Yes, it is generally recommended to vaccinate your dog for kennel cough, particularly if they are social, visit boarding kennels, groomers, dog parks, or training classes. While not always mandatory, the vaccine significantly reduces the risk of infection and minimizes symptom severity if they do contract the disease.

Does my dog really need kennel cough vaccine?

Kennel cough is always a risk whenever you have dogs get together. The bordetella vaccine is used to prevent kennel cough so it would be best to have your pet up to date on their vaccines. Some veterinary hospitals require the vaccine biannually (such as us at LPAH) and some require it annually.

When should a dog be vaccinated for kennel cough?

Kennel cough vaccination is usually given at the same time as the usual puppy and booster vaccinations but it can be given on its own if necessary.

Can a dog still get kennel cough even if he's vaccinated?

Yes, they can absolutely get kennel cough even though they were vaccinated. The vaccination only prevents about 10% of all strains. It could also be an upper respiratory infection. Get thee to a vet.

How long is a contagious kennel cough?

A dog with kennel cough is contagious from exposure until about 10-14 days after symptoms disappear, but can remain a carrier for weeks or even months; it's safest to isolate them from other dogs for at least two weeks after they stop coughing to prevent spread, as some dogs shed the virus silently. The infection is highly contagious and spreads through respiratory droplets and contaminated surfaces, so keeping sick dogs away from others is crucial. 

How Often Should My Dog Get The Kennel Cough Vaccine? - Ask A Pet Vet

Can I still cuddle with my dog with kennel cough?

Yes, you can cuddle your dog with kennel cough for comfort, as it's not easily spread to humans, but you must isolate them from other dogs, wash your hands thoroughly after handling them, and change your clothes to prevent spreading it to other pets. Focus on rest and extra snuggles for your sick pup, but be cautious about transmitting the highly contagious virus between dogs via hands or clothing, notes this video on kennel cough. 

What breeds are prone to kennel cough?

All breeds and ages are susceptible. As the name "kennel cough" suggests, dogs at particular risk are those exposed to settings where multiple dogs are typically gathered or housed, such as kennels, shelters, and daycare facilities.

What are the first signs of kennel cough?

The earliest signs of kennel cough (Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease) usually start with a sudden, persistent, dry, "honking" cough, often described as sounding like your dog is trying to clear their throat or gagging, sometimes with frothy white phlegm. Other early indicators include sneezing, a runny nose or eyes, mild lethargy, and sometimes a low fever or decreased appetite, though the cough is the hallmark symptom, especially after recent contact with other dogs.
 

Does the vaccine fully prevent kennel cough?

The Bordetella vaccine is highly effective at preventing kennel cough. However, there's always a risk of breakthrough infection—meaning that even when a dog is vaccinated, they may still develop kennel cough. This is very uncommon and, even in these instances, vaccination reduces the risk for severe, lengthy symptoms.

What is the 3 2 1 rule for vaccines?

The "3-2-1" rule is a guideline for monitoring lumps at feline vaccination sites, indicating a lump needs veterinary investigation if it's still present 3 months after vaccination, is larger than 2 cm, or is growing larger 1 month after appearing. This rule helps identify potentially dangerous injection-site sarcomas, rare tumors that can develop in cats, prompting biopsies for suspicious masses. 

Are Bordetella and kennel cough the same thing?

Bordetella. 'Kennel Cough' is the term that was commonly applied to the most prevalent upper respiratory problem in dogs in the United States. Recently, the condition has become known as tracheobronchitis, canine infectious tracheobronchitis, Bordetellosis, or Bordetella. It is highly contagious in dogs.

Which dog vaccines are absolutely necessary?

Absolutely necessary dog vaccines (core vaccines) protect against deadly, common diseases and include Rabies, Canine Distemper (D), Adenovirus (Hepatitis - H), Parainfluenza (P), and Parvovirus (P), often combined as DHPP or DAPP, plus Leptospirosis, depending on location/risk. These are essential for all dogs due to the severity and prevalence of these illnesses, with Rabies often legally required.

How do you get rid of kennel cough without going to the vet?

Kennel cough is not a condition which can be cured, but its symptoms can be alleviated. One of the best ways to do so is to allow the dog to rest, and continue the use of honey and coconut oil for at least ten days. There are no harmful risks associated with these natural methods if given at the correct doses.

Should I vaccinate my dog against kennel cough?

Does my dog need a kennel cough vaccination? Kennel cough vaccination is not a 'core' vaccination, as it is rare that a dog becomes very unwell. However, because of the rapid spread, many places where dogs gather such as kennels, groomers and doggy daycares require attending dogs to have the vaccination.

How contagious is kennel cough if my dog is vaccinated?

It is important to remember that the vaccines don't prevent infection or prevent a dog from spreading one of the pathogens. However, vaccines do decrease the duration and severity of illness. The one exception is the canine distemper vaccine, which does actually help prevent a dog from being infected.

Can a dog recover from kennel cough on its own?

Yes, mild cases of kennel cough often go away on their own within 1 to 3 weeks, but it's crucial to see a vet for diagnosis and to rule out severe issues like pneumonia, especially for puppies, seniors, or immunocompromised dogs, as complications can arise, and professional care with cough suppressants or antibiotics may be needed for quicker recovery. 

What are the red flags for kennel cough?

The primary sign to look out for is a deep hacking cough, which can sometimes lead to retching, sneezing, snorting, gagging or vomiting. In some cases, you may only notice your dog starting to cough after excitement or exercise and you may also notice a discharge coming from your dog's eyes or nose.

What triggers kennel cough in dogs?

These include stress caused by crowded environments, exposure to heavy dust or cigarette smoke, cold temperatures and poor ventilation. Kennel cough has an incubation period of two to 14 days, and some dogs can be carriers of the infection for months without developing symptoms.

---