Bringing your dog to Las Vegas can be a great way to make your trip even more memorable, but it does take some preparation. Between the desert heat, city rules, and travel logistics, there are a few important things to take care of before you hit the road—or board that plane. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or staying a little longer, this guide walks you through everything you’ll need to know to keep your pup healthy, legal, and comfortable while enjoying your Vegas adventure.

Rabies, Health Certificates, and ID

The single most important thing you need before bringing your dog to Nevada is a current rabies vaccination. That one’s non-negotiable. Nevada state law requires all dogs to be vaccinated against rabies, and Clark County (which includes most of Las Vegas) backs that up with its own local rules. Your dog needs to be at least 3–4 months old to have the shot, and you’ll want to carry a rabies certificate from your vet that shows the vaccination is current—whether it’s an annual booster or a 3-year version.

If you’re traveling to Nevada from another state, technically, a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI) is also required. This is a document your vet fills out confirming your dog is healthy and free from contagious diseases. It’s not something that gets checked at the border if you’re driving, but if you’re flying—or if you have any kind of emergency or vet visit while you’re in town—having that health certificate can really come in handy. Most airlines require it anyway, and it’s good for peace of mind. Plan to get this certificate within 10 days of your trip.

As for identification, Clark County expects dogs to wear ID tags and a rabies tag on their collar. If you’re visiting, you don’t need to get a local license, but you should make sure your dog has their home city’s tag, plus that rabies proof. Microchipping isn’t required, but it’s strongly recommended—especially when you’re in a busy, tourist-heavy area where it’s easy for dogs to get separated from their humans.

Recommended Vaccines and Preventatives

The rabies vaccine is the only one that’s legally required, but there are a few others you should seriously consider before bringing your dog to Las Vegas—especially if you’re planning to visit dog parks, use daycare, or just be out and about around other pets.

Most vets recommend a core combo vaccine (DHPP or DAPP) that covers distemper, parvo, hepatitis, and parainfluenza. These diseases are highly contagious and sometimes deadly, so make sure your dog is up to date before your trip. Bordetella, commonly known as the “kennel cough” vaccine, is also a smart addition—especially if your pup will be socializing at dog parks or staying at a boarding facility. Some Vegas dog daycares won’t accept dogs without it.

Canine influenza is another vaccine that may be required at pet hotels or doggy daycares. There are two strains, and your vet can advise if both are needed based on your travel plans. Leptospirosis is less common in the desert, but not unheard of—especially if your dog will be hiking, sniffing around irrigation systems, or spending time near bodies of water like Lake Mead.

And then there are parasites. Las Vegas may be a dry climate, but don’t let that fool you—heartworm is increasingly common here due to mosquito populations in irrigated areas. Make sure your dog is on a heartworm preventative before you arrive. Flea and tick prevention is also important, especially if you’re venturing out to places like Red Rock Canyon or Mount Charleston.

Flying or Driving? What Travel Looks Like with a Dog

If you’re flying to Las Vegas, you’ll need to show proof of a current rabies shot and provide that Certificate of Veterinary Inspection. Most airlines want that certificate dated within 10 days of your flight, and they also have age and size restrictions—so double-check your carrier’s pet policy before booking. Bring physical copies of your paperwork, and consider keeping digital backups just in case.

Driving is a little simpler—there’s no pet checkpoint at the Nevada border—but the legal requirements still technically apply. If you end up needing to visit a vet during your stay or want to board your dog somewhere, you’ll be glad you brought your rabies certificate and health certificate along. Keep your dog safely restrained in your vehicle, plan for potty and water breaks, and don’t forget to pack their usual food, any medications, and something familiar like a blanket or toy to ease the transition.

Hotels, Rentals, and Daycare

Many Las Vegas hotels are pet-friendly, but their requirements can vary. Most won’t ask to see vaccine records at check-in, but you’ll usually have to sign a waiver saying your dog is vaccinated and flea-free. It’s rare for a hotel to physically inspect your paperwork, but bringing it with you is smart in case something comes up. Some hotels prohibit leaving pets unattended in the room or require that they be crated if left alone. Always ask about the hotel’s full pet policy when booking.

If you’re considering doggy daycare or boarding, be aware that these places have much stricter requirements. You’ll typically need to show proof of rabies, DHPP, Bordetella, and sometimes canine flu vaccines. Many facilities also ask for a clean fecal test and require dogs to be spayed or neutered. If you plan to use any of these services, bring full vet records or make sure your vet is available to email them quickly.

What to Expect Once You Arrive

Las Vegas has fairly straightforward pet laws, but there are a few quirks. Leash laws are strictly enforced—your dog must be leashed in all public areas unless you’re inside a fenced dog park. And on the Strip? Dogs are only allowed between 5:00 AM and noon. After that, it’s off-limits for pups, even on a leash. It’s a safety rule due to the heavy crowds and high temperatures, and it’s something many visitors overlook.

You also need to pick up after your dog—no exceptions. Fines for failing to do so are steep, and locals don’t take kindly to visitors who leave messes behind. Carry poop bags, and take advantage of the many pet waste stations around the city. Also, keep your dog hydrated. The dry desert air means they’ll need water more often, especially if you’re walking around.

Dog parks in Vegas are generally well-maintained and popular. Most require that dogs be fully vaccinated and wear visible ID, though no one’s checking at the gate. Use your judgment: if your dog isn’t social or doesn’t do well off-leash, skip the park. If you do go, keep an eye on your pup, separate by size if possible, and bring your own water bowl just in case.

Heat Safety and Outdoor Hazards

The desert heat is one of the biggest concerns when visiting Las Vegas with a dog. Even early in the day, the pavement can be scorching—hot enough to burn paws in seconds. Always test surfaces with your hand, and consider investing in protective boots or paw wax. Try to plan walks in the early morning or after sunset, and avoid walking your dog mid-day during the summer months.

Keep an eye out for wildlife if you’re hiking. Snakes, scorpions, and spiders are part of the desert ecosystem, and curious dogs can get into trouble fast. Some local vets offer a rattlesnake vaccine, which doesn’t prevent bites but can reduce the severity of symptoms and buy you time to get to a vet. If you’ll be hiking often or going far from the city, it’s worth asking your vet about it in advance.

Final Tips for a Smooth Trip

Before you travel, get your dog a check-up and make sure they’re up to date on vaccines and medications. Bring a copy of their medical records, enough food and meds for the full trip (plus extra), and a small pet first-aid kit for emergencies. Know the location of a nearby 24-hour vet before you need one. It’s also helpful to have a few cooling products—like a reflective vest, collapsible bowl, or cooling mat—especially if you’ll be spending a lot of time outside.