Pain from Canine Vaccines

Just as there are vaccines available to protect you from disease, there are also canine vaccines available to protect your dog. Your veterinarian can advise you about which vaccines your dogs needs and also prepare you for your dog's reaction to them, which can include symptoms like pain, listlessness and allergic reactions.

  1. Canine Vaccines

    • In canine vaccines, your dog is given antigens of dangerous canine diseases like parvovirus, distemper and rabies. These antigens closely resemble the causes of these diseases, which stimulate your dog's immune system to develop protections against the diseases. This both protects your dog from developing diseases in the future and better enables it to fight off the diseases if it does contract them. Most vaccines are administered through injections at your veterinarian's office, according to the ASPCA.

    Normal Reactions

    • The American Veterinary Medical Association says it is normal for your dog to react to being given a canine vaccine. The injection could cause pain and the injections site might remain sore and tender for a few days. Mild swelling at the injection site can contribute to your dog's discomfort. Other common reactions to vaccine include running a slight fever, decreased appetite and lack of energy. These symptoms should fade in a day or two.

    Adverse Reactions

    • Some dogs experience adverse reactions after receiving a vaccine. According to "The Complete Healthy Dog Handbook," in 2005 veterinarians reported 38 adverse reactions out of every 10,000 dogs vaccinated. Most reactions developed within 70 hours of the injection. Adverse reactions to a canine vaccine included vomiting, diarrhea, extreme swelling of the face and legs, severe itching, and excessive pain or pain that lasted beyond a few days.

    Treatment

    • Most adverse reactions to a canine vaccination are caused by an allergic reaction to the injection. One out of 1,000 dogs that are vaccinated go into anaphylactic shock, according to The Complete Healthy Dog Handbook. Your veterinarian can treat anaphylaxis by keeping your dog's airways clear, administering fluid and giving your dog epinephrine. Antihistamines, pain medication and time are usually enough to treat less severe reactions to vaccination.

    Considerations

    • Although there is a small risk of an adverse reaction, it is important that your dog be given canine vaccines. Not only will they help protect your dog's health and the health of any other pet in your household, but they can also protect your health because some diseases can be passed from dogs to humans. Talk to your veterinarian about your dog's particular medical risks and the laws regarding required canine vaccinations in your area.