The Bordetella shot is a vaccine given to dogs to protect them from kennel cough, which is a highly contagious disease among dogs caused by the Bordetella virus. Kennel cough is easily spread from one dog to another, especially in areas dense with other dogs, such as doggy daycare, the groomers, the dog park, and boarding facilities. The Bordetella vaccine is given to both puppies and adult dogs, and it comes in two forms: an intranasal spray that your vet will administer in your dogs nose, and an injection. The intranasal version of the vaccine is typically administered annually, although boarding facilities or hospitals may recommend it every six months. Puppies should receive the injectable version of the Bordetella vaccine between the ages of six to eight weeks. They should then receive a second injectable booster four weeks later, or between the ages of 10 to 12 weeks. Adult dogs should receive a booster form of the Bordetella vaccine every six to twelve months, depending on the risk factors for the dog. The Bordetella vaccine is generally safe, but dogs may experience mild side effects such as malaise, lethargy, or discomfort, often accompanied by a very mild fever. Lumps and bumps can also occur around the injection site if the dog receives the injectable form of the vaccine.