Why Do Dogs Need the Shot Called Bordetella?

Dog parks are places where organisms can be easily transmitted from one dog to another.

Among the long list of normally recommended vaccinations for dogs is the Bordetella vaccine. Bordetella is a highly contagious respiratory condition quite common in places where dogs tend to congregate. Owners of dogs frequenting kennels, grooming parlors and dog training facilities should give serious thought to getting their dog vaccinated against this respiratory condition.

Identification

Bordetella, also commonly known as ''kennel cough'' or ''canine infectious tracheobronchitis,'' is an upper respiratory condition affecting dogs caused by several different organisms. The parainfluenza virus, Bordetella bronchiseptica, and mycoplasma are the most common agents known to cause this contagious respiratory disorder. Bordetella is a disease found worldwide and known to be the most prevalent upper respiratory condition found in dogs in the United States, according to Drs. Foster and Smith in an article on the Pet Education website.

Effects

Bordetella may cause fever and loss of appetite.

One of the main reasons why the Bordetella vaccination is recommended is because it can be a very frustrating condition to deal with that can also bring complications. Typically, symptoms include a loud, honking cough often followed by retching, a behavior that often leads owners to believe that something got stuck in their dog's throat. While Bordetella is generally a self-limiting disease, there are however cases where dogs may become lethargic, develop a fever and even suffer from pneumonia, according to Pet Place veterinarians.

Expert Insight

Expect your favorite kennel to ask for proof of vaccinations including Bordetella.

Another reason why the Bordetella vaccination is recommended is because many facilities may require it. For instance, proof of the Bordetella vaccination may be required at kennels or other group situations such as obedience classes.

Considerations

While no vaccine is capable of protecting dogs against diseases completely, the Bordetella intranasal vaccine is used in most kennels to safeguard dogs from this respiratory disorder. One important factor to consider is that the vaccine will not take effect immediately. In order to be effective, owners should plan to get their dog vaccinated at least a minimum of four to seven days prior to being in contact with other dogs, according to Drs. Foster and Smith.

Warning

While in the past infectious tracheobronchitis was not believed to pose a health risk for humans, it now appears that Bordetella bronchiseptica may cause symptoms in humans with compromised immune systems and young children. The latter categories should avoid coming into contact with dogs affected by infectious tracheobronchitis, according to Drs. Foster in Smith.

References

• Pet Education: Bordetella in Dogs
• Pet Place: Infectious Tracheobronchitis (Kennel Cough)
• Sun Lakes Animal Clinic: Bordetella Vaccination