Proof of vaccination is the owner's responsibility to provide at or before the scheduled date of boarding. Highland Kennel reserves the right to refuse any guest in violation of these standards or any dog who appears to be exhibiting symptoms of poor health. Please plan accordingly. Veterinary records are required and can be provided to us in any of the following ways:

1. Bring us a legible copy
2. Have the vet fax us a copy to: (732) 534-4994(fax)
3. E-mail us a copy
4. We can call your vet to verify, only available during your vet's open hours

Rabies — Dogs and Cats
NJ state law requires this shot — for both dogs and cats.

The current way to diagnose Rabies in animals is to submit the brain to microscopic examination. There is no treatment. Once the disease develops in humans, death is certain. There have been a couple of reported cases of dogs surviving the infection but they are very rare. It's easy to see why this shot is important.

Disemper/Parvo Combo (DHP, DHLP, etc.) — Dogs Only
We require this shot (dogs only).

The Distemper virus can affect many systems of the body. The most common signs are nasal and eye discharge, coughing, diarrhea, vomiting and seizures. Dogs of any age can be affected, however, those most susceptible are puppies under six months of age. Canine Parvovirus disease is currently the most common infectious disorder of dogs in the United States. 'Parvo is a highly contagious disease characterized by diarrhea that is often bloody.

Bordetella — Dogs Only
Commonly referred to as canine or kennel cough — the vaccination is only partially effective, thus we DO NOT require the vaccination.

The vaccination may take up to four days to protect your dog and may leave them contagious for six+ days. We will NOT take a dog with a Bordetella vaccination given fewer than ten days prior to staying with us, so please plan accordingly. We are an indoor/outdoor kennel. Fresh air is a large help in prevention. Bordetella occurs more often in indoor-only facilities with inadequate ventilation systems.

Feline Distemper — Cats Only
We require this shot (cats only).

For cats, Distemper and Rabies are the two required shots. The symptoms of panleukopenia (Feline Leukemia) can be similar to those seen in dogs with parvo or Canine Distemper (vomiting, diarrhea and seizures), which is why the disease is sometimes called “Feline Distemper.” Panleukopenia in young, unvaccinated kittens is usually fatal. The Panleukopenia virus is widespread in nature, so virtually all cats are exposed to it within their first year of life.

For Your Puppies' Protection
We will NOT take a dog until he/she has completed their first full round of “permanent” shots. This usually occurs at around 5–6 months of age. The next scheduled vaccination would be annual (one year later).

This is NOT intended to be a substitute for veterinary care or advice. If you have any questions, please refer to the full articles in the links above and speak with your veterinarian. Dogs are man's best friends; it's important to keep them healthy.