Dog Boarding in San Diego

Dog boarding in San Diego ranges from small kennels to pet resorts with group play yards, private suites and day care. Visit before you book: a good facility will happily show you where dogs sleep, play and eat, and tell you how they keep dogs cool and calm.

Leptospirosis and other vaccines

In December 2020, San Diego County reported an outbreak of canine leptospirosis, a bacterial disease that can spread to people: 34 confirmed and probable cases since October, mostly in Hillcrest and Mission Hills. Boarding at kennels where dogs mix was named a major risk factor, and the kennels linked to cases closed for at least two weeks. Local vets have reported more cases since, so ask your vet about the leptospirosis vaccine before your dog boards; it needs a yearly booster.

Most facilities also ask for rabies (required by California law for dogs from three months old), DHPP and Bordetella (kennel cough), and some ask for canine influenza. Ask which vaccines a facility requires, and how it handles a dog that becomes unwell.

What to ask

• Where do dogs sleep, and is someone on site overnight?
• Is play time in groups or one dog at a time, and how are groups matched?
• How are play areas cleaned, and is there shade and water outside?
• Which vet do they use in an emergency?
• Can you bring your dog's own food, bedding or medication?

Busy dates and fireworks

Summer, the Fourth of July and the winter holidays fill up early, so book well ahead. San Diego County Animal Services notes that July 5 is the busiest day of the year at shelters, so check ID tags and microchip details before your dog's stay, and tell the facility if your dog is scared of fireworks.

Your dog's license

The City of San Diego licenses dogs through San Diego Humane Society, within 30 days of a dog turning four months old and with a valid rabies certificate. Take copies of the license and vaccination records when you drop your dog off.

About these listings

Many listings here were added from public business data and have not been claimed by the business yet. Check hours, prices and availability with the business directly. If you run one of these businesses, you can claim or correct your listing from its page.