Porphyromonas Vaccine Side Effects

Porphyromonas bacteria contribute to potentially serious periodontal disease in dogs. Pfizer has developed a vaccine against the most common types of these bacteria which has been tested and conditionally licensed by the US Department of Agriculture. The vaccine has been tested and shown to be safe for use in dogs over the age of 7 weeks and effective in dogs at least 8 months old; Pfizer reports that future studies will show more precisely how well the vaccine works.

    Effectiveness

    • The vaccine may not be effective if the dog's immune response was lowered at the time of vaccination. According to Pfizer, in addition to illness, stress is a common cause for a dog's immune response to be lowered, and Pfizer recommends that the vaccine only be administered when a dog is healthy according to a veterinarian.

    Fever

    • Fever is one possible side effect of vaccination. According to Pfizer, a dog with a fever may be tired, feel warm and not want to eat. This fever may last for one or two days, but a veterinarian should be contacted if the fever persists. Pfizer also recommends contacting a veterinarian if a dog appears to be in a lot of pain and is less active than usual.

    Injection Site Reaction

    • Some dogs may experience a mild reaction in the place where the vaccination shot was given. This includes swelling, redness and a feeling of warmth in the area. Pfizer recommends visually inspecting an area to make sure the reaction is clearing up, and contacting a veterinarian if the concern persists.

    Allergic Reaction

    • Some dogs may have an allergic reaction to vaccination for porphyromonas. Symptoms of allergic reaction include vomiting, diarrhea, problems with breathing and collapsing; swelling and hives may also occur, according to Pfizer. A veterinarian should be contacted if allergic reaction is suspected; reactions are treatable but sometimes fatal, according to Pfizer.

    Immune Disease

    • Some vaccinations may be linked to diseases of the immune systems of dogs, although this is very rare. Immune disease may lead to slowness, weakness, loss of appetite, thirst, increased urination, bleeding and bruising, according to Pfizer. Pfizer recommends contacting a veterinarian if any of these problems occur.