The vast majority of the time, puppy vaccinations cause no adverse reactions for the puppy. Vaccinations are good for your puppy, providing him with protection against illnesses that he might be exposed to in the future. Although most vaccinations are safe, and there are only a few cases of adverse reactions, it is important to watch for them in your puppy.
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Types
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Most adverse reactions from puppy vaccinations are small and concentrated. The most common reactions include soreness in the vaccination area, a low-grade fever, and changes to personality, such as being lethargic or seeming depressed or grumpy. A puppy might exhibit any or all of these reactions, or might have none of them at all.
Serious Reaction
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Rarely, puppies will get very sick from puppy vaccinations. High fever, refusal to eat, and even renal failure can accompany a serious reaction. Often, these reactions can be monitored and treated by a vet successfully, which is why it is important to watch for the differences between general adverse reactions and more serious ones.
Differences
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General adverse reactions, like pain, fever, or lethargy, are usually nothing to worry about. However, you need to recognize the difference between general adverse reactions and more serious ones. If your puppy is lethargic to the point where he won't eat and drink, or if the lethargy or change in behavior lasts for more than two days, the reaction is worthy of calling a vet. A low grade fever isn't something to worry about, but if your pet seems depressed or grumpy for more than two days, his fever might also warrant a call to the vet. General pain at the site of the vaccination will fade in a day or two, but if the pain is lasting, and the puppy won't let you touch the area after two days, check with your vet.
Treatment
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For general adverse reactions, give your pet extra attention and let him get back to himself in a few days. For a lethargic dog, lots of love and attention is usually all the treatment that is needed. Small grade fevers will go away on their own, and pain usually dissipates in a couple of days. For more serious adverse reactions, vets will usually use IVs to keep the puppy hydrated, and might administer medications to counteract the vaccinations. However, vets usually like to allow puppies recover on their own, whenever possible.
Considerations
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The chances of adverse reactions are so slight that they should not be used as a reason to avoid puppy vaccinations. Even puppies who have adverse reactions usually bounce back on their own in a few days. However, if your puppy has had health problems in the past, or seems to be exceptionally prone to infection or sickness, talk with your vet about spacing vaccinations out and which vaccinations are absolutely necessary.
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