Bordetella Vaccine in Dogs: Side Effects & When to Call Vet

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Hey there, dog parents! Let’s talk about the Bordetella vaccine.

If you’ve ever taken your pup to a dog park here in Austin, boarded them at a local spot like Austin Pets Alive, or signed up for a doggy daycare, you’ve probably been asked about the Bordetella vaccine. It’s that quick nose spray or shot that helps protect your furry buddy from kennel cough. But let’s be real—when your vet mentions “side effects,” it’s easy to worry. What’s normal? When should you call the vet? And why does your dog need this anyway?

Don’t sweat it. By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly what to expect after your dog gets the Bordetella vaccine, how to keep them comfy, and when it’s time to reach out for help. Let’s dive in!

Common Side Effects: The “Meh” Stuff

Most dogs handle the Bordetella vaccine like champs. Think of it like when you get a flu shot—maybe your arm feels sore for a day, but it’s no big deal. For dogs, the usual stuff includes:
– A little sneezing or a runny nose (especially if they got the nasal spray version)
– Tiredness, like they just finished a long hike at Barton Creek
– Mild swelling where the shot was given

Take Max, a fictional Aussie mix from South Austin. After his vaccine, he sneezed a few times and took an extra-long nap. By the next morning? Back to chasing squirrels. That’s typical! These reactions usually vanish in 24-48 hours.

When to Call Your Vet: The “Uh-Oh” Signs

Okay, let’s talk rare-but-serious stuff. Allergies can happen, just like some humans react to peanuts or bee stings. Watch for:
– Swelling around the face or hives (like bumpy mosquito bites)
– Throwing up or diarrhea that won’t quit
– Trouble breathing—imagine your dog trying to bark with a stuffy nose, but way worse

If your dog acts like this, call your vet ASAP. For example, if Luna, a fictional Lab from Round Rock, started scratching her face nonstop and seemed dizzy after her vaccine, her owners would need to rush her in. Better safe than sorry!

Helping Your Pup Feel Better

Most dogs just need a little TLC. Here’s how to help:
– Let them rest (skip the dog park for a day or two)
– Keep them hydrated—maybe add some low-sodium chicken broth to their water
– Use a warm compress on sore spots

At PetProCares, we’ve seen plenty of pups bounce back quickly. One of our clients, a terrier named Buddy, was back to stealing socks in his Northwest Austin home within a day. Just keep an eye on them and stick to their normal routine as much as possible.

Why This Vaccine Matters (Even With the Side Effects)

Kennel cough spreads faster than gossip at a PTA meeting. Places where dogs hang out—like daycare, grooming salons, or even your favorite Austin trail—are hotspots. The vaccine isn’t perfect, but it’s like a seatbelt: it reduces risk.

Sure, side effects can be annoying, but they’re usually minor compared to a full-blown kennel cough case. Imagine your dog coughing for weeks versus a day of sneezes. Most vets (and PetProCares agrees!) think it’s worth it.

Wrapping It Up

So, here’s the deal: The Bordetella vaccine is super common and generally safe. Most dogs have mild reactions, like sneezing or tiredness, that go away fast. Serious issues are rare but worth watching for. And yeah, even though side effects can happen, the protection it offers is a big win for your dog’s health.

Next time you’re at Zilker Park or dropping your pup off for a bath, you’ll know exactly what to expect. And if you’re ever unsure? Your vet (or the team at PetProCares) is just a call away. Keep those tails wagging!

Need a quick checklist for vaccine days? The American Kennel Club has a great guide, or grab ours at petprocares.com!