Does Bordetella Vaccination Shield Against Kennel Cough?

Is it still possible for dogs to contract kennel cough despite having received the Bordetella vaccine? Yes, because kennel cough can be caused by various bacteria and viruses, such as the parainfluenza virus, that are not covered by the Bordetella vaccine. Consequently, even if your dogs have been vaccinated against Bordetella, they can still potentially develop kennel cough if exposed to these other infectious agents. Therefore, it’s crucial for dog owners to familiarize themselves with the symptoms of kennel cough and remain vigilant, as vaccination against Bordetella alone may not provide complete immunity against all potential causes of the illness. This information was last updated on July 6, 2017.

How effective is the Bordetella vaccine in preventing kennel cough? To answer this question, it’s essential to consider the results of research studies. One significant study involving 972 dogs examined the effectiveness of the kennel cough vaccine, revealing that it reduced coughing by approximately 20% when compared to a placebo vaccine. However, it’s crucial to note that another study highlighted an intriguing finding: between 40% to 60% of dogs diagnosed with kennel cough had a history of vaccination. This information suggests that while the vaccine can provide some protection against kennel cough, breakthrough cases among vaccinated dogs are not uncommon. Further research and understanding of the vaccine’s efficacy and the factors influencing its effectiveness are needed to address this complex issue comprehensively.

Can the Bordetella vaccine completely eliminate kennel cough? While no vaccine can provide absolute protection due to variations in the viruses and bacteria causing kennel cough in different cases, there are vaccines specifically designed to safeguard against the most frequently implicated culprits. These include the Canine parainfluenza virus and the Bordetella bronchiseptica bacterium, which are the primary offenders commonly associated with kennel cough. However, it’s important to note that the effectiveness of the vaccine may vary depending on the specific strain of the virus or bacteria encountered.