FAQ
Vaccinations
DGB requires annual and up-to-date veterinary proof of Rabies, Distemper, and Bordetella vaccinations.
Your pet’s health and safety is our number one priority. Proper vaccination protects your pet from illnesses. Due to the nature of our cage-free facility, we are unable to accept any pet without proof of vaccines. Immunizations work by helping to prevent not only the contraction of an illness, but its spread throughout a community. By keeping your pet up to date on required vaccinations, you help protect your pet, our facility, and the health of all pets in our care.
DGB promises to always provide the cleanest, safest environment possible - however, no vaccine can guarantee your pet’s immunity in any environment or facility.
What is Bordetella?
Bordetella Bronchiseptica is the most common bacteria that causes Canine Cough, also known as “Kennel Cough”. However, Parainfluenza or Adenovirus may also cause sickness to an animal that is not properly vaccinated.
These bacteria are similar to the “common cold” for humans. They cause irritation in the dog’s throat that can cause coughing for 7-21 days after exposure to the bacteria.
How is Bordetella transmitted?
Even in the cleanest environment or facility Bordetella can exist. Bordetella is an airborne bacteria, so unvaccinated animals in a confined, densely populated area will be most susceptible. Bordetella can also be transmitted by direct contact such as licking, sharing water or toys, and nuzzles, similar to humans catching a cold from sharing an elevator or airplane with a sick person.
How does DGB maintain a clean and safe environment?
DGB prides itself on the use of professional-grade, superior cleaning products. Throughout our doggie-occupied day, DGB uses pet-safe disinfecting products for the air, floors - because accidents happen - water bowls, and all surfaces regularly utilized by our furry friends.
After each day, we repeat these cleaning techniques from ceiling to floor with deep-cleaning, disinfecting products, similar to products many hospitals use to avoid spread of infection and disease.
Is Canine Influenza or “Dog Flu” the same as Bordetella?
No. However, Canine Influenza is similar to Bordetella in that it is a respiratory infection.
There are two strains of “The Dog Flu”, H3N2 and H2N8. Preventative vaccines for both strains of Canine Influenza were approved in 2009 and 2015.
At this time DGB is not requiring proof of the Canine Influenza vaccine - however, we strongly recommend you talk to your veterinarian about the risks and benefits for your pet, especially those who frequent social and high contact environments such as dog parks, kennels, boarding facilities, daycare, or even grooming facilities like DGB.
My vet says my puppy is still too young for the Rabies vaccine. Can he still visit DGB?
Yes. As long as your puppy has had his full set of boosters of Distemper and Bordetella he can visit DGB for grooming. DGB will ask to see proof of his Rabies vaccine as soon as he is old enough to receive it.