Code section 121690 requires dog owners to have their dog vaccinated against rabies by a licensed veterinarian once the dog is three months old, at intervals set by the state. The same section has an exemption that a veterinarian can document, for example when the vaccine would endanger an individual dog's health. The exemption is decided by your veterinarian, for your dog, and it is documented in writing.

Most exemptions are time-limited or tied to a condition, so ask your veterinarian to state the reason and the dates in the letter. A clear letter helps you in every setting, from the county licensing office to a boarding kennel.

What the kennel's page says

The kennel's vaccination page says California law requires dogs to be vaccinated for rabies with a few special exceptions, and that the kennel is not able to accept a dog without proof of an up-to-date rabies vaccination. So a written exemption does not fit the kennel's stated requirement. The kennel also asks that cats have a current rabies record.

What to do if your dog has an exemption

Call 707-678-6600 before you plan a trip. Explain the situation and ask the staff how they handle it, so you know before you book anything. Your veterinarian can write a letter, and a phone call costs nothing. Other vaccines on the list are separate questions; each is current or not on its own record.

Calling early matters because other arrangements, such as a sitter at home, may suit a dog in this situation better than a group setting. The boarding and in-home sitter comparison sets out the differences.

Other ways to plan

Ask your veterinarian whether a different schedule or product is possible, and ask the kennel about dates. The page about titer tests explains why antibody results are a different thing from a vaccination record. The full requirements are on one page, and the rabies page covers the basics.

Sources (checked October 19, 2026)

Before your first stay

Visit or call

6677 Midway Road, Dixon, CA 95620

707-678-6600

Drop-off and pick-up, every day7:30 to 11:30 AM and 2:00 to 5:00 PM
Tours, every day (no appointment)9:00 to 11:00 AM and 2:00 to 4:00 PM

Book a stay

Plan your stay

Is my pet ready?

Who is staying?
Dog vaccines (three required, one recommended)
Cat vaccines (required)

Tick each vaccine your pet has had. Add the date it runs out to check it against your pick-up day.

This checks our boarding requirements, not your pet's health. Your veterinarian decides which vaccines your pet should have and when. Upload records to your ProPetware account, email them, or bring a copy at check-in.

Answers

Questions people ask

Still have a question? Call 707-678-6600 (every day 7:30-11:30 AM and 2-5 PM) or see the boarding FAQ.

Can a vet exempt my dog from the rabies vaccine in California?

The statute allows a veterinarian to document a medical exemption. That decision is between you and your vet.

Can my dog board with a rabies exemption?

The kennel needs proof of a current rabies vaccination for every dog. Please call 707-678-6600 to talk it through.

Does this apply to cats?

The kennel needs a current rabies record for every cat.

Are other vaccines required?

Yes, distemper/parvo and Bordetella for dogs. Canine influenza is recommended.

Happy Paws Kennels

Ask about your dates

Send your dates and pets and the kennel will get back to you. Holiday stays need a 50% deposit 30 days before drop-off, so ask early.

Book a stayCall 707-678-6600

6677 Midway Road
Dixon, CA 95620
707-678-6600
Drop-off and pick-up, every day7:30 to 11:30 AM and 2:00 to 5:00 PM
Tours, every day (no appointment)9:00 to 11:00 AM and 2:00 to 4:00 PM

Check-out is by 11:30 AM. An afternoon pick-up is charged half of the nightly rate.

Directions (opens Google Maps)

Your dates and pets

Tell us when you are coming and we will let you know if the dates work. The kennel confirms every reservation.

Pick-up time
Kennel class

This sends a request, not a booking. To book online, use your ProPetware account; or call 707-678-6600.

4.9 stars, 133 Google reviews · caring for pets in Dixon since 1971 · 707-678-6600