Bordetella Shots for Dogs

Bordetella shots help protect dogs from what veterinarians commonly call kennel cough. Bordetella vaccinations are especially important for dogs that stay at boarding facilities, or for dogs purchased from dog pounds, since exposure to other dogs increases the risk of contracting kennel cough.

Significance

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, the bordetella shot helps protect dogs from contracting the bordetella bronchiseptica bacteria. This bacteria causes a respiratory infection that causes chronic coughing and nasal discharge.

Types

There are two types of bordetella vaccinations. Pet owners can choose between a nasal vaccination administered as a liquid nasal spray or an injection administered with a syringe.

Necessity

Pet owners who frequent dog parks, enroll their pet in doggie day care or expose their dog to a large number of other dogs should get their dog the bordetella shot.

Schedule

Puppies should receive the shot between six to eight weeks of age and a booster shot at 10 to 12 weeks of age. Protection is short-term, so bordetella is an annual shot.

Warnings

Dogs that accidentally receive the intranasal bordetella vaccination as an injection are at risk for a severe abscess, liver failure and even death.

References

• American Veterinary Medical Association
• Mar Vista Animal Medical Center

Resources

• Canine Diseases and Vaccinations