Why Does My Dog Need the Bordetella and Flu Vaccines?

— By Dr. Juliana Lee, D.V.M. —

Respiratory infections in dogs are among the most common causes of illness in our pets. Dogs are exposed to respiratory diseases when they go for a walk and meet other dogs along the way, play with other dogs, or go to public parks, boarding or grooming facilities, stores, or veterinary clinics.  Any of these places may have recently had sick dogs coughing and spreading viral or bacterial pathogens that can lead to illness in your dog. These infections can range from just a mild, occasional cough to constant severe coughing, decreased appetite, lethargy, and the development of bronchitis or pneumonia.

Dog Kennel Cough Protection

Kennel Cough is a term that describes infectious bronchitis in dogs with a severe “goose honk” hacking cough that often sounds as if there is something stuck in a dog’s throat. It can last several weeks and can progress to more severe pneumonia in some cases. It is caused sometimes by just one bacterium or virus or can involve a combination of several different pathogens.

We only have vaccinations against the most common potential causes: Bordetella bronchiseptica and parainfluenza virus. Fortunately, by getting the Bordetella and parainfluenza vaccinations as recommended every six months, dogs can generally avoid the most severe symptoms or dangerous complications associated with Kennel Cough. Some vaccinated dogs will still show mild symptoms if other pathogens are involved in their individual infection and may require antibiotic or symptomatic treatment.

Dog Influenza Protection

Canine Influenza is a more severe cause of respiratory disease that is more likely to progress to pneumonia. It is generally less contagious than Bordetella and usually requires closer exposure to sneezing/coughing dogs, generally in a closed environment indoors, found at boarding facilities, indoor dog parks, groomers, and veterinary hospitals. If your dog is spending time in any of these locations, we also recommend annual vaccination against influenza.

We currently vaccinate against the two most common strains of flu that we see in dogs, but other strains may develop in the future, requiring newer additional vaccinations.

Luckily, there is no evidence that canine respiratory diseases can spread to people, so owners do not need to isolate their dogs currently. By vaccinating your dog against Bordetella and Influenza, you can prevent major respiratory infections from causing serious problems.