What Shots Are Required for a Dog to Be in Public & What Proof Is Necessary?

State laws vary on what shots are required for dogs to be out in public, such as at a dog park or in a pet store. Furthermore, pet stores, dog parks, pet salons and even boarding kennels may have different requirements on what vaccinations must be given before the dog can enter the premises. Therefore, it is important that dog owners understand what vaccinations may be necessary for their dog, either as required by the government or for other areas the dog may frequent.

  1. Rabies

    • Rabies vaccinations are required in nearly every state in the United States. It is one of the only consistently required vaccinations, as vaccination needs or requirements for dogs may vary from state to state. Once vaccinated, the dog receives a rabies tag that denotes an ID number and a date. This tag can be offered as proof of vaccination for those who require it, such as a pet salon or dog park. Frequency of the rabies shot will vary from state to state, as some states require it yearly while others may only require it every three years.

    Canine Distemper, Parvovirus

    • Canine distemper is another vaccination that is commonly required by many states. This shot protects the dog against canine distemper. However, canine distemper is often combined with the parvovirus shot, providing double the protection. Both canine distemper and parvovirus can cause serious lifelong health issues for dogs who survive either condition. Frequency for these shots will vary from state to state.

    Dog Lisence

    • A dog license is required in nearly every state. However, it is only given to dog owners who have successfully met the requirements of the individual state's guidelines on what vaccinations are required. For example, in California, the owner must provide proof of rabies and sterilization to receive a license; all other vaccinations are optional. The dog license can often be submitted as proof that the dog is up to date on all state-required shots.

    Core Vaccinations

    • Many veterinarians offer up what are known as core vaccinations. These vaccinations may include vaccinations that are required by the local government, but are generally the vaccinations most recommended by the American Veterinary Medical Association. Core vaccinations include canine distemper, rabies, parvovirus and hepatitis. Some vaccinations may be designated as "core" by veterinarians based on what is needed for the region. For example, dogs living in areas with high incidences of Lyme disease may receive the Lyme vaccination as a core vaccination.

    Noncore Vaccinations

    • Non-core vaccinations are not necessarily required by the local government but may be required or recommended for various reasons. For example, boarding kennels may require vaccination against kennel cough, or a knowledgeable veterinarian may recommend a vaccination against leptospirosis bacteria due to a high number of local incidences. Non-core vaccinations include the leptospirosis vaccination, canine parainfluenza vaccination, bordetella vaccination and the Lyme disease vaccination. To prove these vaccinations have been given, the owner may be required to show veterinary records or provide a contact number of the overseeing veterinarian.