What Texas 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. But if you board more than 3 dogs or cats and leave them with no staff present, you must tell owners in writing the unattended hours and whether you lack a fire sprinkler, and get their signed consent; check with your city for a permit.
Vets only
The law covers only veterinarians: 10 days after notice by certified mail. 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.
Sources: Tex. Health & Safety Code ch. 824 Tex. Occ. Code § 801.357 Tex. Health & Safety Code § 826.021
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | No state license | Vets only | Required |
| Arkansas | No state license | Vets only | Required |
| Louisiana | No state license | Covers kennels | Required |
| New Mexico | No state license | Covers kennels | Required |
| Oklahoma | No state license | Vets only | Required |
Zoning, your county or city, and the fire marshal come too. The Opening Kit walks you through all of them, with the questions to ask each office, then insurance, policies, prices and your first twenty clients.
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