Dog Vaccination Complications

Vaccinations were created to protect humans and animals from much dreaded diseases and, in many cases, save lives. Rabies, leptospirosis, parvovirus (distemper) and kennel cough are just a few of the diseases that dogs are inoculated against. Complications from canine vaccinations, however, are not unheard of. Some dogs have been known to react severely just after receiving a vaccination or up to several weeks following vaccination.



The many possible complications of vaccinations can also be symptoms indicative of other medical or emotional conditions. Unless you are dealing with a general malaise in your dog--the dog is simply is not feeling good--it is wise to consult your veterinarian to determine whether your pet's symptoms are the result of a more serious problem.

  1. Itching &Licking

    • Excessive licking can be a complication of vaccinations.

      Itching of the skin, excessive licking of the paws and licking the air are all signs that something is bothering your dog. Often it can be an allergic reaction to something the dog may have come in contact with or ingested. It also can be a side effect from having received a vaccination.

    Vomiting

    • Vomiting in dogs is common. If your dog throws up, but otherwise seems alert and well, it probably is not something to be concerned about. As a complication of vaccination on its own, vomiting should pass. If accompanied by a fever or other symptoms, however, consult your vet.

    Epilepsy or Seizures

    • Signs of seizures in dogs can be as subtle as briefly staring off into space to the unmistakable falling down, involuntarily trembling, foaming at the mouth and becoming rigid. Witnessing your dog having a convulsion, or seizure, can be very frightening. Just keep the dog quiet, comfort it and, when it passes, immediately contact your veterinarian for expert advice.

    Anaphylaxis

    • Anaphylaxis is a rare and extremely dangerous condition caused by a severe reaction to something that your dog has eaten or been injected with. Symptoms that your dog may be suffering from anaphylaxis are respiratory distress, irregular heartbeat, diarrhea, facial swelling and severe itching. If you suspect that your dog is having an anaphylactic reaction, get treatment swiftly to keep the dog from going into shock. Shock can lead to heart attack and even death.

    IMHA

    • IMHA stands for "Immune Mediated Hemolytic Anemia." Though the rise in cases of IMHA following vaccination is slight, there have been enough documented cases for a need of awareness. IMHA is a condition where the dog's immune system attacks its own red blood cells. Symptoms of IMHA that can be recognized are that the dog has a lack of energy, loss of appetite and pale or yellow gums.

    Lumps &Hives

    • A lump may form at the point of vaccination. It may be filled with fluid (seroma) or perhaps infected puss (an abcess). In the case of an abcess, medical treatment should be sought. Hives, on the other hand, are bumps all over the dog's body. They can be excessively itchy and very discomforting. Again, your veterinarian is the best one to determine the cause and cure.