What Kentucky law says about licensing a boarding kennel or daycare, pets nobody picks up, and rabies. Checked November 2, 2026.
No state license
No state license. Check with your county or city.
Vets only
The law covers only veterinarians: 10 days after notice by certified mail, return receipt requested. A non-vet kennel is not covered, so ask an attorney before rehoming an unclaimed pet.
Required
Dogs must be vaccinated by 4 months of age.
The rabies law was amended in 2026 (effective July 15, 2026), but the duty to vaccinate remains.
Sources: KRS 257.100 KRS 258.015 KRS ch. 258
Facts, not legal advice. Laws change, and your county or city may have its own kennel permit: call them before you rely on any of this.
| State | Kennel license | Pets nobody picks up | Rabies |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | No state license | Vets only | Required |
| Illinois | State license | Covers kennels | Required |
| Indiana | No state license | Vets only | Required |
| Missouri | State license | Vets only | Local rules |
| Ohio | No state license | Unclear | Local rules |
| Tennessee | No state license | Vets only | Required |
| Virginia | No state license | Covers kennels | Required |
| West Virginia | State license | Vets only | Required |
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