Reactions to Rabies Shots in Dogs

Rabies vaccines are a crucial part of protecting your dog's health. While most dogs are able to receive these vaccines without any severe side effects, the shot does occasionally cause more serious reactions.

  1. Common Side Effects

    • Many dogs experience fatigue, irritability, loss of appetite and resistance to being touched for one to three days after receiving a rabies shot. These symptoms are considered normal and are not a cause for concern.

    Skin Conditions

    • Less frequently, dogs may develop a rash, open sores or a small lump under the skin after a rabies vaccination. In rare cases, the shot may cause a cancerous growth known as fibrocarcinoma at the injection site.

    Anaphylactic Shock

    • Occasionally, rabies vaccines cause dogs to go into anaphylactic shock, which produces fever, facial swelling, heavy breathing, vomiting, diarrhea, unconsciousness and---if left untreated---death. If your dog has any of these symptoms after receiving a rabies vaccine, rush it to the vet immediately.

    Seizures

    • Rabies shots may also lower your dog's resistance to seizures. These may appear in the form of typical seizures, or they may cause obsessive behaviors like tail-chasing and erratic running.

    Exemptions

    • If your dog has an adverse reaction to a rabies vaccine, have your vet document the reaction thoroughly. You may be able to use this information to apply for a rabies shot exemption, which is a written waiver for exemption from receiving a rabies booster.