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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!

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on August 4th, 2018

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! 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!

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