Vaccine Spotlight: Bordetella

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Kennel Cough is a broad name given to a condition typically seen in dogs. It tends to occur in pets that have either been boarding or around a lot of different dogs in a confined space. There are a variety of bacteria and viruses that can lead to kennel cough. One of the most common is bacteria named Bordetella bronchiseptica. The bacteria can be easily spread through secretions such as saliva or nasal discharge and then becomes airborne. When in the air it is very difficult to treat and eliminate with a normal cleaning regimen.

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One way to help keep your pet safe is by vaccinating against the bordetella bacteria. There are actually three different types of vaccines and depending on your pet, your veterinarian will choose the best option. There is an injection, a vaccine that is squirted in the nose, and a vaccine that is squirted in the mouth. As with any vaccine, this is not 100% effective. There are many things that can lead to an outbreak of kennel cough and a vaccine does not guarantee that your pet will not come down with kennel cough. However it is possible that after being vaccinated the course of the infection can be shortened. It is similar to when humans get the flu shot. It is not guaranteed you will not get the flu but the hope is that your symptoms will not be as severe or last as long as an un-vaccinated individual.

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Most of the time kennel cough is identified by a dry honking cough. Check out this website that has great videos of dogs coughing. In mild cases no treatment may be needed, however you do need to isolate your dog from other animals as it is HIGHLY contagious. If the coughing is severe antibiotics and cough suppressants may be prescribed. Rarely it can become severe and turn into a pneumonia type condition and require hospitalization, however this is not common at all.

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If your pet is ever coughing, it is best to have them checked by a veterinarian as there are many things, other than bordetella, that can lead to a persistent cough.