Kennel Cough Vaccine: What You Need to Know

The kennel cough vaccine is a crucial tool in preventing the spread of kennel cough, a highly contagious respiratory disease affecting dogs.

The kennel cough vaccine is available in various forms, including injectable and intranasal vaccines.

It's essential to note that the kennel cough vaccine is not a guarantee against contracting kennel cough, but it significantly reduces the severity and duration of the disease.

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Kennel cough is a respiratory illness caused by the Bordetella bronchiseptica bacteria, often in combination with a virus or weakened immune system.

The bacteria can also be purely viral, and the vaccine for the bacteria may not be effective in these cases.

Kennel cough is highly contagious among dogs, who can catch it by breathing in airborne droplets from an infected dog's cough.

Dogs can be contagious for 6 to 14 weeks, making it a common issue in dog daycare centers, grooming salons, and boarding kennels.

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These businesses often require the bordetella vaccine before allowing dogs to stay, but vaccination is not a guarantee against contracting the disease.

Some factors that can increase a dog's risk of getting kennel cough despite being vaccinated include:

Puppies and senior dogs are more susceptible to kennel cough, and a veterinarian will diagnose the illness based on symptoms and exposure history.

A vaccine for kennel cough is available to inoculate dogs against the bordetella bacterium, the most common cause of kennel cough.

Dogs who are frequently boarded, visit dog daycare, compete in canine sports, or otherwise are exposed to groups of dogs may benefit from the vaccine. Many training, boarding, and daycare facilities require proof of vaccination.

The vaccine is available in oral, intranasal, and injectable forms, and depending on the form, it is usually given in two doses two to four weeks apart, followed by a booster every six months to a year.

Although most cases of kennel cough are caused by the bordetella bacterium, some are caused by other germs, so the bordetella vaccine on its own may not prevent your dog from catching kennel cough.

To reduce the risk of reactions, your vet may suggest getting your dog's Bordetella vaccine separated out from any other vaccinations they need over the course of several days, especially for smaller dogs.

The risk of serious adverse reactions to vaccination is quite low, but if your dog has previously had a reaction to a vaccine, always inform your vet ahead of time.

The Bordetella (kennel cough) vaccine protects dogs against several, but not all, strains of kennel cough, so your dog can still catch it despite being vaccinated.

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The kennel cough vaccine is a must-have for dogs that frequently interact with other dogs. It protects against the Bordetella bronchiseptica bacterium, the most common cause of kennel cough.

The vaccine is available in oral, intranasal, and injectable forms, and it's usually given in two doses two to four weeks apart, followed by a booster every six months to a year. This schedule helps maintain the vaccine's effectiveness and prevent the spread of the disease.

While the Bordetella vaccine doesn't offer 100% immunity from all strains, it still provides significant protection for dogs that are regularly exposed to other dogs in a kennel environment. In fact, many kennels, groomers, and doggy daycares won't accept dogs without proof of Bordetella vaccination.

The vaccine can also make the symptoms of kennel cough milder, which is especially important for dogs with underlying heart or respiratory issues. It's essential to follow the recommended vaccination schedule to ensure your dog's protection against this highly contagious disease.

Here are some key facts about the kennel cough vaccine:

Keep in mind that the risk of reactions to vaccinations increases when multiple vaccinations are given at one time, especially in smaller dogs. If your dog has previously had a reaction to a vaccine, inform your vet ahead of time to mitigate risks.

The Bordetella vaccine is administered in two forms: an intranasal spray and an injection. The intranasal spray can be given to dogs as young as 6 weeks old, while the injectable version isn't suitable for dogs younger than 8 weeks.

It's essential to know what to look out for in terms of vaccine reactions, as they can be mild and short-lived. Mild symptoms after a kennel cough booster can resemble a human cold.

The vaccine is shed in your dog's nose and mouth for up to 35 days and in their feces for up to 70 days, so be mindful when mixing with other dogs and always clear up their poop immediately.

The Bordetella vaccine can be administered in two forms: an intranasal spray and an injection. Both forms are comparably effective.

The nasal spray version can be given to dogs as young as 6 weeks old. This makes it a great option for puppies who need protection against kennel cough.

The injectable Bordetella vaccine, on the other hand, isn't suitable for dogs younger than 8 weeks. So, if you have a puppy under 8 weeks, the nasal spray is the way to go.

After administration, your dog may experience mild symptoms similar to a human cold. But don't worry, these symptoms are usually short-lived and the vaccine helps to minimize the severity of kennel cough.

Mild adverse reactions to the Bordetella vaccine in dogs are possible and expected, but they're usually very short-lived.

The reactions are generally mild, but it's essential to know what to look out for and what to do if your pup displays more severe symptoms.

Mild reactions to the Bordetella vaccine can include redness, swelling, or pain at the injection site, as well as lethargy or loss of appetite.

These symptoms are usually temporary and resolve on their own within a few days.

If your dog has previously had a reaction to a vaccine, inform your vet ahead of time, as they may advise skipping the Bordetella vaccine to mitigate risks.

Separating the Bordetella vaccine from other vaccinations can also help reduce the risk of reactions, particularly in smaller dogs.

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Mild cases of kennel cough are typically treated with a week or so of rest and supportive care, similar to how you'd treat your own common cold.

To ease your dog's symptoms, use a harness instead of a collar, which can trigger coughing by putting pressure on the trachea.

If your dog normally visits a dog daycare while you're at work, you'll need to keep them home to help limit the spread to other dogs.

Here are some home remedies you can try:

Your veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics to prevent secondary bacterial infection, as well as cough suppressant medication to ease the symptoms and help your dog (and you) sleep.

Lethargy is a common symptom in dogs, especially after receiving the Bordetella vaccine. It's normal for your dog to feel a bit "off" for a day or two.

You can expect your dog to be lethargic, with a mild fever, as their immune system works to respond to the vaccine. These symptoms should only last one or two days.

If your dog isn't back to their normal levels of energy after a couple of days, it's essential to contact your vet. They can assess your dog's health and provide guidance on how to proceed.

Lethargy can also be a symptom of kennel cough, a highly contagious respiratory infection. Other symptoms of kennel cough include a strong cough, runny nose, sneezing, loss of appetite, and low fever.

Here are some common symptoms of kennel cough:

If your dog has kennel cough, there are some things you can try at home to ease their symptoms. Use a harness instead of a collar, which can trigger coughing by putting pressure on the trachea.

Offering tasty, smelly foods can help tempt your dog to eat if they're not interested in their regular food. You can also try giving them honey with warm water to help soothe their throat and ease the cough.

Rest is essential for your dog to recover from kennel cough. Make sure they have plenty of quiet time to rest and relax.

Here are some signs that your dog may need to see a vet:

If your dog does need to see the vet, they may prescribe an antibiotic, cough medicine, or anti-inflammatory medications to make your dog more comfortable.

The cost of the kennel cough vaccine is relatively affordable, ranging from $28 to $35, although prices may vary depending on the clinic.

This cost does not include exam fees, so be sure to factor those in as well.

If you're looking to save money, you might consider ManyPet's non-insurance wellness plan, which may help cover the cost of this vaccine.

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Even if your dog is vaccinated, they can still develop kennel cough due to exposure to the bacteria and viruses that cause the illness.

The Bordetella vaccine protects against some, but not all, strains of kennel cough. Other bacteria and viruses can still cause the illness, making it possible for vaccinated dogs to contract kennel cough.

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If your vaccinated dog starts to cough, it's possible they've still caught kennel cough despite being vaccinated.

Dogs with compromised immune systems or those exposed to kennel cough before receiving the vaccine may develop the illness in spite of vaccination.

While the vaccine reduces the chance of incidence and may decrease the severity of the illness once contracted, it's not a guarantee against kennel cough.

Here are some factors that can make your vaccinated dog more susceptible to kennel cough:

The cost of vaccinations can be a significant factor in pet ownership. The Bordetella vaccine generally costs between $28 and $35.

This cost can add up quickly, especially if your pet requires multiple vaccinations. It also doesn't include exam fees, which can be an additional expense.

Some clinics may offer more affordable options or discounts, but it's essential to check with your veterinarian for specific pricing. ManyPet's non-insurance wellness plan may help cover the cost of this vaccine!

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