highworth-pet-care

Vaccination Requirements for Home Boarding in England (2026 Guide)

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 07:05:49 GMT

Summary of Boarding Requirements

If you want your dog to enjoy a home away from home, with a licensed Home Boarder, you will need to make sure your dog is fully vaccinated as described.

Ensuring dogs are properly vaccinated not only protects the individual dog but also helps maintain a healthy environment for all the dogs.

By keeping your dog's boosters up to date, you are contributing to a safer community for all pets in Swindon and Highworth.

Remember to check your records when you are first enquiring about Home Boarding. If there are any lapses or problems, you then have time to put things right and you can avoid a lot of last-minute stress.

Key Takeaways:

Core Vaccines: Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, and Leptospirosis are non-negotiable.
Check Dates: Most vaccines need to be administered at least 14 days before the boarding start date.
Original Records: Licensed boarders must see the physical vaccination card or a certified digital record from your vet.
5-Star Standards: These rules are part of the strict licensing that ensures high-quality care at Highworth Pet Care.
Plan Ahead: Talk to your vet early, especially regarding the Kennel Cough vaccine, which is often a separate requirement.

If you have any reservations about vaccination, please do speak to your Vet who is best qualified to explain in more detail. They will be only too happy to oblige.

Vets usually send out reminders when your vaccination is due, and we have a similar check-in service for our clients. This enables us to know when you book whether you are up-to-date.

At Highworth Pet Care, we are committed to providing an honest, experienced, and reliable service. Whether you need Cat Care or Small Animal Care , we treat every pet with the love and respect they deserve. If you have any further questions about our boarding protocols or want to book a free assessment, please reach out to us today. Your pet's health and happiness are our greatest rewards.

Licensed Home boarding Facilities in England are required to ensure that all Boarding & Resident Dogs are fully vaccinated against the core diseases:

Canine Parvovirus
Canine Distemper
Infectious Canine Hepatitis (Adenovirus)
Leptospirosis

Vaccinations against other diseases such as Kennel Cough or Canine Parainfluenza Virus MAY be required.

Vaccines must be licensed for use in the UK.

Homeopathic vaccination is not accepted.

What vaccinations does my dog need for home boarding in England?

Bordetella Bronchiseptica (Kennel Cough) :

This is required for dogs boarding in kennels and many Home Boarding settings where multiple dogs share close confinement. It is extremely contagious and can be severe for the young, old and vulnerable.

Vaccination doesn’t necessarily prevent Kennel Cough, but it can reduce severity and limit the spread of disease in high-risk communities.

Councils differ in their requirements, so KC is mandatory in some areas.

In Swindon, some businesses require it, and others don’t. It is up to the business owner to decide for themselves and have a policy in place.

Because we only board a few dogs at a time, we don’t currently require Kennel Cough vaccination at Highworth Pet Care.

IMPORTANT

If dogs receive the nasal version of this vaccine, it is live virus and they will shed it for up to 6 weeks and can infect other dogs.

For this reason, we are unable to accept dogs for at least 3 weeks minimum after administration. We prefer 6 weeks.

There is now another type of Kennel Cough vaccine called Respira Bb that is injected and doesn’t shed as it is inactivated virus. Not all vets stock it, and it may cost more than the traditional Nasal Vaccine but may be an option for some.

We can board dogs straight away after Respira BB.

Leptospirosis vaccination is somewhat controversial and is commonly referred to as L2 or L4.

Some people believe Leptospirosis is a vaccine associated with increased side effects and some people would rather their dogs not have It.

It has been a core vaccine for many years now and we are unable to accept dogs without it.

L2 is now no longer widely available as most Vets have transitioned over to L4 which covers more strands of the disease.

The 1st time your dog receives L4, they will need to have a 2nd jab 1 month later and your dog is not fully vaccinated until 2 weeks after the 2nd Jab. Thereafter it will be a single jab each year.

Vaccination Records:

Dog Owners MUST provide up-to-date vaccination records to secure boarding. This documentation helps ensure compliance with health standards and is mandatory for all Licensed Home Boarders.

Boosters:

Regular boosters are considered necessary to maintain immunity. If Boosters aren’t given as required, you may need to restart the course.

I’m sorry, but there are no circumstances in which Licensed Home Boarders can accept unvaccinated dogs.

DHP:

DHP is now recommended to be given every 3 years instead of annually.

Leptospirosis Is given every year since it doesn’t last very long.

Some people prefer not to vaccinate routinely, and have blood analysed instead to see if the dog still has protection.

We are willing to accept Titre Testing BUT your Vet must provide proof of this and specify that it will last for the duration of boarding. This is something many Vets don’t like doing as it is almost impossible to guarantee.

Titre Testing can be an expensive option, and you have 2 options:

The first includes your vet taking a blood specimen and sending it away. This can be very expensive.
The 2nd is to find a vet offering Vaccicheck which is an antibody test done in house and so much cheaper.

You CAN’T titre test for Leptospirosis and so this vaccine MUST be given every 12 months.

Non Core Vaccinations

Titre Testing

Star Ratings for Licensed Home Boarders in England

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 06:47:52 GMT

Star Ratings for Licensed Home Boarders in England

Choosing Quality Care in Highworth

At Highworth Pet Care, we have been serving the Highworth and Swindon community since 2011. Our journey has always been about providing a home-from-home experience that doesn't compromise on safety or professional standards. Being a 5-star licensed home boarder means we go above and beyond the basic requirements to ensure every dog that stays with us is treated like one of our own. We understand that your pet is a member of your family, and we take that responsibility to heart.

Our commitment to excellence isn't just about the stars; it's about the daily care we provide. From ensuring your dog gets their favourite treats to providing a quiet space for a nap after a long walk, every detail is managed with love and expertise. If you're looking for experienced, reliable, and highly-rated care, we invite you to Contact Us to discuss your pet's needs and arrange a free assessment. We are here to make your life easier and your pet's life happier.

Summary of Key Takeaways

Choosing a licensed boarder is the most important decision you can make for your pet's welfare while you are away. The star rating system provides a clear, objective measure of quality, safety, and compliance. To ensure the best experience for your dog, remember these key points:

A 5-star rating indicates both high welfare standards and a low-risk management style.
Licensed boarders are legally required to be inspected and insured.
Higher standards include lower dog-to-staff ratios and professional qualifications.
Always verify a license number with the local authority before booking.
Professional boarding provides peace of mind that unlicensed care simply cannot offer.

By understanding what these ratings mean, you can make an informed choice that prioritises your dog’s health, safety, and happiness. Whether it is for a long holiday or a short break, your pet deserves the 5-star treatment

The Importance of the Local Authority Inspection

The local authority inspection is the backbone of the star rating system. Inspectors are trained professionals who know exactly what to look for. They don't just look at the dogs; they look at the paperwork. They check for:

Up-to-date vaccination records for every dog on the premises.
Detailed cleaning and disinfection schedules to prevent disease.
Documented procedures for emergencies, such as a fire or a lost dog.
Evidence of regular training and Continuing Professional Development each year.
Specific care plans tailored to each dog’s breed, age, and temperament.

This level of scrutiny ensures that the high-quality care promised in marketing materials is actually delivered. It separates the professional businesses from the casual hobbyists.

If you ever have doubts about a provider, you can always check by speaking with the licensing team at Swindon Borough Council. There is a list of licensed businesses on the council website, but it is not “complete” as some businesses choose not to be listed publicly. All licensed businesses have to display their licence in a forward-facing position to the public. Mine is in the hallway as you enter the house. If someone can’t show you their licence, they almost certainly don’t have one.

Checking Your Boarder's Credentials

When you are looking for a Home Boarder, don't be afraid to ask questions. A professional, 5-star-rated business will be more than happy to show you their credentials. In fact, we love talking about our standards because we have worked hard to achieve them! You should look for the license number and the name of the issuing local authority, which must, by law, be displayed on the business website and on the premises.

Before you book, consider these five checks:

• Verify the license number with the local council.

• Check that the boarder has valid public liability insurance.

• Ask about their qualifications and canine first aid certification.

• Request a 'meet and greet' to see the environment for yourself.

• Read recent reviews from other pet owners to ensure consistency

When we talk about the 'Higher' standards, we are looking at the extra steps a boarder takes to ensure a premium experience for the dogs. To obtain a 4 or 5-star rating, a business must meet at least 50% of the optional higher standards and 100% of the required higher standards. These often include:

Maintaining a low ratio of dogs to staff
Ensuring the designated licence holder either has a level 2 or 3 Ofqual qualification or can demonstrate they have the relevant knowledge & experience.
Providing a clear and documented exercise and enrichment plan for every dog.
Having a separate, designated isolation area for sick animals.
Operating with a high level of administrative accuracy and detailed records.

How does a boarder achieve a 5-star rating?

Achieving 5 stars is the gold standard in the industry. It requires a combination of high welfare standards and a low-risk rating from the local authority. The risk rating is based on how well the business has complied with regulations in the past and the robustness of its current management systems. A 5-star rating typically means the boarder has met the higher standards and has a track record of excellent performance over at least three years.

For a boarder, this means constant vigilance. Every walk must be logged, every meal must be tracked, and every interaction must be monitored to ensure it meets the individual needs of the dog. At Highworth Pet Care, we take these responsibilities seriously because we believe your pets deserve the best. Whether they are with us for a week or just for Relief Visits , their welfare is our absolute priority. The inspection process covers physical safety, such as ensuring all fences are secure and there are no toxic plants in the garden, as well as mental health, ensuring dogs are not stressed by the presence of other animals.

Star ratings were introduced in 2018 when the Home Boarding guidance was

and regulations were updated. Prior to 2018, all businesses were inspected annually & given a 1-year licence.

Now businesses are given a licence for up to 3 years if they meet

the higher standards required, and have a history of compliance

with the licensing authority.

Star ratings are based on this combination of risk and compliance.

Key takeaway information for Owners:

1-2 Stars (Lower Rating) indicates minimum standards are met with

minor failings or higher risk, leading to a 1-year licence

3-5 Stars (Higher Rating) indicates that higher welfare standards are met

or exceeded, with low risk, earning a 2 or 3-year licence.

At Highworth Pet Care , as a business with almost 15 years of compliance, we have been awarded a 5-star, 3-year licence, which runs from March 2025 to

March 2028

What are the star ratings for licensed dog home boarders?

If you have ever looked into Dog Home Boarding for your four-legged friend, you have likely noticed that different providers carry different star ratings. In England, these ratings are not just for show; they are a legal requirement under the Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England) Regulations 2018. This legislation was introduced to standardise the way pet care businesses are assessed, ensuring that every dog stays in a safe, healthy, and happy environment.

The star rating system provides a transparent way for pet owners to gauge the quality of care their dogs will receive. When a home boarder applies for a licence, a local authority inspector visits their home to perform a rigorous assessment. They look at everything from the size of the rooms to the emergency protocols in place. Depending on how well the boarder meets the specific criteria set by the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra), they are awarded a rating from 1 to 5 stars.

What is Licensed Home Boarding for Dogs? A Trusted Alternative to Kennels in Swindon

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 21:11:07 GMT

Why Highworth Pet Care is the right choice for Swindon owners

Highworth Pet Care has been a staple of the Highworth and Swindon community since 2011. Licensed by Swindon Borough Council. Licence No 25/0746/ANHOM . We are not a large franchise; we are a small, dedicated business built on a foundation of honesty and a genuine love for animals. We are fully insured with PBI and hold separate first aid qualifications for both dogs and cats. This means that in the unlikely event of an emergency, we are trained to act quickly and effectively to protect your pet. You'll receive daily updates by Text, WhatsApp and Facebook

Our service is flexible and tailored to your needs. We understand that life can be unpredictable, whether it’s a sudden illness, a last-minute holiday, or a demanding work schedule. We are here to provide the reliable, professional support you need, treating your pets as if they were our own. We act in their best interest of our dogs at all times, ensuring they are not just "looked after," but truly cared for and loved while you are away.

If you are ready to discuss your dog's next stay or have questions about how we can help, please don't hesitate to Contact Us . We look forward to meeting you and your furry companion soon!

Licensed home boarding for dogs is a professional service where your pet stays in a vetted, private home rather than a kennel. In England, this requires a local council licence, ensuring high safety standards, personalised care, and a stress-free environment that mirrors your dog’s usual home routine and comfort.

Why choose licensed home boarding for dogs over kennels?

Leaving your dog behind when you go on holiday can be a difficult decision. Many owners worry about how their dog will cope in kennels, particularly if they are used to a quiet home life and enjoy lots of company.

Home Boarding offers a more personal and reassuring alternative, or as many describe it, a real home from home when you are away.

In England, Home boarding is regulated under the Animal Welfare (licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England) Regulations 2018, meaning your dog’s welfare is protected by strict standards.

All Licensed Home Boarders are inspected to ensure the property is safe, secure and suitable for dogs

There are strict rules on:

Cleanliness and hygiene
Space and comfort
Exercise and enrichment
Emergency procedures
Vaccination requirements
Limits on the number of dogs boarded together

Dogs must live in the home as part of the family, enjoying walks, playtime, enrichment and lots of personal fuss and attention, just like they would at home.

At Highworth Pet Care, we are licensed for 6 dogs, including our resident dog, Dixie Beagle. In practice, we keep the number of dogs low to ensure every dog receives the attention they deserve and to provide a relaxed atmosphere. Typically, we rarely board more than 2 to 3 dogs concurrently.

We always ensure that whenever dogs are sharing boarding, they are introduced before their stay to ensure they get on and to obtain written permission from all parties. This is usually a shared walk and sometimes a short visit to the house afterwards.

Peace of mind when you are away

Home Boarding combines the reassurance of regulation with the comfort of a safe, calm and loving home environment.

Choosing the right care for your dog is about trust and transparency. With almost 15 years of professional experience and a Level 3 Ofqual qualification, we are committed to providing the best possible care.

If you are looking for a reliable, experienced and caring alternative to kennels, Home Boarding might just be the perfect solution for you.

Each dog receives :

An Individual exercise and enrichment plan
Varied walks in beautiful locations
A calm, loving environment

At Highworth Pet Care, we understand that every dog is an individual. Whether they prefer a long hike through the beautiful Highworth countryside or a quiet afternoon napping by the radiator, the home boarding model allows us to cater to those specific quirks. This bespoke approach is simply not possible in a large-scale commercial kennel facility.

How to Choose Licensed Dog Home Boarding for Safety

Sun, 19 Apr 2026 18:43:25 GMT

Why choose Highworth Pet Care?

When you are looking for pet care in Highworth or the surrounding Swindon area, experience and trust are paramount. Established in 2011, Highworth Pet Care has spent over a decade building a reputation for excellence. We don't just meet the minimum requirements for a licence; we strive for the highest possible standards. Our 5-Star Licensed Home Boarding status is a testament to our commitment to providing a top-tier environment for your dogs.

Our philosophy is simple: we love your pets as if they were our own. Whether you need help because of a busy lifestyle, an upcoming holiday, or an unexpected illness, we offer flexible services tailored to your specific preferences. Beyond dog boarding, we also provide cat care and small animal care , ensuring that all members of your fur-family are looked after by qualified, insured, and passionate professionals.

How to verify a boarding licence

If you are unsure whether a provider is licensed, you should never be afraid to ask. A legitimate business will be proud to show you their certificate. You can also check the following:

The Licence Number: This should be displayed on the business website and any promotional material.
The Star Rating: Most councils now use a star system (1 to 5) to indicate how well the business met the standards and whether they have a history of compliance.
Council Website: Most local authorities maintain a public register of licensed animal businesses that you can search online.
The Expiry Date: Ensure the licence is current and has not lapsed.
Insurance Documents: Ask to see their public liability insurance to ensure it covers the specific services they are providing.

To ensure your dog receives the best possible care while you are away, always do your homework. Choosing a licensed provider like Highworth Pet Care isn't just a legal requirement; it’s an investment in your pet's happiness and your own peace of mind. If you are ready to book an assessment or have more questions about our boarding standards, please contact us today.

Summary Checklist for Choosing a Boarder

Verify the Licence: Ensure the provider holds a current local authority licence.
Check the Star Rating: Aim for higher-rated (4 or 5 star) businesses for the best standards.
Inspect the Home: Look for cleanliness, safety, and adequate space for your dog.
Ask About Training: Confirm they have animal first aid knowledge and experience.
Review the Contract: Ensure all terms, including emergency procedures, are clearly defined.

Is an unlicensed boarder cheaper but riskier?

It can be tempting to choose an unlicensed boarder, often found on social media or casual gig-economy apps, because they might charge a lower daily rate. However, the hidden risks often far outweigh the small financial saving. Unlicensed boarders are frequently unable to obtain professional public liability insurance because most insurers require a valid local authority licence as a condition of the policy. If an accident happens under the care of an uninsured and unlicensed person, you could be left facing massive vet bills or legal complications without any recourse.

Furthermore, unlicensed individuals often lack the formal training required to handle emergencies. At Highworth Pet Care, we are not only licensed but also hold separate First Aid qualifications for both cats and dogs. This means we can recognise the early signs of bloat, heatstroke, or choking and act decisively. An unlicensed hobbyist might miss these subtle cues, leading to devastating consequences. The lack of a licence often suggests a lack of commitment to the profession, whereas a licensed boarder treats your pet’s care as their primary responsibility.

Professionalism and Accountability

Choosing a licensed company means you are choosing accountability. When a business is licensed, they are subject to unannounced inspections. If they fail to maintain standards, their licence can be revoked, and they can be fined or banned from keeping animals. This oversight creates a powerful incentive to provide the best possible care every single day. It moves the relationship from a casual favour between acquaintances to a professional contract between a client and a dedicated service provider.

In addition to the licence, a professional boarder will often provide a free and friendly assessment before taking on a new guest. This is a chance for the boarder to see if the dog is a good fit for their home and for the owner to ask questions about the services provided. This level of due diligence is a hallmark of a professional operation that cares more about the animal's welfare than just filling a slot in their calendar.

What standards must a licensed boarder meet?

To achieve and maintain a licence, a boarding provider must adhere to a strict set of criteria known as the 'General Conditions' and 'Specific Conditions'. These cover everything from the size of the rooms to the frequency of exercise. At Highworth Pet Care, we pride ourselves on meeting these rigorous benchmarks to ensure our guests are happy and healthy.

Key standards include:

Space and Environment: Each dog must have enough room to move freely, sit, lie down, and wag their tail without hitting obstacles.
Exercise and Enrichment: Boarders must provide a clear plan for daily exercise and mental stimulation tailored to each dog's needs.
Safety and Security: Fencing must be escape-proof, and the home must be free from hazards like toxic plants or exposed wires.
Record Keeping: A detailed log of every dog, including their vaccination status, emergency contacts, and feeding requirements, must be kept.
Supervision: Dogs must never be left unattended for long periods, and there must be a clear plan for emergency situations.

Health and Hygiene Protocols

One of the most critical aspects of licensed dog home boarding is the management of health and hygiene. In a domestic setting, it is easy for cleanliness to slip if professional standards aren't applied. Licensed providers must have clear protocols for cleaning and disinfecting areas where dogs spend time. They use pet-safe chemicals that are effective against common canine illnesses, ensuring that the risk of cross-infection is kept to an absolute minimum.

Furthermore, a licensed boarder will always insist on seeing proof of up-to-date vaccinations, including Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, and Leptospirosis. Many also require the Kennel Cough vaccine. While this might seem like a hurdle for the owner, it is actually a vital protective measure for your dog. It ensures that every other guest in the home is equally protected, creating a "herd immunity" environment that keeps everyone safe. Licensed providers also have established relationships with local vets and clear procedures for isolation if a dog should fall ill during their stay.

Choosing a licensed dog home boarding company ensures your pet stays in a safe, inspected, and legally compliant environment. Local councils grant these licenses only after rigorous checks on hygiene, space, and welfare, providing professional peace of mind that unlicensed boarders cannot legally guarantee for your dog’s safety.

Why do councils require a boarding licence?

In the United Kingdom, the law regarding pet care changed significantly in 2018 with the introduction of the Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England) Regulations. These regulations were designed to sweep away outdated laws and replace them with a robust, modern framework that puts animal welfare at the very heart of the industry. When a business like Highworth Pet Care applies for a licence, they aren't just filling out a form; they are inviting the local authority to scrutinise every aspect of their operation.

Councils require these licences to prevent the exploitation of animals and to ensure that anyone looking after your dog is competent and responsible. The licensing process involves a detailed inspection by a qualified animal welfare officer, and in many cases, a veterinarian. They check the physical environment, the paperwork, and the knowledge of the provider. This ensures that the "home" in home boarding is truly a safe haven rather than a cluttered or dangerous space. Without this oversight, there is no way for a pet owner to verify that the standards they see on a website are actually being met behind closed doors.

The Legal Framework for Dog Boarding

The current legislation categorises pet boarding into several distinct areas, with dog home boarding being one of the most popular choices for owners who want their pets to stay in a domestic setting. The law is clear: anyone providing boarding for dogs in a home environment in the course of a business must have a licence. This applies even if the person only looks after one dog at a time. The goal is to standardise care across the country, ensuring that every dog receives a minimum level of attention, exercise, and safety.

Failure to hold a licence is a criminal offence. For the pet owner, choosing an unlicensed provider means you are supporting an unregulated business that is operating outside the law. More importantly, it means you are placing your dog in a situation where no external body has verified the suitability of the premises or the person. By choosing a licensed professional, you are upholding the legal standards meant to protect your beloved family member.