Dog Allergic, Sick, Shaking, Lethargic After Vaccine

Vaccines for dogs are biological preparations that provide immunity against specific diseases. These vaccines contain antigens, which stimulate a dog’s immune system. The dog will then recognize and fight actual pathogens if encountered later. Common vaccines for dogs include those for rabies, distemper, parvovirus, adenovirus, leptospirosis, parainfluenza, and kennel cough (Bordetella bronchiseptica).

This article will outline common vaccine side effects in dogs, how to handle them, and how to prevent them.

Common Dog Vaccines

1. Rabies: Required by law in many places; it protects against the rabies virus.
2. Distemper: Protects against a highly contagious viral disease.
3. Parvovirus: Guards against a severe and potentially fatal viral infection.
4. Adenovirus (CAV-2): Protects against canine infectious hepatitis.
5. Leptospirosis: A bacterial infection that can affect dogs and humans.
6. Parainfluenza: Protects against a respiratory virus.
7. Bordetella: Often required for dogs in boarding facilities to prevent kennel cough.

Common Vaccine Side Effects in Dogs

Vaccines are designed to stimulate the immune system. As a result, some dogs may have mild side effects. These reactions often mean the vaccine is working and the body is mounting an immune response.

Common side effects associated with dog vaccinations include:

1. Mild fever
2. Lethargy or decreased activity level
3. Decreased appetite
4. Soreness or swelling at the injection site
5. Mild coughing or sneezing (after intranasal vaccines)

Allergic Reactions to Vaccines in Dogs

While rare, some dogs may experience an allergic reaction to a vaccine or one of its components. These reactions can range from mild to severe and may include:

• Hives or skin rash
• Facial swelling
• Difficulty breathing
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Collapse or loss of consciousness

When To Be Concerned About Vaccine Side Effects in Dogs

Most vaccine side effects in dogs are mild and resolve quickly. However, you should seek immediate veterinary attention, either through your vet who administered the vaccine or via a telehealth appointment, if your dog has persistent or worsening symptoms beyond 24-48 hours.

1. Severe lethargy or unresponsiveness
2. Difficulty breathing or swallowing
3. Profuse vomiting or diarrhea
4. Rapid or irregular heartbeat
5. Collapse or loss of consciousness
6. Seizures or neurological abnormalities

How to Handle Vaccine Side Effects in Dogs

If your dog experiences mild side effects after vaccination, there are several steps you can take to help manage their discomfort:

1. Provide rest: Allow your dog to rest and recuperate in a quiet, comfortable environment. Avoid strenuous activities or playtime until they have fully recovered.
2. Monitor their temperature: Keep an eye on your dog’s body temperature and contact your veterinarian if they develop a high fever.
3. Offer small, frequent meals: If your dog won’t eat, try their favorite treats.
4. Apply a cold compress: If the injection site is swollen or sore, it may help. Use it for short periods to reduce inflammation and discomfort.
5. Consult your veterinarian: If side effects persist or worsen, or if you have concerns, contact them for advice and treatment options.

Preventing Vaccine Side Effects in Dogs

While you can’t avoid vaccine side effects, you can take steps to reduce the risk. This will help your furry friend have a smoother experience.

• Follow vaccination schedules: Vaccination can reduce the risk of adverse reactions. So, stick to the recommended schedules for your dog’s age and lifestyle.
• Discuss your dog’s medical history: Inform your vet of any past reactions or conditions. This helps them tailor the vaccination protocol.
• Consider splitting vaccine doses: Your vet may suggest this to reduce side effects.
• Provide proper nutrition: Feed and hydrate your dog before and after vaccination. This helps their immune system and health.
• Avoid stress: Before and after vaccination, minimize your dog’s stress and anxiety. They can worsen side effects.
• Have pet insurance: Dogs’ side effects after vaccines show the unpredictability of medical needs and the potential costs associated with emergency veterinary care. That’s why having pet insurance can benefit you in this situation.

How Can Pet Insurance Help You if Your Dog Has Side Effects from Vaccinations?

Pet insurance can be a valuable tool in managing the costs of treating dog herniated discs and other veterinary expenses. By having a pet insurance policy in place, you can have peace of mind knowing that you can provide medical care for your furry companion without worrying about the financial burden. Pet insurance can help cover the costs of veterinary consultations, diagnostic tests, medications, and even specialized treatments if required.

What Does Odie Pet Insurance Cover?

Pet insurance covers various veterinary expenses, providing financial protection and peace of mind for pet owners. Here are the details of the coverage options offered by Odie Pet Insurance:

Illness & Injury Plan

The Illness & Injury Plan is an all-inclusive insurance plan designed to cover a wide range of medical needs for your pet. This plan includes comprehensive coverage for various illnesses, injuries, and veterinary services. Some of the covered items include:

• 24/7 Televet Chat
• Emergency vet visits
• Overnight hospital stays
• IV Fluids & Medications
• Medical Supplies
• Surgeries
• MRI/CAT Scans
• Rehabilitative Care
• Prescription Medications
• Gastrointestinal issues
• Laboratory Tests

Accident-Only Plan

The Accident-Only Plan is designed for pet owners seeking coverage specifically for accidents. This plan provides financial protection for emergency veterinary care resulting from accidental injuries. It includes 90% reimbursement up to $10,000 each year, with a $250 annual deductible. 

Here’s an overview of the Accident-Only Plan:

• Coverage for broken bones, sprains, eye injuries, and traumatic dental fractures.
• Coverage for wounds, including bite wounds, lacerations, snake bites, and bee stings.
• Veterinary treatments covered for accidental injuries include X-rays & ultrasounds, laboratory tests, emergency care, hospitalization, CT scan & MRI, and surgery.

The Wellness Add-on Plan

The Wellness Plan is an add-on for routine care coverage you can purchase with an insurance policy. It focuses on preventive care and covers routine veterinary services. Odie has two wellness plan options available: 

 Basic Plan:

• Covers services such as spay/neuter and teeth cleaning, rabies vaccination, flea & tick prevention, heartworm prevention, vaccination/titer, wellness exam, heartworm test or FELV screen, blood, fecal, parasite exam, microchip, urinalysis or ERD, and deworming.
• Reimbursement up to $305 per year.

Plus Plan:

• Ideal for puppies and kittens.
• Covers services such as spay/neuter and teeth cleaning, rabies vaccination, flea & tick prevention, heartworm prevention, vaccination/titer, wellness exam, heartworm test or FELV screen, blood, fecal, parasite exam, microchip, urinalysis or ERD, and deworming.
• Reimbursement up to $535 per year.