Canine Bordetella/Kennel Cough: Canine Bordetella is one of the causes of the canine upper respiratory disease infectious tracheobronchitis or "kennel cough." It is a bacterial infection of the respiratory system characterized by severe coughing and gagging. It is a very contagious, airborne disease. Most cases appear after contact with other dogs in kennels, grooming parlors, pet stores, or parks. Symptoms of canine bordetella normally appear one week after the dog has been infected. The main symptom of the disease is a severe cough, which to you, may sound like your dog has something stuck in their throat. In some cases, dogs also develop pneumonia, which can be life-threatening. Vaccination can help prevent this disease with the first dose started at 6 weeks of age and a second dose given three weeks later.