What is Bordetella?

What is Bordetella?

Bordetella is a name that comes up often when discussing the vaccinations a dog must-have. Specifically, bordetella is a respiratory illness that occurs when dogs inhale a type of bacteria named bordetella bronchiseptica.

This bacteria disrupts normal respiratory functions and causes breathing issues. While it is easily treatable, when left untreated, bordetella can evolve into a serious problem.

Bordetella vs kennel cough

Sometimes, people use the terms bordetella and kennel cough interchangeably, but the truth is, they are two different things. Like bordetella, kennel cough is a respiratory illness. It leads to a persistent cough, along with a runny nose and sneezing. Kennel cough may be a part of bordetella, meaning, bordetella can trigger kennel cough. Note that other things may trigger kennel cough like the canine distemper virus.

Symptoms

The symptoms of bordetella are usually mild. They include:

  • Dry cough
  • Sneezing
  • Runny nose
  • Fever
  • Eye discharge

Most pups are able to recover from Bordetella with ease largely due to immunization. Younger, older, and immunocompromised dogs are more susceptible to the worst of the condition.

If left untreated, bordetella can turn into pneumonia and feature rapid or strained breathing, wheezing, deep heavy coughing, decreased appetite, lethargy, weight loss, and fever. It can also become fatal very quickly.

Transmission

Bordetella spreads from one dog to another through particles in the air. This happens when an uninfected dog walks in the same airspace where an infected dog had coughed a few moments earlier. This is especially common in enclosed, poorly-ventilated spaces like boarding kennels, doggy daycares, and even clinics.

Prevention

The only way to truly prevent bordetella is to get your dog vaccinated. This can take place via a shot, or intranasally, or through nose drops. While it is considered a non-core vaccine, it’s a good idea if your dog spends a lot of time with other dogs.

Treatment

Treatment for bordetella includes antibiotics and a lot of fluids to keep the body hydrated. Your vet may also do a chest X-ray to see what’s going on inside your dog’s lungs. There are also over-the-counter and holistic options available, but be sure to consult your vet before giving your dog any non-prescription medication.

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