Bordetella Vaccine vs Kennel Cough: A Guide to Canine Health

Bordetella is a highly contagious bacterial infection that affects dogs, often causing a persistent cough.

Kennel cough, also known as infectious tracheobronchitis, is a common canine respiratory disease caused by the Bordetella bronchiseptica bacteria.

The Bordetella vaccine is designed to protect dogs against this bacterial infection, which can be spread through contact with an infected dog's respiratory secretions.

The vaccine is not 100% effective, but it can significantly reduce the severity and duration of kennel cough symptoms.

In some cases, the vaccine may not provide complete protection against kennel cough, but it can still help prevent more severe forms of the disease.

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Kennel Cough is a common upper respiratory infection of dogs of all ages, caused by the bacteria Bordetella bronchiseptica. It's spread through saliva and/or aerosolized particles from an infected dog, either through direct contact or through exposure to surfaces that an infected dog has had contact with.

Kennel Cough requires a veterinarian exam to confirm diagnoses, and it's most often recognized by a persistent hacking or honking, gagging, sometimes spasmodic or unproductive cough. Some dogs may be experience low energy, decreased appetite, or may be asymptomatic but still contagious.

Kennel Cough can last for days or weeks if left untreated, and it's a good idea to take preventative measures to avoid contracting the disease.

Some other symptoms to look out for include eye discharge, a decrease in appetite, a consistently runny nose, and fever.

A veterinarian can usually diagnose Bordetella by observing the characteristic hacking or gagging cough. Laboratory tests, such as bacterial culture, may also be conducted to aid in the diagnosis.

If your dog has Bordetella, you may notice a persistent, sometimes hoarse cough that sounds like a "honking goose." This is the main symptom of the infection.

The cough can be quite distinctive, and some dog owners even refer to it as "reverse sneezing."

Some other symptoms of Bordetella infections in dogs include eye discharge, a decrease in appetite, and a consistently runny nose.

A fever can also be a sign of the infection, but it's not always present.

Puppies are at greater risk for Kennel Cough if they have not been vaccinated yet or have not been previously exposed to Kennel Cough.

If your pup contracts Kennel Cough, Pawsitive Pooch will contact your veterinarian immediately for advice.

The policy at Pawsitive Pooch is to wait at least one week from the time your dog starts treatment (if recommended) before returning to daycare, assuming they are on the expected course of recovery and no longer exhibiting symptoms.

Pawsitive Pooch uses cleaners formulated specifically for veterinarian environments, targeting and eliminating potential transmission of viruses and bacteria like Kennel Cough.

If Pawsitive Pooch observes coughing while in their care, they will isolate the pup until you are able to pick them up, and notify you immediately.

Treatments for Kennel Cough are usually straightforward, but it's essential to follow your vet's advice and complete the full dosage of any prescribed medicine, even if your dog seems better after a few days.

Antibiotics might be prescribed to help speed up recovery and limit additional infections, so be sure to use up the full amount your vet gives you.

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Vaccines are available to prevent Kennel Cough-related infections, and these vaccinations are often required if you need to board your dog at the vet overnight.

If your pup contracts Kennel Cough, it's crucial to contact your veterinarian immediately for advice, and to wait at least one week from the time your dog starts treatment before returning to daycare, assuming they're on the expected course of recovery and no longer exhibiting symptoms.

The facility where your dog spends time should take precautions to prevent the spread of Kennel Cough, such as using cleaners specifically formulated for veterinarian environments.

All dogs are at risk for Kennel Cough, which can be transmitted through brief contact with an infected surface or an infected dog on your hands, shoes, and clothing.

Puppies are particularly vulnerable if they haven't been vaccinated yet or haven't been previously exposed to Kennel Cough, even if their owners have taken precautions.

The Bordetella bacteria, which causes Kennel Cough, can survive outside for about half an hour and is highly contagious during that time.

Dogs can contract Kennel Cough through contact with an infected surface, even if it's just a brief touch. This is because Kennel Cough can survive outside for about half an hour, making it highly contagious during that time.

You can also transmit Kennel Cough from an infected dog on your hands, shoes, and clothing, making it easy to spread the disease. If you've recently visited a dog park, vet, or pet store, you may have unknowingly brought Kennel Cough home with you.

Puppies are at a higher risk for Kennel Cough if they haven't been vaccinated yet or haven't been previously exposed to the disease. Even vaccinated dogs can still contract Kennel Cough, as no vaccine exists to cover every strain.

Some common situations that can put your dog at increased risk for Kennel Cough include dog park visits, vet visits, grooming, day care, boarding, and training classes. These are just a few of the many situations that can increase your dog's risk.

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To protect your dog from Kennel Cough, the Bordetella vaccine is available. This vaccine protects dogs against the Bordetella virus and can prevent them from getting Kennel Cough. The intranasal version of the vaccine is typically administered yearly, although some facilities may recommend it every six months.

If your dog goes to dog parks, boarding facilities, or attends training classes, they may be required to have proof of the Bordetella vaccination. This is because many of these facilities require dogs to be vaccinated against Kennel Cough to prevent the spread of the disease.

Here are some common situations that can put your dog at increased risk for Kennel Cough:

Modified live vaccines can pose a risk to humans, especially those with weakened immune systems. These individuals may contract the vaccine virus, leading to serious health complications.

People with weakened immune systems, such as the elderly, pregnant women, and those with chronic illnesses, are particularly vulnerable to the risks associated with modified live vaccines in dogs.

On a similar theme: What Vaccines Do Dogs Need to Be Boarded?