When it comes to your pet’s health, understanding potential risks can help you make informed decisions. Bordetella bronchiseptica, often referred to simply as Bordetella, is a bacterium that commonly causes respiratory infections in dogs, including kennel cough. While Bordetella is often associated with dog boarding facilities, it’s important to know that this bacterium can pose risks in other environments, too. Whether you’re a new pet owner or an experienced one, understanding what is Bordetella and how it affects your dog can help keep them healthy.
What Is Bordetella?
Bordetella is a highly contagious bacterium that primarily affects the respiratory system. Dogs infected with Bordetella often develop a condition known as kennel cough, which is a combination of bacterial and viral infections. The bacteria can irritate the lining of the respiratory tract, causing inflammation, coughing, and other symptoms that may vary in severity. Bordetella can spread quickly, especially in areas where dogs are in close proximity. Dog parks, grooming facilities, training classes, and boarding kennels are common places where exposure may occur. While the infection is most often associated with dogs, it can sometimes affect cats and other animals, though this is less common.
How Does Bordetella Spread?
Bordetella spreads through direct contact with infected animals or contaminated surfaces. The bacteria are often present in respiratory secretions, which can be expelled through coughing, sneezing, or even barking. When an infected dog coughs, tiny droplets containing Bordetella bacteria become airborne, making it easy for other dogs nearby to inhale them. Indirect transmission is another concern. Shared water bowls, bedding, toys, or even the hands and clothing of pet owners can carry the bacteria. This is why high-traffic areas with limited sanitation are a hotspot for Bordetella outbreaks.
Preventive measures, like proper hygiene and vaccinations, play a significant role in minimizing the spread. Ensuring your dog is well-protected before entering communal environments is one of the best ways to reduce their risk.
What Are Signs of Bordetella Infection in Dogs?
Understanding the symptoms of Bordetella can help you identify an infection early. The most recognizable sign is a persistent, dry, hacking cough that sounds like something is stuck in your dog’s throat.
- Dry or honking cough
- Nasal discharge
- Sneezing
- Loss of appetite
- Low-grade fever
- Lethargy or decreased activity levels
While kennel cough is generally mild, certain cases can lead to complications, particularly in puppies, senior dogs, or those with weakened immune systems. Severe cases may progress to pneumonia, requiring immediate veterinary care. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian promptly for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
How Is Bordetella Diagnosed?
When your dog exhibits symptoms of a respiratory infection, your veterinarian will perform a thorough examination to determine the cause. Diagnosing Bordetella typically involves evaluating your dog’s medical history, symptoms, and environmental exposure. In some cases, diagnostic tests such as a nasal swab or tracheal wash may be performed. These tests allow your veterinarian to confirm the presence of Bordetella bacteria or rule out other potential causes of your dog’s symptoms. Early diagnosis can prevent the condition from worsening and reduce the risk of spreading the infection to other pets. If your dog has been in environments with other animals recently, sharing this information with your veterinarian can help speed up the diagnostic process.
How to Prevent Bordetella In Your Dog
While exposure can’t always be avoided, there are proactive steps you can take to reduce your dog’s risk.
- The Bordetella vaccine is one of the most effective ways to safeguard your dog. This vaccine is often required by boarding facilities, doggy daycares, and grooming salons to minimize the risk of outbreaks. The vaccine comes in injectable, intranasal, and oral forms, allowing pet owners to choose the best option for their dog.
- Regularly disinfecting shared surfaces and washing your hands after interacting with other animals can help limit the spread of bacteria.
- During peak outbreak seasons, minimizing your dog’s visits to high-traffic areas like dog parks and training classes can lower their chances of exposure.
- Preventive measures combined with routine veterinary care are the best approach to keeping your dog healthy and happy.
Can Humans Catch Bordetella?
Bordetella bronchiseptica is considered zoonotic, meaning it has the potential to infect humans. However, such cases are rare and usually occur in individuals with compromised immune systems. For most healthy individuals, the risk of contracting Bordetella from a dog is extremely low. Practicing good hygiene, such as washing your hands after handling your pet, can further minimize any potential risk. If you have concerns about zoonotic diseases, your veterinarian can provide guidance on how to keep both you and your pet safe.
What Should You Do If Your Dog Shows Symptoms?
If your dog begins showing symptoms of Bordetella, it’s important to act promptly. While mild cases may resolve on their own, there are some steps you can take to ensure your dog recovers well:
- Seeking veterinary advice ensures that your dog receives the appropriate care. Your veterinarian may recommend supportive treatments, such as cough suppressants or antibiotics, depending on the severity of the infection.
- Isolating your dog from other pets during their recovery can help prevent the spread of the bacteria.
- Never attempt to treat your dog at home without veterinary guidance, as improper care can lead to complications.
Whether it’s through vaccinations, proper hygiene, or recognizing early symptoms, proactive care can go a long way in preventing unnecessary discomfort for your pet. If you have questions about Bordetella or want to discuss your dog’s health, call All Kinds Veterinary Hospital at (301) 994-9919. Our team is here to help you provide the best care for your beloved pet.