Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!
Become a member today!
Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
Become a credit card member today!Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
when you use Petco Pay!APPLY NOWLearn More About Petco Pay Benefits
What is the Bordetella vaccine for dogs and is it really necessary?
Updated on September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Female | unspayed | 8 lbs
I'm a little confused on what exactly a Bordetella vaccine does? My dog already got one in June and 1 in July I'm supposed to go back again this month. I said yes to it because my roomate has 5 other dogs and at the vet they said if shes going to be around more dogs. Was it nessecary to get the Bordetella vaccine? My roomate takes her out to the park with the other dogs once in a while but it's always all of them together no other dogs.Thank you!
4 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Answered By Laura Johnson VMD
Veterinarian
Published on August 4th, 2018
The Bordatella vaccine is used to prevent ONE cause of Kennel Cough caused by the bacteria Bordatella Bronchiseptica. Most boarding facilities, doggie day cares and groomers require it as it is contagious between dogs. If Nina goes to these places or goes to dog parks or plays with other dogs a lot then it is recommended to give. It is an elective vaccine though, meaning it is your choice. Living with 5 other dogs is a risk if one of them gets it some where. Kennel cough isn't deadly just annoying to you and the dog because the cough is very loud. Since you started the vaccine I would finish it can decide next year whether you want to continue it.
Good luck!
2Pet Parents found this answer helpfulRelated Answers from Veterinarians
Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Published on September 5th, 2017
She can still get Kennel cough even with this vaccine although it does usually reduce the chances of getting it and when a dog is vaccinated but still catches the disease, it is usually milder as well. this disease usually resolves without treatment within a couple weeks but if the cough is too severe it is recommended to go to the vet in order to get cough medicine and antibiotics.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT
Licensed Veterinary Technician
Published on June 28th, 2019
Sometimes, the Bordatella vaccine can cause mild symptoms of kennel cough. These will usually resolve on their own in a few days. Monitor for lethargy, fever, discharge or worsening cough. These are symptoms that should be addressed by your veterinarian.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Laura Johnson VMD
Veterinarian
Published on September 25th, 2017
Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!
The bordatella vaccine is a vaccine to prevent a bacteria that can cause kennel cough. It is not a treatment for kennel cough or an upper respiratory infection.
Upper respiratory infections can be caused by viruses or bacteria. She may need an antibiotic.
I hope this helps! Good luck!1Pet Parents found this answer helpful