Sometimes, bringing your dog to the vet can be almost as overwhelming as going to your own doctor. By the time your veterinarian finishes going over the list of vaccines your dog needs and evaluates their physical condition, it is easy to forget what they said about the Bordetella vaccine. Here is what you need to know about the Bordetella vaccine to make sure your dog is up-to-date with their shots when they need it the most.
The Bordetella vaccine is a noncore vaccine usually given to dogs that are frequently exposed to other dogs in boarding or social settings. Canine facilities, such as dog daycare centers, boarding kennels, shows, dog parks, and training classes often require dogs to have the vaccine. This is because Bordetella bronchiseptica is the most common bacterial agent responsible for kennel cough in dogs.
Bordetella bronchiseptica causes inflammation of your dog’s upper respiratory system. This inflammation leads to coughing and illness and can expose your dog to secondary infections. However, you probably won’t hear anybody telling you that your dog has Bordetella bronchiseptica. Instead, most veterinarians and canine professionals call the disease kennel cough, which can lead to some confusion about what the Bordetella vaccine is for.
Getting your furry friend vaccinated can feel like navigating a maze sometimes. With so many shots and recommendations, it’s hard to know which ones are truly essential. The Bordetella vaccine is one that often raises questions for pet parents Is it really necessary? How often does your dog need it? Today, I’m gonna break down everything you need to know about this somewhat misunderstood vaccine
What Exactly Is Bordetella Anyway?
Bordetella bronchiseptica is a bacterium that affects your dog’s respiratory tract and is one of the main culprits behind what’s commonly known as “kennel cough.” Despite its name, your dog doesn’t have to stay in a kennel to catch it!
This highly contagious respiratory infection spreads quickly between dogs through:
- Direct contact
- Airborne droplets when infected dogs cough or sneeze
- Contaminated objects like toys, food bowls, or bedding
The hallmark symptom of kennel cough is that distinctive dry, hacking “honking” cough that sounds like your dog has something stuck in their throat. Other symptoms include:
- Sneezing
- Eye discharge
- Nasal discharge
- Fever
- Congestion
- Lethargy
- Decreased appetite
For most healthy adult dogs, kennel cough is usually just uncomfortable and annoying (kinda like a bad cold for humans). But for puppies, seniors, or dogs with compromised immune systems, it can potentially lead to more serious complications like bronchopneumonia or chronic bronchitis.
Why Your Dog Might Need the Bordetella Vaccine
The Bordetella vaccine is considered a “noncore” vaccine, which means not every single dog absolutely needs it. Whether your pup should get it depends largely on their lifestyle and risk factors.
Your dog would benefit from the Bordetella vaccine if they
- Attend doggy daycare
- Stay at boarding facilities
- Get groomed professionally
- Participate in training classes
- Compete in dog shows or sporting events
- Visit dog parks regularly
- Socialize frequently with other dogs
The reality is that many facilities that house multiple dogs REQUIRE the Bordetella vaccine. This makes sense when you think about it – they’re trying to protect all the dogs in their care from an outbreak of kennel cough, which would be a nightmare scenario for both the business and the pet parents!
How Effective Is the Bordetella Vaccine?
Let’s be real – no vaccine is 100% perfect. The Bordetella vaccine is highly effective at preventing kennel cough, but breakthrough infections can occasionally happen. The good news is that even if a vaccinated dog does somehow contract kennel cough, their symptoms are typically much milder and resolve faster than in unvaccinated dogs.
It’s worth noting that kennel cough can be caused by multiple pathogens, not just Bordetella bronchiseptica. The vaccine specifically targets this bacterium, which is the most common cause, but doesn’t protect against all possible causes of respiratory infection.
Vaccination Schedule: When Does Your Dog Need It?
For Puppies
Puppies should receive their first Bordetella vaccine between 6-8 weeks of age. They’ll need a booster shot about 4 weeks later (around 10-12 weeks old). If you’ve adopted an older puppy and aren’t sure of their vaccination history, your vet will likely recommend starting with two rounds to ensure full protection.
For Adult Dogs
For adult dogs, the vaccination schedule depends on your dog’s lifestyle:
- High-risk dogs (those who board frequently, attend daycare, training classes, or regularly visit dog parks): Every 6 months
- Lower-risk dogs (primarily homebodies who have limited contact with other dogs): Every 12 months
Many boarding facilities, groomers, and training centers require proof that your dog has had a Bordetella vaccine within the last 6 months, so keep that in mind when planning your dog’s care.
Different Types of Bordetella Vaccines
The Bordetella vaccine comes in different forms:
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Injectable: Given under the skin, this is the most common form and is typically well-tolerated by most dogs.
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Intranasal: This is sprayed directly into your dog’s nostrils. While some dogs find this uncomfortable, it has the advantage of providing immunity more quickly (sometimes in as little as 72 hours versus 2 weeks for the injectable version).
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Oral: Less common but available at some veterinary practices. This form is given by mouth and may be preferred for dogs who struggle with injections or intranasal administration.
Your vet can help determine which type is best for your particular pup based on their temperament and specific needs.
Potential Side Effects of the Bordetella Vaccine
Like any medical treatment, the Bordetella vaccine can sometimes cause side effects, though they’re usually mild and temporary:
- Lethargy for a day or two after vaccination
- Reduced appetite
- Low-grade fever
- Soreness or swelling at the injection site (for injectable version)
- Mild coughing, sneezing, or nasal discharge (particularly with intranasal version)
Serious reactions are rare, but if your dog experiences difficulty breathing, facial swelling, vomiting, or collapse after receiving any vaccine, contact your vet immediately as these could indicate an allergic reaction requiring prompt attention.
Is It Ever OK to Skip the Bordetella Vaccine?
For some dogs, the Bordetella vaccine might not be necessary. If your dog:
- Rarely or never encounters other dogs
- Doesn’t visit boarding facilities, groomers, dog parks, or training classes
- Has had severe reactions to previous vaccines
- Is immunocompromised or has certain health conditions
…then talk to your vet about whether the benefits outweigh the risks in your specific situation.
Your vet might also advise against the Bordetella vaccine if your dog is pregnant, sick, or already immunocompromised. This is a case-by-case decision that should be made with professional guidance.
Real Talk: My Experience with Kennel Cough
I remember when my dog Max caught kennel cough after a weekend stay at a new boarding facility (that didn’t require the Bordetella vaccine, lesson learned!). That awful honking cough kept us both up for several nights, and seeing him feeling so miserable was heartbreaking.
The vet prescribed rest, cough suppressants, and antibiotics to prevent secondary infections. He recovered fully after about two weeks, but it was a rough time for both of us. Now I’m religious about keeping his Bordetella vaccine up-to-date, especially since he loves doggy daycare and I occasionally need to board him when traveling.
Bordetella Vaccine Cost Considerations
The cost of the Bordetella vaccine typically ranges from $25-$50, depending on your location and veterinary practice. Some clinics offer vaccine clinics or wellness packages that may reduce the cost.
When you consider the potential costs of treating kennel cough (which can run $100-$200 for a mild case, or much more if complications develop), the vaccine is definitely the more economical option. Not to mention, it spares your dog the discomfort of illness and you the worry and inconvenience.
The Bottom Line: How Important Is the Bordetella Vaccine?
So, is the Bordetella vaccine really that important for your dog? Here’s my honest take:
If your dog regularly interacts with other dogs or visits places where dogs congregate, the Bordetella vaccine is definitely important. It’s a relatively inexpensive way to protect your pup from a common, highly contagious respiratory infection that, while rarely fatal in healthy adult dogs, can cause significant discomfort and potentially lead to more serious problems in vulnerable dogs.
For truly isolated dogs who never encounter other canines, the vaccine may be less crucial. But even these dogs can sometimes be exposed to kennel cough through indirect contact, such as when you visit other dogs and bring the bacteria home on your clothes.
Ultimately, the decision should be made in consultation with your veterinarian, who can assess your dog’s individual risk factors and health status to provide personalized advice.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Bordetella Vaccine
Can my dog still get kennel cough even if vaccinated?
Yes, it’s possible. The vaccine protects against the most common cause of kennel cough (Bordetella bronchiseptica), but kennel cough can be caused by multiple pathogens. Think of it like the human flu shot – it significantly reduces your risk but doesn’t eliminate it entirely.
Will the vaccine make my dog sick?
Most dogs tolerate the vaccine very well. Some may experience mild, temporary side effects like lethargy or soreness at the injection site, but these typically resolve within a day or two. Serious adverse reactions are rare.
Can the Bordetella vaccine be given at the same time as other vaccines?
In most cases, yes. Your veterinarian can administer the Bordetella vaccine alongside other routine vaccinations. However, they may recommend spacing them out if your dog has had reactions to vaccines in the past.
Can humans catch kennel cough from dogs?
Bordetella is species-specific, meaning the strain that affects dogs doesn’t typically infect humans. Kennel cough can’t spread from dogs to humans, so you don’t need to worry about catching it from your furry friend.
How long after vaccination is my dog protected?
Protection typically begins within 5-7 days for injectable vaccines and possibly sooner (48-72 hours) for intranasal vaccines. Full immunity is usually established within 2 weeks.
Final Thoughts
The Bordetella vaccine is one of those preventative measures that falls into the “better safe than sorry” category for most dogs. While not every dog absolutely needs it, the vaccine offers important protection for social dogs and peace of mind for their owners.
Remember that vaccination decisions should always be made in partnership with your veterinarian, taking into account your dog’s age, health status, lifestyle, and risk factors. Together, you can create a vaccination plan that keeps your furry friend healthy and happy for years to come.
Has your dog ever experienced kennel cough? Do you keep up with the Bordetella vaccine? Share your experiences in the comments below!
Is the Bordetella Vaccine Necessary?
Kennel cough is highly contagious. If your dog goes to dog parks, boarding facilities, dog daycare, or attends training classes or dog shows, then they’re at risk for contracting kennel cough. Many of these facilities require dogs to come with proof of the Bordetella vaccination before they are allowed on the premises, so it is in your dog’s best interest to get the vaccine. If your dog stays in the house and is rarely around other dogs, talk to your veterinarian about whether or not they believe your dog is at risk of contracting kennel cough.
What Is Kennel Cough?
Kennel cough is an all-encompassing term used to depict a multitude of highly contagious respiratory illnesses. It is usually spread in areas where large numbers of dogs are confined, like kennels, which is how the disease got its name. Kennel cough itself is not fatal, but the disease can lead to fatal bronchopneumonia in puppies and chronic bronchitis in senior or immunocompromised dogs. That’s why it is important to assess whether or not your dog is at risk of catching the disease when deciding to vaccinate.
Kennel cough, scientifically known as canine infectious tracheobronchitis, is easily spread from dog to dog through aerosol droplets, direct contact, or contact with contaminated surfaces like food and water bowls, toys, or kennel runs — a bit like how the common cold is spread in grade schools. Your dog is most likely to pick it up in an area where lots of dogs congregate, but they can also pick it up from any contaminated environment. You may also bring it home to them if you spend a lot of time around dogs at work or during volunteer opportunities.
The most distinctive symptom of kennel cough is the loud, unmistakable honking cough that dogs develop with the disease. Other symptoms of kennel cough in dogs include a runny nose, sneezing, loss of appetite, lethargy, and a low fever. These symptoms are also similar to those experienced by dogs infected with canine distemper and the canine influenza virus, which are much more serious than kennel cough, so make sure you call your veterinarian and explain your dog’s symptoms. Calling ahead will also help your veterinarian prevent the spread of kennel cough in their office, so make sure you follow the instructions when you bring your dog in for a visit.
The good news is that despite kennel cough’s contagious nature, the disease is usually very treatable. Your veterinarian may prescribe a few weeks of rest for your dog, along with cough medicine and possibly antibiotics to prevent any secondary infections from causing complications. Keep in mind that your veterinarian may prescribe more aggressive treatment procedures if your dog is a puppy, a senior, or an immunocompromised dog. Talk to your veterinarian about preventing the spread of kennel cough from an infected dog to other dogs in the house or neighborhood.