Clients of the Animal Medical Center may have noticed a change in the frequency for their dog’s Bordetella vaccination reminder. Previously, reminders were sent every 6 months. Now, like most other vaccinations, reminders will be sent annually. So why the change?

What does the Bordetella vaccine protect against?

You might know Bordetella vaccine as the kennel cough vaccine. However, the Bordetella bacteria is just one cause of the kennel cough respiratory disease complex. Many infectious agents – both bacterial and viral – can be responsible for kennel cough. Other kennel cough-related vaccines include vaccines against parainfluenza and canine influenza.

What was the previous NYC requirement for Bordetella vaccination?

The previous Bordetella vaccination requirement was confusing because there were two separate sets of guidance. Training facilities, grooming parlors and boarding kennels in NYC tended to require the Bordetella vaccine every 6 month. However, this requirement did not match the vaccine manufacturer’s label, which recommended annual vaccination.

What is the new NYC requirement for Bordetella vaccination?

The new law [17-366] says owners of dogs entering training facilities, grooming parlors and boarding kennels must comply with the NYC Health Code. The NYC Health Code [161.15(e)] says dogs must be actively vaccinated against Bordetella. Active vaccination means in compliance with the manufacturer’s instructions, which currently indicate annual revaccination.

However, it is always a good idea to confirm the vaccination requirements for any training facility, grooming parlor or boarding kennel whose services you may need.

Does my dog need any other vaccines for boarding, grooming or training?

The short answer is yes. The Health Code [161.15(e)] requires active vaccination against distemper, adenovirus, parainfluenza and parvovirus. New York City also requires a rabies vaccination for any dog over 3 months of age. To provide proof of vaccination at a training facility, grooming parlor or boarding kennel, ask your veterinarian for a vaccination certificate.

If you want more information about kennel cough in dogs, check out the AMC’s Usdan Institute Pet Health Library entry on kennel cough.