Kennel Cough Vaccine

Kennel cough is a highly contagious respiratory infection in dogs. Just as humans can catch a cold or flu, your dog can contract kennel cough when exposed to certain viruses and bacteria.

Fortunately, there is a vaccine available to help prevent kennel cough and protect our beloved canine companions.

Whether your dog has yet to be vaccinated, or needs their kennel cough vaccine booster, our team of vets can help prevent them from contracting and passing on kennel cough.

Contact us about getting your dog vaccinated against kennel cough!

What is kennel cough?

Kennel cough, also known as canine infectious respiratory disease or canine infectious tracheobronchitis, is characterised by a persistent cough that can be accompanied by gagging or retching. It's similar to the common cold in humans and typically not life-threatening for healthy dogs. However, in puppies, elderly dogs, or those with weakened immune systems, kennel cough can lead to complications such as pneumonia.

The most commonly involved bacteria in a kennel cough infection is Bordetella bronchiseptica bacteria, and the most commonly involved virus is canine parainfluenza virus.

Kennel cough spreads through airborne respiratory droplets or direct contact with infected dogs or contaminated surfaces. Kennel cough spread is common in environments where they come into close contact with other dogs, such as boarding kennels, dog parks, or shelters – hence the name, kennel cough.

The importance getting your dog vaccinated

Vaccination plays a vital role in preventing kennel cough and reducing its spread within the dog population. And while it can't cure a kennel cough infection, it can prevent it from spreading to other dogs as well as reducing the severity and duration of symptoms.

If a vaccinated dog contracts kennel cough, they will typically experience milder symptoms and recover more quickly than unvaccinated dogs.

While most healthy dogs will recover easily from kennel cough, it's essential for dog owners to vaccinate and keep up to date with boosters as if your dog passes kennel cough onto a puppy or elderly dog, or even a dog undergoing treatment that will give them a weakened immune system, it can make them incredibly sick.

How does the kennel cough vaccine work?

The kennel cough vaccine is typically delivered via injection, but occasionally by a nasal spray.

When the vaccine is administered, the dog's immune system recognises these antigens as foreign invaders and mounts a response by producing antibodies specific to these pathogens.

This immune response then helps to provide protection against future exposure to kennel cough, reducing the likelihood and severity of the infection.

Effectiveness the kennel cough vaccine

The effectiveness of the kennel cough vaccine can vary depending on the dog's age, overall health, vaccination history, but in general the vaccine is considered highly effective at reducing the risk of kennel cough.

Coverage of the kennel cough vaccine lasts around 12 months, which is why we recommend that your dog receives a yearly kennel cough booster.

Kennel Cough Vaccine FAQs

How much do you charge for the kennel cough vaccination?

At Orchard House, we charge £53.50 for the kennel cough vaccine, however, if you choose to have it as part of your yearly booster, both jabs will only cost you £90.00. Both of these options qualify for the 20% Well Pet Club discount.

Can my dog only catch kennel cough at the kennels?

While kennels are one common place where dogs can contract kennel cough due to the close proximity of many dogs, it's not the only location – and this is why you may also hear kennel cough referred to as canine infectious cough.

It's essential to remember that dogs can catch kennel cough in any environment where they come into contact with an infected dog or contaminated surfaces.

Is the bordetella vaccination different from the kennel cough vaccination?

No, the bordetella vaccine is the same as the kennel cough vaccination. Bordetella bronchiseptica is one of the bacteria commonly associated with kennel cough, so the vaccine is designed to protect against it, along with other pathogens and viruses that can cause the illness.

Will the kennel cough vaccination make my dog unwell?

Generally, the kennel cough vaccination is unlikely to make your dog feel unwell. However, as with any vaccine, a few unlucky patients may experience mild side effects.

A serious illness as a result of the vaccine is incredibly rare, but if you are concerned, either before or after your dog receives their vaccine, don't hesitate to get in touch with our team.