Pet parents like you are always finding ways to keep your dog safe. The standard vaccines that they get are typical for them, such as their vaccinations for rabies and the like. However, one vaccine in particular that you may be interested in is the Bordetella vaccine. What is it exactly, and is it worth needing?
That determination can be made by your veterinarian depending on certain factors. For example, if you have plans of using doggy daycare services or boarding facilities if you are away, it may be a good idea to consider this vaccine for your dog. More importantly, you’ll need to know the reasons why it is necessary.
What Makes the Bordetella Vaccine so Important for Pet Owners?
While it’s not one of the core vaccines required for your dog, the Bordetella vaccine is highly recommended for pet parents with dogs who may be spending time in other places where other dogs might be. These places include kennels, daycares, training facilities, groomers, and so on. The vaccine itself is considered a protective measure against Bordetella bronchiseptica or “kennel cough.” This bacterium is spread amongst such areas where dogs gather.
Simply put, facilities where dogs typically frequent and gather will require proof of vaccination, especially the Bordetella vaccine. Nevertheless, it is important to make sure you are keeping your dog protected against “kennel cough” and other illnesses. Even if you don’t plan on using certain services like kennels, it could be a good idea to include the vaccine if you are planning on spending time together at dog parks.
What Exactly Is Bordetella?
As mentioned, Bordetella bronchiseptica, or “kennel cough,” is a respiratory infection that is contagious. Thus, it is important to make sure your dog is protected from it if they are typically around other dogs that are not your own. With this in mind, you will need to know the symptoms so you can be able to determine if kennel cough may be something they are dealing with. This includes the following:
- A “honking” sound while they are coughing persistently (think about what a goose would sound like, and a dog’s cough sounds similar to it)
- A runny nose that can feature mucus that is yellowish or clear in color
- Frequent sneezing (assuming your dog doesn’t have any allergies that have been diagnosed)
- Watery or thick eye discharge
- Loss of appetite, which is common in most dog-related illnesses
- Lethargy
- Mild fever
Keep in mind that some severe symptoms may also occur. They include symptoms such as wheezing, vomiting, diarrhea, or difficulty breathing. If you notice these serious symptoms, it may be wise to consult with a vet as soon as possible.
How Is the Bordetella Vaccine Given to Dogs?
The Bordetella vaccine can be given to your dog through a few different approaches. It may also be at the recommendation of your veterinarian. Here are the following available options:
- Traditional injection under the skin (injectable Bordetella vaccine)
- Nasal spray directly into the nose (intranasal vaccine)
- Oral vaccines
Each method has different considerations, although their intent is the same. If your dog doesn’t sit well with needles, the nasal spray or oral approach may be the best option. At the end of the day, your vet decides which is the best option and why.
Which Dogs Usually Get the Bordetella Vaccine?
One of the major things to point out is that not all dogs get the same vaccine (outside of the required core ones). The reason for this is that the lifestyle varies from one dog to another. As such, your dog may be highly recommended for the Bordetella vaccine if:
- They regularly participate in dog daycare or group training classes
- Visit the boarding facilities whenever you are traveling elsewhere
- Spend regular time at grooming salons
- Regular visits to the dog park
- Participate in social events with other dogs or compete with other dogs
Simply put, if your dog is spending regular time around other dogs (excluding other dogs you may have), it may be ideal to consider a regular schedule for the Bordetella vaccine. However, if they tend to live quieter lives and don’t interact with others outside of the home (which may be the ultimate form of preventive care), then there is no need for the vaccine to be administered in the first place.
How Often Do Dogs Need the Vaccine?
Like any other vaccine, a schedule can be followed to ensure your dog is up to date, including the Bordetella vaccine. On average, you can expect to follow a schedule ranging anywhere from 6 to 12 months. The timing may depend on certain facilities where dogs are typically present. For example, some facilities may require a vaccination every six months (otherwise, a year is sufficient).
As such, your veterinarian may also have the best recommendations or guidance if you’re in doubt about how often your dog should be vaccinated. In addition, it’s important to make sure you keep track of your dog’s vaccination schedule so you can plan ahead and be ready to give your dog the updates they need. Life can get in the way, and we tend to forget about our dog’s updated vaccines, which is why keeping track of each one as best as possible is highly recommended.
Are There Any Adverse Reactions to Worry About?
Mild adverse reactions are possible, as they usually are with other dog vaccinations. Specifically with this vaccine, your dog may experience slight drowsiness, some sneezing (if the intranasal spray was applied), or tenderness at the injection site. These side effects don’t last a long time, and your dog will be their usual selves in minutes. Still, it never hurts to monitor your pet after their appointment and provide them with additional comfort. A simple, quiet rest with a cozy blanket may be the best option.
What Are Some of the Best Ideas for Supporting Your Dog’s Health
Vaccines can only do so much when it comes to supporting your dog’s health. However, it’s not the only approach. At Under The Weather, we do our part to offer plenty of foods and supplements that all support your dog’s health. Here is a look at some of the items we offer:
- Bland Diet Meals: If your dog has some stomach sensitivities or if a healthier diet is part of the plan, a bland diet meal featuring proteins like chicken or beef, along with veggies like carrots, can be an excellent option.
- Disc and Spine Chews: You may have a dog who is older and may also be dealing with mobility issues. If you have breeds that are susceptible to disc and spine conditions, you can start a bit earlier and offer them regular helpings of our Disc and Spine chews that can help them stay mobile even in their older years.
- Collagen Chews: Your dog's joints can deteriorate over time to the point where their mobility is affected. Under The Weather’s “Collagen Chews” can be great for improving your dog’s joint health, and they’ll experience excellent mobility, especially when they are seniors.
Keep in mind that these options are not medical treatments. If you are planning on changing up your dog’s diet or even considering the idea of introducing certain supplements, it’s always a good idea to consult with your vet first and foremost. Also, when introducing them to your dog, it is important to make sure that you provide them with a small amount to start before gradually moving forward.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Before wrapping this up, you might have some additional questions that may apply to your dog’s health and the Bordetella vaccine. Let’s take a look now at the following frequently asked questions that are often asked by pet parents:
Can My Dog Still Get Kennel Cough Even After Getting Vaccinated?
While Bordetella vaccinations considerably lower the risk, your dog can still contract kennel cough. As such, the symptoms will usually be milder than normal and won’t last a long time.
How Early Can a Puppy Get the Bordetella Vaccine?
Puppies can begin receiving the Bordetella vaccine as early as 6 to 8 weeks of age. Of course, like any other vaccine, it may come down to whether the vet recommends it at that age range or not. If your dog hasn't been vaccinated as a puppy, adult dogs can still get the vaccine for the respiratory illness regardless of age.
Under the Weather: Extra Support for Your Dog’s Immune Health
The Bordetella vaccine is not one of the core vaccines all dogs get. However, it is highly recommended that you consider this when your dog will typically be around other dogs in different environments. Nevertheless, taking the necessary protective precautions can make a huge difference. Under The Weather also recommends supporting your dog’s health through a well-balanced diet and regular supplementation that makes them feel their best regularly. Check out what we have in stock for your four-legged friend today.
