What Are the Requirements for Attending Dog Daycare in California?

Pet parents who plan to enroll their four-legged companion in a California daycare facility should be aware of several important rules. These requirements include legal and medical considerations that must be addressed before admission.

At Veterinary Hospital Animal Clinic International in Los Angeles, we strictly follow California health and safety standards to ensure a safe environment for every pet.

Legal Requirements

To enroll your pet in daycare, the owner must provide proof of a valid pet license, as required by local California regulations. A copy of the license should be brought during registration. This confirms legal ownership and compliance with municipal requirements.

Please note that daycare facilities generally accept only dogs and cats that are at least 12 weeks old, as this is the age when the initial vaccination series is typically completed.

General Medical Requirements

In California, specific health standards apply to pets participating in group care settings. To prevent the spread of infectious diseases, dogs must be up to date on core and recommended vaccinations, including:

• DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis/Adenovirus, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza)
• Leptospirosis
• Rabies

For cats, required vaccinations include:

• FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia)
• Rabies

Additionally, all pets must be on active parasite prevention covering:

• Fleas
• Ticks
• Intestinal parasites

Documentation confirming vaccination status and parasite prevention is required prior to attendance.

Health Screening Policy

California daycare facilities do not admit pets showing signs of contagious illness.

If visible symptoms are observed during check-in, our veterinary team may recommend diagnostic testing (including PCR testing if indicated) and a comprehensive medical evaluation at Animal Clinic International Veterinary Hospital.

If treatment is required, we can provide outpatient or inpatient care. Once your pet has fully recovered and is medically cleared, we will be happy to welcome them back to our daycare program in Los Angeles.

Following these straightforward requirements ensures a smooth registration process and, most importantly, protects the health of all pets in our care.

Meeting medical and legal standards is not only about compliance — it is a sign of responsible pet ownership and respect for the safety of our community.