When you vaccinate your dog against Bordetella, you want to know what to expect. Many pet owners wonder if the Bordetella oral vaccine can make dogs sleepy. Understanding the vaccine’s effects helps you care for your dog after vaccination and recognize normal reactions versus concerning symptoms.

This article explores the potential side effects of the Bordetella oral vaccine, focusing on sleepiness. We’ll explain why some dogs might feel tired, how to support your pet’s recovery, and when to contact your vet. You’ll gain confidence in managing your dog’s health after vaccination.

What Is the Bordetella Oral Vaccine?

The Bordetella oral vaccine protects dogs from kennel cough, a contagious respiratory infection. It is given by mouth, making it easy and stress-free for dogs compared to injections.

This vaccine helps prevent coughing, sneezing, and other symptoms caused by Bordetella bronchiseptica bacteria. It is commonly recommended for dogs that spend time in boarding facilities, dog parks, or grooming salons.

• The oral vaccine stimulates the immune system to fight Bordetella bacteria without causing illness, helping your dog build protection safely.

• It is non-injectable, reducing the risk of injection site reactions like swelling or pain.

• The vaccine is usually given as a single dose, with boosters recommended yearly or before exposure to high-risk environments.

• It is suitable for most healthy dogs over 8 weeks old, but your vet will advise based on your dog’s health and lifestyle.

Knowing what the vaccine is and how it works sets the stage for understanding its side effects, including any impact on your dog’s energy levels.

Common Side Effects of the Bordetella Oral Vaccine

Like all vaccines, the Bordetella oral vaccine can cause mild side effects. These reactions are usually short-lived and not serious.

Common side effects include mild digestive upset or temporary changes in behavior. These effects reflect your dog’s immune system responding to the vaccine.

• Mild diarrhea or soft stools may occur because the vaccine is administered orally and interacts with the digestive tract.

• Some dogs may experience slight vomiting, which usually resolves quickly without treatment.

• Temporary loss of appetite can happen as your dog’s body adjusts to the vaccine.

• Occasionally, mild sneezing or coughing may occur if the vaccine slightly irritates the respiratory tract.

These side effects generally last less than 48 hours. If symptoms persist or worsen, contact your veterinarian promptly.

Can the Bordetella Oral Vaccine Make Dogs Sleepy?

Sleepiness or lethargy after vaccination is a common concern for dog owners. It’s natural to wonder if the Bordetella oral vaccine causes this effect.

While sleepiness is not a primary or common side effect of the Bordetella oral vaccine, some dogs may appear more tired than usual for a short time after vaccination.

• Sleepiness can result from your dog’s immune system activating to build protection, which uses energy and may cause temporary fatigue.

• Some dogs feel mild discomfort or mild digestive upset after the oral vaccine, leading them to rest more than usual.

• Individual dogs vary in their response; some may show no change in energy, while others might be quieter or less playful for a day.

• If your dog is very sleepy or lethargic beyond 24-48 hours, this could indicate a reaction or unrelated illness requiring veterinary attention.

Overall, mild sleepiness is possible but usually brief and not a cause for alarm after the Bordetella oral vaccine.

How to Care for Your Dog After Bordetella Oral Vaccination

After your dog receives the Bordetella oral vaccine, you can take simple steps to support their comfort and recovery.

Providing a calm environment and monitoring your dog closely helps you spot any unusual reactions early and ensures your pet feels safe and cared for.

• Offer fresh water and encourage your dog to drink to stay hydrated, especially if mild digestive upset occurs.

• Provide a quiet, comfortable resting area where your dog can relax without stress or disturbance.

• Feed a light meal if your dog’s appetite is reduced, but don’t force eating if they are not interested initially.

• Observe your dog for any signs of worsening symptoms such as persistent vomiting, diarrhea, or extreme lethargy, and contact your vet if needed.

These care steps help your dog recover smoothly and minimize any discomfort after vaccination.

When to Contact Your Veterinarian

Most dogs tolerate the Bordetella oral vaccine well, but it’s important to know when to seek veterinary advice.

If your dog shows severe or prolonged symptoms, prompt veterinary evaluation ensures proper care and rules out other health issues.

• If your dog is extremely lethargic, unresponsive, or difficult to rouse, this may signal a serious reaction needing urgent care.

• Persistent vomiting or diarrhea lasting more than 48 hours can lead to dehydration and requires veterinary support.

• Signs of allergic reaction such as swelling of the face, difficulty breathing, or hives need immediate emergency attention.

• If your dog develops a high fever or shows signs of pain or distress after vaccination, contact your vet for assessment.

Timely veterinary care helps keep your dog safe and healthy after vaccination.

Preventing Bordetella Infection Beyond Vaccination

Vaccination is a key step in protecting your dog from Bordetella, but other preventive measures also reduce infection risk.

Combining vaccination with good hygiene and management practices helps keep your dog healthy in social settings.

• Avoid exposing your dog to crowded places or kennels during outbreaks or when your dog’s immunity is low.

• Regularly clean and disinfect your dog’s living and play areas to reduce bacteria spread.

• Practice good hand hygiene after handling other dogs or visiting public dog areas to prevent transmission.

• Keep your dog’s vaccinations up to date according to your veterinarian’s recommendations for ongoing protection.

These steps complement vaccination and support your dog’s respiratory health.

Conclusion

The Bordetella oral vaccine is a safe and effective way to protect your dog from kennel cough. While it can cause mild side effects, significant sleepiness is uncommon but possible for a short time.

By understanding what to expect and how to care for your dog after vaccination, you can help your pet recover comfortably. Always monitor your dog closely and contact your veterinarian if you notice concerning symptoms. Together, these actions keep your dog healthy and happy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Bordetella oral vaccine cause sleepiness in all dogs?

Not all dogs become sleepy after the vaccine. Some may feel a bit tired due to immune response, but many show no change in energy levels.

How long does sleepiness last after the Bordetella oral vaccine?

Any sleepiness usually lasts less than 24 to 48 hours as your dog’s body adjusts to the vaccine and builds immunity.

Is it normal for my dog to lose appetite after the Bordetella oral vaccine?

Yes, mild loss of appetite is common and typically resolves quickly. Offer small meals and fresh water to support recovery.

When should I worry about my dog’s reaction to the Bordetella vaccine?

Seek veterinary care if your dog is very lethargic, has persistent vomiting or diarrhea, difficulty breathing, or swelling after vaccination.

Can I give my dog other vaccines at the same time as the Bordetella oral vaccine?

Often, vets can administer multiple vaccines during one visit, but they will advise based on your dog’s health and vaccination history.