The kennel cough vaccine is a must for any dog owner who wants to protect their furry friend from this highly contagious disease. The American Animal Hospital Association recommends that dogs be vaccinated against kennel cough every 6-12 months, depending on their lifestyle and exposure to other dogs.
Dogs that are frequently exposed to other dogs, such as those that go to dog parks or daycare, may need to be vaccinated more frequently. The duration of immunity from the kennel cough vaccine can last up to 12 months, but it's essential to follow the recommended vaccination schedule to ensure your dog's protection.
What Is Kennel Cough?
Kennel cough is a viral infection that affects dogs, and it's often contracted by inhaling infection particles. This can happen when dogs are in areas with other dogs, such as dog parks or boarding facilities.
Dogs are more likely to catch kennel cough in poorly ventilated spaces, like certain kennels. This is because the infection particles can spread more easily in these areas.
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Colder temperatures and exposure to dust or smoke can also increase the chances of a dog catching kennel cough. I've seen dogs get sick in the winter when they're stuck inside with other dogs and there's not enough ventilation.
Some situations can raise a dog's risk of getting kennel cough, including stress caused by travel issues. This can happen when dogs are taken to new places and don't have time to adjust.
Here are some situations that can increase a dog's chances of catching kennel cough:
- Staying in a poorly ventilated living space (such as certain kennels)
- Colder temperatures
- Exposure to dust or smoke
- Stress (often brought on by travel issues)
Vaccine Necessity and Risks
The Bordetella vaccine is a must-have for dogs that frequent dog parks, boarding facilities, dog daycare, or attend training classes or dog shows.
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.
Many facilities require proof of the Bordetella vaccination before allowing dogs on the premises, so it's in your dog's best interest to get the vaccine.
However, your veterinarian may advise against getting the Bordetella vaccine if your dog is immunocompromised, sick, or pregnant.
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Vaccine Risks
Vaccines are generally very safe, but there are some risks to consider, especially for dogs with compromised immune systems, who are sick, or pregnant.
Your veterinarian may advise against getting the Bordetella vaccine for dogs in these situations.
Even vaccinated dogs can get kennel cough from other sources, as it's not just caused by Bordetella. Other bacteria and viruses, including the parainfluenza virus, can also cause the condition.
The vaccine is not 100% effective, and dogs can still develop kennel cough even if they've had the Bordetella vaccine. This is because multiple viruses can contribute to the development of the illness.
Dogs with compromised immune systems or those exposed to kennel cough before receiving the vaccine may develop the illness in spite of vaccination.
The vaccine is low risk for animals who have previously been vaccinated without side effects, but the main risk is the dog developing a mild case of kennel cough.
Dogs with a history of severe vaccine reactions should not be vaccinated, and those with minor reactions should be vaccinated with caution.
The vaccine's effectiveness can vary depending on the type and administration, with some vaccines lasting for six months and others for a year.
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Vaccine Necessity
The Bordetella vaccine is a must for dogs that regularly interact with other dogs, such as those that attend dog parks, boarding facilities, dog daycare, training classes, or dog shows.
If your dog is at risk of contracting kennel cough, getting the Bordetella vaccine is in their best interest, as many facilities require proof of vaccination before allowing them on the premises.
The vaccine protects dogs against the Bordetella virus and kennel cough, but it's not a guarantee against getting the illness.
Dogs that are immunocompromised, currently sick, or pregnant may not be good candidates for the Bordetella vaccine, and their veterinarian should be consulted for advice.
The vaccine is usually administered annually, but boarding facilities may require a booster within the last six months.
The effectiveness of the vaccine is about six months, so annual vaccines don't provide adequate coverage, and the vaccine may not be effective if not stored or administered properly.
Dogs with compromised immune systems or those that were exposed to kennel cough before receiving the vaccine may still develop the illness.
Kennel cough is highly contagious and can be spread easily from dog to dog, so it's essential to get your dog vaccinated if they're at risk.
If your dog is frequently exposed to other dogs, even if it's just at the dog park, it's worth considering getting the Bordetella vaccine to protect them.
Vaccination Schedule and Frequency
The Bordetella vaccine is typically administered annually, although some boarding facilities or hospitals may recommend it every six months. This is especially true for dogs that frequent dog parks, boarding facilities, dog daycare, or attend training classes or dog shows.
Healthy adult dogs that come into contact with large groups of other dogs should have a Bordetella vaccine annually. This is a general rule of thumb, but it's always best to consult with your veterinarian to determine the best vaccination schedule for your dog.
The intranasal version of the vaccine is a common type, and it does not require a booster series in the first year. However, injectable vaccines should be given as a booster series the first time your dog is vaccinated.
Some boarding facilities may require a booster (re-vaccination) prior to the dog's stay, so it's essential to check with them beforehand. This is especially true if your dog is not current on their vaccine.
Dogs who have previously been vaccinated without side effects are at low risk for the vaccine, but those who have had a severe reaction should not be vaccinated.
Vaccine
The Bordetella vaccine is a must-have for dogs that come into close contact with other dogs. If your dog goes to dog parks, boarding facilities, dog daycare, or attends training classes or dog shows, they're at risk for contracting kennel cough.
The vaccine protects dogs against kennel cough and should be administered annually, although boarding facilities may require a booster within the last six months. The intranasal version of the vaccine is typically given yearly, but this can vary depending on the type of vaccine and your dog's individual needs.
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Many boarding facilities require dogs to come with proof of the Bordetella vaccination, so it's in your dog's best interest to get the vaccine for their health and extracurricular activities. If your dog is immunocompromised, currently sick, or pregnant, your veterinarian may advise against getting the Bordetella vaccine.
The vaccine is not a guarantee against kennel cough, as dogs can still develop the illness even if they were vaccinated. However, the condition is usually not serious and will resolve on its own, or with medication if necessary.
Any dog who routinely comes into close contact with other dogs should be vaccinated, including those that compete in shows or sports and service dogs. If your dog has underlying medical conditions or is currently sick, you should discuss the risks and benefits of the vaccine with your veterinarian.
The frequency of vaccinations depends on the type of vaccine, with some protecting dogs for six months and others for a full year. Intranasal vaccines do not require a booster series in the first year, while injectable vaccines should be given as a booster series the first time your dog is vaccinated.
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Sources
- AKC Rx (akcpetrx.com)
- disease can lead (msdvetmanual.com)
- How Frequently Should My Dog Be Vaccinated? (brookfarmveterinarycenter.com)
- Bordetella in Dogs: What is Kennel Cough? | Toledo Vets (shorelandanimalhospital.com)
- Can Dogs Get Kennel Cough If Vaccinated? (wagwalking.com)
- Does Your Dog Need the Kennel Cough Vaccine? (petmd.com)
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