This article was approved by Lemonade’s favorite vet, Dr. Stephanie Liff.
Protecting your furry friend from illnesses is a top priority for any pet owner. The average cost of the Bordetella vaccine in 2024 ranges from roughly $19 to $60 per dose.
The Bordetella vaccine is considered a “non-core”, or nonessential vaccine for dogs, but can still be beneficial depending on your pet’s lifestyle. If you have a social pup who enjoys going to doggy daycare, spends time in boarding facilities, or goes to training classes, the Bordetella vaccine can keep them safe from contracting kennel cough.
Let’s explore everything you need to know about the Bordetella vaccine, including its importance, cost, and potential side effects.
What is Bordetella?
Bordetella, also known as Bordetella bronchiseptica, is a bacterium responsible for causing kennel cough in dogs. Kennel cough is a highly infectious respiratory disease that spreads through contact with contaminated surfaces or airborne droplets. According to Lemonade’s vet expert, Dr. Liff, “Kennel cough can be caused by Bordetella, but not every kennel cough is caused by Bordetella.”
Dogs at higher risk include those frequently visiting dog parks, boarding facilities, or animal shelters.
Symptoms of Bordetella infection are similar to a cold in humans and can include:
- A persistent cough
- Sneezing
- Nasal discharge
- Lethargy
In severe cases, the infection can lead to pneumonia, especially in puppies, older dogs, and those with weakened immune systems. Treatment typically involves antibiotics and rest, but prevention through vaccination is the best approach.
How does the Bordetella vaccine work?
Similar to other dog vaccinations, the Bordetella vaccine works by stimulating your dog’s immune system to recognize and fight off the Bordetella bacteria. The vaccine is available in three forms:
- Injectable vaccine: Administered via a shot, this method is often combined with other vaccines.
- Intranasal vaccine: Given as a nasal spray, this method provides local immunity in the respiratory tract.
- Oral vaccine: Administered by mouth, this form is convenient and less stressful for dogs who dislike shots.
The decision on which administration method is best for your pup should be made by you and your vet. According to Lemonade’s vet expert Dr. Liff “Some vets may choose to use an intranasal vaccine because it often has more broad spectrum coverage for preventing illness, however, this may only be relevant in specific situations, like the pet’s lifestyle. Additionally, some pets will not tolerate oral or nasal vaccination and would benefit from injectable vaccination.”
Regardless of the method, the vaccine prepares your dog’s immune system to combat the bacteria effectively, reducing the risk of kennel cough.
Each method introduces a small amount of the bacteria into your dog’s system, prompting an immune response without causing the disease.
Other non-core vaccines, given based on the risk factors of the dog—like their lifestyle—could include Leptospirosis, Lyme vaccine, and Canine influenza. The essential, or “core” vaccines your pup will need include Rabies and DHPP (distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, and parainfluenza).Â
How much does the Bordetella vaccine cost?
On average, you can expect to pay between $19 and $50 per dose for the Bordetella vaccine. Some veterinary clinics may offer the vaccine as part of a wellness plan or vaccination package, which can help reduce costs.
The cost can also vary on several factors, including:
- Where you live
- Whether it is administered at a veterinary clinic or a low-cost vaccination clinic
- If it’s part of a vaccination package
How often do dogs need the Bordetella vaccine?
The frequency of Bordetella vaccination depends on your dog’s lifestyle, risk level, and recommendations from the Department of Health for your state. Generally, the vaccine is recommended annually for most dogs. However, dogs at higher risk, such as those frequently boarding or attending doggy daycare, may benefit from more frequent boosters every six months.
Puppies can receive their first Bordetella vaccine as early as six to eight weeks of age. After the initial dose, they will need boosters to maintain immunity. Always consult with your veterinarian to determine the best vaccination schedule for your dog’s specific needs.
Does pet insurance cover the cost of the Bordetella vaccine?
Yes, pet insurance can usually include wellness coverage for vaccinations, including the Bordetella vaccine, when they’re administered or supervised by a licensed vet. But the specifics will depend on the coverages you chose when signing up.
When you include the Puppy/Kitten Preventative Care Package on your Lemonade Pet policy, for example, your puppy will be eligible for coverage on up to six vaccines a year—which could include the initial Bordetella vaccine and boosters.
This package could also help cover the costs associated with microchip implantation, spay/neuter procedures, heartworm prevention, flea and tick prevention, heartworm tests, and more.
For adult dogs, Lemonade’s Preventative Care or Preventative+ Package also includes up to three vaccinations per year, which could help cover the costs of the Bordetella vaccine.
What are the potential side effects of the Bordetella vaccine?
The Bordetella vaccine is generally safe, but like any medical treatment, it can have side effects. Most dogs experience mild and temporary reactions, such as:
- Sneezing
- Nasal discharge
- Lethargy
- Mild fever
- Drooling
- Nausea
In rare cases, dogs may have an allergic reaction to the vaccine. Symptoms of a severe reaction include:
- Facial swelling
- Difficulty breathing
- Vomiting
If you notice any of these symptoms after your pup received the Bordetella vaccine, contact your veterinarian immediately or take your pet to the closest emergency vet. Remember that the benefits of protecting your dog from kennel cough via vaccination far outweigh the potential risk of side effects.
Before we go…
Investing in pet insurance early in your pup’s life can help provide your fur fam with extensive coverage—from core vaccines, to unforeseen accidents and illnesses as they grow up into adult dogs.
Did you know that at Lemonade Pet you can cover your pooch with dog insurance from the time they’re two months old?
Click below to get your quote started today.
FAQs
Can my dog still get kennel cough if vaccinated?
Yes, while the Bordetella vaccine significantly reduces the risk, no vaccine is 100% effective. Vaccinated dogs may still contract a milder form of kennel cough.
Is the Bordetella vaccine necessary for all dogs?
It’s highly recommended for dogs that interact with other dogs frequently, such as those in doggy daycare, boarding, or parks. Depending on the daycare or boarding facility you choose for your pup, the Bordetella vaccine may be required.
For dogs with low exposure, it can still be beneficial for the rare occasions where your pup may come into contact with another infected dog. Always consult your vet to determine if the vaccine is right for your pooch.
How long does the Bordetella vaccine take to become effective?
The intranasal Bordetella vaccine typically takes about 48 to 72 hours to become effective, making this method of administration the quickest to take effect. If the vaccine is administered by an injection or orally, it can take up to two weeks to become fully effective.
Can the Bordetella vaccine be administered with other vaccines?
Yes, the Bordetella vaccine is often administered at the same time as other vaccines, such as the DHPP, during routine vet visits to ensure comprehensive protection.
Is there an age limit for the Bordetella vaccine?
Puppies can receive the vaccine as early as ten to twelve weeks of age. There is no upper age limit, but older dogs should be assessed individually by a vet.
A few quick words, because we <3 our lawyers: This post is general in nature, and any statement in it doesn’t alter the terms, conditions, exclusions, or limitations of policies issued by Lemonade, which differ according to your state of residence. You’re encouraged to discuss your specific circumstances with your own professional advisors. The purpose of this post is merely to provide you with info and insights you can use to make such discussions more productive! Naturally, all comments by, or references to, third parties represent their own views, and Lemonade assumes no responsibility for them. Coverage and discounts may not be available in all states.
