As a responsible pet owner, one of your top concerns is the health and well-being of your furry friend. One of the most important steps you can take is to make sure your pet is up to date on their vaccines. One vaccine that every dog owner should be aware of is the kennel cough vaccine. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about this important vaccine.
What is the kennel cough vaccine?
The kennel cough vaccine is a vaccine that protects your dog against a highly contagious respiratory disease called Bordetella. Bordetella is the most common cause of kennel cough, which is why the vaccine is often referred to as the kennel cough vaccine. The vaccine works by stimulating your dog’s immune system to produce antibodies against the Bordetella bacteria.
What is kennel cough?
Kennel cough is a highly contagious respiratory disease that affects dogs of all ages and breeds. It is caused by several different viruses and bacteria, including Bordetella, parainfluenza virus, and canine adenovirus. The most common symptoms of kennel cough are persistent coughing, sneezing, and a runny nose. In severe cases, kennel cough can lead to pneumonia or other secondary infections.
When should I vaccinate my dog?
Most veterinarians recommend vaccinating your dog against kennel cough at least two weeks before exposing them to potential sources of infection, such as boarding kennels, dog parks, or doggy daycare facilities. The vaccine is typically given as a nasal spray or an injection and can be administered on its own or as part of a combination vaccine.
What are the different types of kennel cough vaccines?
There are several different types of kennel cough vaccines available, including:
- Injectable vaccine
- Intranasal vaccine
- Oral vaccine
What is an injectable kennel cough vaccine?
An injectable kennel cough vaccine is administered by injection and is typically given as part of a combination vaccine that protects against other common diseases, such as distemper and parvovirus. The vaccine usually requires two doses given two to four weeks apart, followed by yearly boosters.
What is an intranasal kennel cough vaccine?
An intranasal kennel cough vaccine is a nasal spray that is squirted into your dog’s nostrils. It is typically administered as a single dose and provides rapid protection against Bordetella bacteria. However, it may not provide long-lasting immunity, so yearly boosters may be necessary.
What is an oral kennel cough vaccine?
An oral kennel cough vaccine is a newer type of vaccine that is given by mouth. It is typically administered as a single dose and provides rapid protection against Bordetella bacteria. However, like the intranasal vaccine, it may not provide long-lasting immunity, so yearly boosters may be necessary.
What are the risks and benefits of the kennel cough vaccine?
Benefits
The benefits of the kennel cough vaccine are clear. By vaccinating your dog, you are protecting them from a highly contagious and potentially dangerous respiratory disease. This can help prevent the spread of the disease to other dogs and reduce the risk of secondary infections such as pneumonia.
Risks
As with any vaccine, there are some risks associated with the kennel cough vaccine. The most common side effects are mild and include soreness at the injection site, sneezing or coughing, and mild fever. More serious adverse reactions, such as allergic reactions, are rare but can occur in some dogs.
Conclusion
The kennel cough vaccine is an important tool that every dog owner should be aware of. By vaccinating your dog against Bordetella, you can help protect them from a highly contagious respiratory disease and reduce the risk of secondary infections. Talk to your veterinarian about which type of vaccine is best for your dog and their lifestyle.
Common Questions and Answers
- What is the kennel cough vaccine called? The kennel cough vaccine is sometimes referred to as the Bordetella vaccine.
- Is the kennel cough vaccine required by law? The kennel cough vaccine is not required by law, but it is highly recommended for dogs that are regularly exposed to other dogs, such as those that go to boarding kennels or doggy daycare facilities.
- How often should my dog be vaccinated? Vaccination schedules vary depending on the type of vaccine, your dog’s age, and their lifestyle. Your veterinarian can recommend an appropriate vaccination schedule for your dog.
- Can my dog still get kennel cough if they’ve been vaccinated? Yes, it is possible for your dog to still get kennel cough even if they’ve been vaccinated. This is because there are multiple viruses and bacteria that can cause kennel cough, and the vaccine may not provide complete protection against all of them.
- Can humans get kennel cough from their dogs? While kennel cough is primarily a disease of dogs, it is possible for humans to contract the disease in rare cases. However, the risk of transmission from dogs to humans is very low.
References:
1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Kennel Cough: Frequently Asked Questions. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/healthypets/pets/dogs/kennel-cough.html
2. American Kennel Club. (2021). Kennel Cough in Dogs: Symptoms, Causes, and Prevention. Retrieved from https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/kennel-cough-symptoms-causes-treatment/
3. Banfield Pet Hospital. (2021). Kennel Cough (Bordetella) Vaccine for Dogs. Retrieved from https://www.banfield.com/pet-healthcare/additional-resources/article-library/preventive-care/kennel-cough-bordetella-vaccine-for-dogs