Intranasal Bordetella Vaccine Facts

Kennel cough, also known as bordetella, is a highly contagious respiratory infection that can affect dogs. It is often caused by a virus or Bordetella bronchiseptica bacteria. The vaccine to prevent kennel cough can be given through an intranasal spray.

  1. Administration

    • The vaccine is contained in a small tube. Like a saline nasal spray the tube is inserted partway into the dog's nose and then compressed to spray the nasal membranes with the vaccine.

    Benefits of Intranasal

    • The intranasal bordetella works fast at giving dogs immunity from kennel cough. This is because it goes directly into the mucus membranes of the nose.

    Age Given

    • Puppies as young as 3 weeks can be given the intranasal bordetella vaccine. Immunity wears off after about 10 to 12 months.

    Side Effects

    • There are only minor side effects associated with this vaccine. These include a runny nose and sneezing.

    When to Give the Vaccine

    • This is not a vaccine that necessarily needs to be given to every dog. If you take your dog to dog parks or a kennel then the vaccine is recommended and may even be required before kenneling.