A dog’s vaccine records need to be kept safe with copies. Why? You might even be wondering if your dog’s medical or dog’s vaccine records are covered by the same HIPPA rights that protect you. Unfortunately, your furry, dog family member is, in the eyes of the law consider “property” and is not afforded the same rights as you.
However, he does have some rights. Some states have established pets rights. You will need to check your state. Additionally, most states have a stipulation that veterinarians cannot release your dog’s medical records without your consent. Generally, this is one of those tiny little boxes you check in the small print. If your veterinarian has to refer your dog to a specialist, most likely you will have to sign a release form.
That sounds fair enough.
However, what about your dog vaccine records. You will quickly learn that a current copy of this list will need to be provided to many of your services.
Many veterinarians’ offices have vaccination records available online or through an app. Or you can ask your vet for a copy of your dog’s records. I suggest having a copy of your dog’s current vaccine records, just in case you can’t get online when you need access.
Here’s a list of providers you can expect to supply a copy of your dog’s current vaccine records.
1. Landlords
While some landlords may charge extra for a dog, many will not allow you to rent from them without a current copy of your dog’s records. This is for your dog’s, you, and the landlord’s protection.
2. Groomer
Most groomers will not allow you to even bring your dog for a visit without a current copy of your dog’s records.
In this article, I walk you through how to find the best dog groomer for you and your pup.
3. Dog Walker
Many dog walkers will not even do a meet and greet without a current copy of your dog’s shot records.
In this article, I give you 17 simple steps to finding a great dog walker.
4. Doggie Daycare
Again, most doggie daycares will not allow you to visit their facility with your dog without a current copy of your dog’s shot records.
In this article, I walk you through easy ways to find a fabulous doggie daycare.
5. Dog Trainers
Most trainers will not even schedule your first class without a current copy of your dog’s records
6. Travel
This includes dog-friendly hotels, car rentals, airplanes, house rentals, and campgrounds. They will all want a copy of your dog’s current vaccine records before you book your holiday.
7. Out-Of-Town Veterinarians
While it’s not essential to have your dog’s records for an out-of-town vet, in the case of an emergency, it will certainly make things easier.
8. Emergency Vets
Again, it’s not essential, but anything to help in time of an emergency is always a good thing.
In this article, I talk about how to find a great veterinarian for you and your dog.
9. Evacuations
If you should be required to evacuate your home due to fire, hurricane, tornado, or some other disaster, a lot of animal in-take sites will require a current copy of your dog’s vaccine records.
10. Work
If you are lucky enough to be able to take your dog to a dog-friendly office to work, your employer may require that you provide a copy of your dog’s vaccine records.
Budget Tip:
It doesn’t take much to make a copy anymore. However, if someone wants to make a fuss and demand a hard copy when you aren’t prepared, it can cause you a headache. So, it’s always good to be prepared and save running around when you don’t have access to a copier on vacation. Yep, it seems like preparation is a key to life.
Summary of reasons why you need copies of your dog’s vaccine records
This article covers the ten most likely people and places to ask for a copy of your dog’s vaccine records. You can often get access to a digital copy of your dog’s vaccine records. However, a lot of vendors like hard copies. Additionally, if for any reason, you misplace your phone or in case of technology decides to go on strike. I always like having a hard copy backup.
My suggestion is to always be prepared and have a copy of your dog’s current vaccine records ready to go whenever someone should ask for them.
Some people or places who will want a copy include landlords, groomers, dog walkers, doggie daycares, trainers, travel (such as hotels, airlines, house rentals, or campsites), vets, evacuation sites, and work. You may find other people or places who request a copy as well. This is not an exclusive list.
