Taking the best care of your furry friends involves getting them the vaccines they need to resist common diseases and protect their immune systems. The Bordetella vaccine is an important immunization for social dogs that helps prevent kennel cough and other canine respiratory infections.
Our veterinary professionals at VetNaturally fully understand the proper dog vaccine schedules. During your dog’s annual exam in Mandeville, LA, we will determine whether they need the Bordetella vaccine or any other vaccinations.
But if you suspect your dog may be due for a Bordetella vaccine, or they have begun interacting with other dogs more frequently since their last appointment, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Why Your Dog Needs a Bordetella Vaccine
The Bordetella vaccine gives your dog immunity against Bordetella bronchiseptica, which is a bacterial agent that commonly causes kennel cough and other upper respiratory infections.
However, understand that Bordetella and kennel cough are not the same things. Bordetella is simply one of the causes of kennel cough.
The symptoms and treatments of kennel cough can vary in severity, but dogs often experience symptoms such as:
- Extensive, dry coughing
- Sneezing
- Nasal discharge
- Eye discharge
- Fever
- Decreased appetite
Bordetella is a non-core vaccine, which means not every dog needs a Bordetella vaccine. We typically recommend it for dogs that are commonly around other dogs, such as those who go to dog parks, daycares, or groomers frequently (many of these facilities will require Bordetella vaccination to be up to date to provide certain services).
Our veterinary staff will talk to you about whether a Bordetella vaccine is right for your dog and help you make an informed decision about their health and immunization.
Risks of Canine Respiratory Infections
Bordetella is a highly contagious bacterial agent. It spreads through the air and through droplets, meaning your dog can quickly catch it from another dog when in close proximity. That’s why the respiratory infection it causes is called kennel cough — dogs often pick it up from other dogs while staying in a kennel or boarding facility.
While kennel cough can often lead to some uncomfortable symptoms for your dog, this infection is usually very treatable. We typically prescribe antibiotics to prevent secondary infections and cough medicine to suppress the cough while a dog is recovering.
Still, certain dogs may be at a higher risk of experiencing severe effects from a Bordetella infection. Puppies, senior dogs, and immunocompromised dogs could require more aggressive treatment, making it extra important that these dogs receive a Bordetella vaccine.
We may also recommend this Bordetella vaccine during kennel cough outbreaks in Mandeville, LA. When kennel cough becomes more prevalent, your dog is at a higher risk of catching it from any other dog they encounter.
Bordetella Vaccine Side Effects
Some immunizations can lead to mild side effects in your furry friend, so it’s always important to weigh the pros and cons before administering a vaccination.
The most common side effect of the Bordetella vaccine is a feeling of lethargy. Some dogs experience a mild fever and minor coughing and sneezing.
Very rarely do dogs have an allergic reaction to the Bordetella vaccine, leading to symptoms like vomiting, issues breathing, hives, or swelling of the face.
Bordetella Vaccine Schedule
Puppies can receive the Bordetella vaccine between the ages of six and eight weeks, followed by a booster four weeks after the first dose. Adult dogs can receive their first dose at any time.
Dogs typically need a booster form of the injection every six to 12 months depending on their level of exposure. If your dog attends a boarding facility, it may require your furry friend to receive a booster every six months.
VetNaturally: Your Pet Is in Good Hands
The Bordetella vaccine plays an integral role in preventing kennel cough in dogs, particularly those that frequently encounter large groups of other dogs. Do you think your dog could benefit from a Bordetella vaccine dose or booster?
Contact VetNaturally today at (985) 718-9991 to learn more about our Mandeville Bordetella vaccinations and speak with a vet about whether your dog needs this vaccine.
