How Does The Bordetella Vaccine Work
Like all vaccines, Bordetella works by exposing your pet to a small dose of nonpathogenic bordetella bacteria either by injection or by nose drops. The intranasal vaccine usually contains a modified live parainfluenza virus and a strain of Bordetella that does not cause disease.
The vaccine can also be administered by injecting an inactivated bacteria into the body. The advantage of the nasal vaccine is that the nose is where most dogs will pick up the disease. The disadvantage of the nasal vaccine is that some pets develop a mild respiratory disorder, especially after the first vaccination.
The idea of a vaccine is that it introduces the body to a nonpathogenic virus or bacteria so that the immune system can recognize it and fight against it in the future. Once the body finds a new agent to fight, it begins to produce antibodies, a human or animal’s “weapon” against virus and bacteria.
“The Bordetella vaccine does not cover all strains of canine flu or upper respiratory infections,” cautions Dunbar. “It does cover the Bordetella bacteria, which is one of the most common causes of upper respiratory infections.”
The Bordetella vaccine is supposed to last up to six months but, according to Animal Planet, is only effective in about 70 percent of pets.
Discuss your pet’s immunization plan with your veterinarian to determine the best course of care.
Are There Other Ways To Prevent Dogs Contracting Kennel Cough
When considering a kennel, the first thing you should look for is whether they require all dogs to have the vaccination against kennel cough. Youll know this through the details youll have to provide yourself when applying for a place for your puppy.
If you take your puppy to kennels or day care they should check several specific factors, including their vaccination history. Its likely that they will insist on your puppy being vaccinated at this point, before they are allowed to stay.
This should ensure the virus does not enter into or spread in the vicinity. If only some of the dogs are vaccinated, the agents of the disease will spread and develop freely within the community. This means the risk of infection increases.
Other questions to ask the kennels or day care include what precautions they take with sick dogs, such as quarantine, and the protocols they have in place for cleaning and disinfection. Ensuring that you are aware of all of the processes in place will help to prevent your puppy from contracting kennel cough.
Herbs For Kennel Cough
Adding some herbs and spices into your dogs food can support his immune system to help prevent illness. Consider feeding some of these daily especially when he might be be stressed from something like traveling or meeting new dogs. The change of seasons can also weaken your dogs defenses just like ours!
Don’t Miss: How Often Do You Need Booster Vaccines
Kennel Cough Vaccine Effectiveness
The kennel cough is an infectious disease that has cold like symptoms. The kennel cough has no treatment, but the cough should typically go away even without treatment in up to 3 weeks. Puppies and immunocompromised dogs may have a more difficult time fighting the infection. There is however a kennel cough vaccine that may be administered to dogs. This vaccine can be effective, but not in 100% of cases.
Why Did My Dog Get Kennel Cough Even After Taking Getting The Vaccine
There is much confusion around the Kennel Cough vaccine. The vaccine can be referred to as Canine Cough, Bordetella, or Kennel Cough. The term Kennel Cough refers to a group of contagious symptoms of an upper respiratory infection and not one particular illness. While most veterinarians use a multivalent vaccine that offers protection from the bacteria Bordetella, as well as viruses parainfluenza and adenovirus, there are additional viruses and bacteria that can cause canine cough symptoms that the vaccine does not cover!
It is upsetting when your dog contracts an upper respiratory cough even after vaccination. It is possible that your dog may have come into a different contagious germ that the vaccine did not cover. Keep in mind that if the infection was a virus, antibiotics may not have offered much treatment, but probably addressed or prevented a secondary bacterial infection. The good news is the far majority of upper respiratory coughs are very mild and pups recover quickly, similar to the common cold in pet parents.
Also Check: How Often Should I Get The Shingrix Vaccine
Should I Vaccinate My Dog Against Kennel Cough
Some of the infections that can cause kennel cough are included in the basic vaccinations dogs need to have as a puppy, and subsequent boosters. These are canine adenovirus type two, canine parainfluenza virus, canine distemper, and canine influenza.
But the most common bacteria present in kennel cough is Bordetella bronchiseptica, which can be given as a separate vaccine through nasal drops or infection. However, as there are many strains of the infection, it cannot guarantee protection but at the very least should lessen symptoms. Vaccination is not useful in dogs already incubating kennel cough.
The nasal vaccine for Bordetella bronchiseptica can be given when your dog is as young as three weeks, with it providing protection for about 12 months. It takes four days for it to become effective, and is considered the fastest method of providing immunity.
Although protection is not guaranteed, many boarding kennels require dogs staying with them to have the Bordetella bronchiseptica vaccine.
Page last updated 19/10/2021
How Does A Dog Get Kennel Cough
Kennel cough is very contagious, and dogs can readily transmit it by casual contact such as sniffing each other when on a walk, playing, or sharing water dishes. Certain factors increase the likelihood that your dog may contract kennel cough including stress, cold temperatures, exposure to dust or smoke, and crowded conditions.
You May Like: Is Shingles Vaccine Available At Cvs
If You Havent Already Heard There Has Been A Kennel Cough Outbreak Around Feilding Over The Last Few Weeks
Unvaccinated dogs are getting hit hard, and even some vaccinated dogs are getting mild doses of the disease. This is likely to be because there are a large number of suspected infectious agents that can cause kennel cough, and vaccines are only available for the most common ones.
The name kennel cough is misleading its not just a disease of dogs visiting boarding kennels. Playing at the park, sniffing other dogs while on walks, even sniffing a post an infected dog has recently coughed on, can all result in infection.
Kennel Cough can be caused by a multitude of bacteria and viruses, not all of which can be covered by vaccines. The main infectious agents are the bacterium Bordetella bronchiseptica and the viruses Parainfluenza and Adenovirus-2.
Clinical signs of disease include coughing, sneezing, ocular discharge, retching, depression and fever. Dogs with pre-existing respiratory disease can become quite unwell. Treatment consists of antibiotics for the bacterial component, but only time and supportive care can get rid of the viral component.
Prevention remains the key! There are a choice of vaccines available, and the ones we use at the Feilding clinic are:
Canigen KC: this is an injectable vaccine for the dogs that are head-shy, have very small nostrils or object to the intranasal vaccine. It still provides good immunity, but needs a booster vaccination 4 weeks after the first if the dog hasnt had it before, then annually after that.
Is The Kennel Cough Vaccine Safe
Most vaccines these days are modified live vaccines. That means they bring risks for your dog. Modified live vaccines contain bacteria or viruses that have been altered so that they dont cause clinical disease. But they do stimulate the immune response.
The problem is modified live vaccines can also cause the disease they were meant to prevent. And research in humans shows they can embed themselves in the genes of the host. This happens with dogs too. It means the viruses can stay in your dogs body, then cause illness later sometimes even years later.
Veterinarian Patricia Jordan DVM also reminds us that vaccination of any sort elevates histamines. When histamine levels are high they cause chronic inflammation. Chronic inflammation can trigger other diseases as your dog ages.
And do you know why your daycare or boarding facility asks you to vaccinate your dog at least a couple weeks before he visits? Its because your dog can shed the live bacteria and virus for a up to 7 weeks after vaccination
So other dogs can catch kennel cough from your vaccinated dog even though your dog doesnt have the cough.
Don’t Miss: Where Can Get Hpv Vaccine
Can Dogs Get Kennel Cough From The Vaccine
There is a small possibility that the dog can develop Kennel Cough after the vaccine due to the introduction of a small number of bacteria, BUT it is extremely rare.
If your dog does happen to develop a Kennel cough soon after vaccination, the dog was most likely exposed to the bacteria before the vaccination had time to take effect.
Remember that a virus accompanies the bacteria bordetella in a lot of cases of kennel cough. So your dog could have picked up a virus before the vet administered the vaccine pushing it to the next phase of the illness.
Your dog could have even picked up the bacteria from going to the vet. This bacteria is extremely contagious, though it most often clears up on its own.
Your best bet is to keep your dog up to date on their core vaccines and the optional ones of your choosing.
How Much Do Dog Vaccines Cost
Its impossible to say exactly how much a vaccination will cost at your vets because prices vary year to year and between each individual practice. However, if you call a veterinary practice they will be able to tell you their current prices.
Many practices offer health plans which cover vaccinations and flea/worming treatments. This will usually be a monthly, or yearly, payment which makes it easier to budget for your dogs care. They can work out as a cost effective way to pay for your dogs routine healthcare needs and make sure theyre covered for everything they need. Speak to your vet to find out if they offer a health plan, what this includes and find out if it will be the best option for your dog.
You May Like: How Many People Die From Vaccines
What Is Kennel Cough
Kennel cough is an all-encompassing term used to depict a multitude of highly contagious respiratory illness. It is usually spread in areas where large numbers of dogs are confined, like kennels, which is how the disease got its name. Kennel cough itself is not fatal, but the disease can lead to fatal bronchopneumonia in puppies and chronic bronchitis in senior or immunocompromised dogs, according to the Merck Veterinary Manual, which is why it is important to assess whether or not your dog is at risk of catching the disease when deciding to vaccinate.
Kennel cough, scientifically known as canine infectious tracheobronchitis, is easily spread from dog to dog through aerosol droplets, direct contact, or contact with contaminated surfaces like food and water bowls, toys, or kennel runs a bit like how the common cold is spread in grade schools. Your dog is most likely to pick it up in an area where lots of dogs congregate, but he can also pick it up from any contaminated environment, and you can bring it home to him if you spend a lot of time around dogs at work or during volunteer opportunities.
Msd And The Msd Veterinary Manual
Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA is a global healthcare leader working to help the world be well. From developing new therapies that treat and prevent disease to helping people in need, we are committed to improving health and well-being around the world. The Veterinary Manual was first published in 1955 as a service to the community. The legacy of this great resource continues in the online and mobile app versions today.
Also Check: Where Can I Get A Measles Vaccine
What Does The Bordetella Vaccine Do
The Bordetella vaccine helps protect a dog against kennel cough specifically, against the Bordetella bronchiseptica bacterium.
Some versions of the vaccine also protect against other diseases, such as canine parainfluenza virus or canine adenovirus type 2. These versions are known as bivalent or trivalent . Your vet may have a preferred version based on risk factors in your area.
Unfortunately, it is possible for some vaccinated dogs to become infected with kennel cough. However, similar to the way the flu vaccine works in human beings, vaccinated dogs are more likely to have a mild illness rather than experiencing severe symptoms.
Are There Allergic Reactions To The Bordetella Dog Vaccine
In extremely rare cases dogs can have an anaphylactic response to vaccination. This is a severe allergic reaction characterized by swelling in the face, hives, vomiting, issues breathing, diarrhea, and itchiness in your dog. This reaction typically occurs within a few minutes or hours of your dog receiving the vaccine but it can occur as late as forty-eight hours following vaccination. If your dog is showing any of the symptoms of anaphylaxis after receiving the Bordetella vaccine, contact your emergency veterinarian as soon as possible.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet’s condition, please make an appointment with your vet.
Read Also: How Long Was The Hpv Vaccine Tested
Vaccinations For Adult Dogs: Boosters And Titers
Some people believe that too many dog vaccine pose health risks. However, others disagree and argue yearly vaccinations will prevent dangerous diseases. Such as distemper or coronavirus . You should talk with your vet to find out what kind of vaccine protocol works best for you both!
Rabies is a dangerous and often fatal disease that can impact any animal. But its especially critical for dogs, and dog vaccine is suitable for it. If your pup has never been vaccine against it before you administer its annual shot this year . Then they need to get test at least once with the titer test. As soon as possible after receiving their rabies vaccine so long as theres still time remaining on those dates. It might not seem like much now when were just talking about one little needle prick in between getting scoope up by some nasty mosquitoes who want nothing more than stealing our furry friends away from us.
And its all worth it. For your effort and care, the gratitude of a lifetime will be yours in return! Your new puppy is so happy to have found someone who can show her just what love means- from now until forevermore
As their physical form changes over time both you and I grow together too The bond between us only grows stronger with every passing day.
What Are The Most Common Reactions To The Bordetella Vaccine In Dogs
With any vaccine, mild adverse reactions are not only possible but to be expected. It may be somewhat upsetting to see your pet have a reaction to a vaccine, but it’s important to keep in mind that these reactions are generally very mild and quite short-lived. Knowing what to keep an eye out for in terms of vaccine reactions and what to do if your pup starts displaying more severe symptoms can help make the process of receiving a Bordetella vaccination less stressful for your pup and for you!
Lethargy
The most common reaction a dog will have to receiving the Bordetella vaccine is a feeling of malaise, lethargy or discomfort, often accompanied by a very mild fever. Many people would describe this feeling as “off.” This reaction is the immune system of your dog working to respond to the vaccine appropriately. These symptoms are quite normal and should only last one or two days. If your dog isn’t back to their normal levels of energy after a couple of days, contact your vet.
Lumps & Bumps
If your dog receives the injectable form of the Bordetella vaccine, lumps and bumps can occur, especially around the injection site. A small, firm bump may develop, as well as some tenderness and stiffness in the area. These bumps are the result of your dog’s immune system rushing in to fight irritation at the injection site.
Sneezing & Cold Like Symptoms
Serious Reactions to Vaccinations
Don’t Miss: Is There A Vaccine For Zika Virus
Protecting An Unvaccinated Puppy/dog
If your puppy/dog is unvaccinated, overdue a vaccine, or if they havent finished their primary vaccination course you will need to keep them safe by:
- Keeping them away from other unvaccinated dogs
- Dont let them walk on the ground in public spaces
- Avoiding high risk areas where there could have been rats, cows, foxes or other unvaccinated dogs
- Only allowing them in your garden if its secure from foxes and other unvaccinated dogs
Its very important for puppy to start their socialisation as early as possible.
Vaccination Required For Boarding Helps Prevent Kennel Cough
Planning a vacation or holiday away? Whether your pet travels with you or spends his days making new friends at your neighborhood boarding facility, he’ll need one important thing ahead of time: the Bordetella vaccine.
The Bordetella vaccine is a preventive measure to ward off a highly contagious bacterial illness that can be readily spread from dog to dog, cat to cat and dog to cat. Human transmission is also possible, so people who have a compromised immune system should avoid contact with infected animals.
Commonly referred to as kennel cough in dogs, Bordatella bronchoseptica infection isn’t typically a life-threatening illness but some pets develop complications of pneumonia from the disease. Kennel cough is often a complex disorder caused by a combination of canine parainfluenza virus and Bordatella bronchoseptica bacteria. Other respiratory virusus have also been implicated in this multi-agent disease.
Also Check: When Was Whooping Cough Vaccine Developed