Travelling, Boarding, and Park Visits: Are Your Pet’s Vaccines Up to Date?

As the summer months approach, many of us begin planning holidays, staycations, outdoor adventures, or days out at the park with our pets. But before you book that dog-friendly cottage or drop your cat off at the cattery, it’s essential to ask one important question: are your pet’s vaccinations up to date?

Just like humans, pets need protection from contagious illnesses—especially when they’re mixing with other animals or staying in new environments. Here’s why checking your pet’s vaccine status is more important than ever during the warmer, busier months.

The Risk of Exposure Increases in Summer

Summer brings more social activity for pets. Whether it’s a long walk in the park, a kennel stay while you’re abroad, or attending a doggy day care, your pet will likely come into contact with other animals—some of whom may be carrying contagious diseases.

Common lifestyle-related risks include:

• Kennel cough (infectious tracheobronchitis): Highly contagious, especially in kennels, grooming salons, or dog parks.

• Parvovirus: A potentially fatal disease spread via faeces, especially prevalent in areas with high dog traffic.

• Leptospirosis: Contracted through contaminated water sources like puddles or ponds, which are more tempting in summer.

• Cat flu: Easily transmitted between cats in boarding facilities or multi-cat households.

• Feline leukaemia virus (FeLV)  and Feline immunodeficiency virus  (FIV) in cats who may mix more due to spending more time outdoors in the summer. Particularly if they are unneutered and therefore may mate or fight more. 

When to Check Vaccine Status

You should check your pet’s vaccination record at least once a year, ideally before summer plans are made. Many boarding facilities and pet sitters require proof of up-to-date vaccinations, including annual boosters and specific vaccines like kennel cough.

Ask us about:

• Annual boosters for core vaccines

• Kennel cough vaccine for dogs (often given intranasally or orally)

• Feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) vaccine for outdoor cats

• Rabies vaccine if you’re travelling abroad

It’s also worth checking whether your pet is due for a health check, which often goes hand-in-hand with vaccinations and helps catch early signs of illness.

What Happens If Your Pet’s Vaccines Are Out of Date?

If your pet’s vaccines have lapsed, they may require a restart course—a two-dose schedule given a few weeks apart—to ensure full immunity. This can affect your travel or boarding plans, as most kennels and catteries have strict entry requirements.

To avoid disappointment or last-minute stress, book a vaccination check-up early. Vets can advise on what’s needed based on your pet’s age, lifestyle, and health history.

Final Thoughts

As you prepare for summer holidays, weekend adventures, and park visits, don’t forget your pet’s preventative healthcare. Keeping vaccines up to date is a simple yet powerful way to protect your furry friend—and ensure peace of mind wherever your plans take you.

Need to check your pet’s vaccine status? Contact our team today and get ahead before the summer rush begins.

Save money, and help your pet live a happy and healthy life with Vital Pets Club, by Roundwood Vets.