While the vaccines we use are very safe, some animals may have an allergic reaction to one or more vaccines. These reactions can vary from mild signs such as localized swelling and pain, to a swollen itchy face, to more severe/possible life-threatening signs such as difficulty breathing, vomiting, diarrhea, or sudden collapse. When your pet has had a vaccine reaction, there are several things you/us can do in the future to reduce the risk of further reactions:
Discuss with the veterinarian staff which are essential for your pet’s health. There may be some vaccines that you and the veterinarian staff decide are not necessary for your pet due to low exposure to the disease.
Giving only one vaccine at a time can help reduce the risk of an allergic reaction. We will often give one vaccine one day, the next vaccine a week later, and so on. The initial vaccine is given at the time of appointment.
Note: subsequent vaccines MAY be done with a technician if your pet fits the criteria
Pet must be older than 1 year (unless Okayed by your Vet.)
No further medical issues that need to be addressed with your veterinarian.
Premedication whether it is done at home or at the clinic with Benadryl ® (Diphenhydramine) can help prevent a reaction to a vaccine. Staff may also sometimes recommend oral Benadryl ® at home after the vaccine is given.
Call right away if you notice any of the following symptoms after Vaccines or Medications are given Swelling, Itching of the face or eyes, Hives, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Difficulty breathing, Excessive swelling at the injection site(s), Painful joints, or/and Sudden collapse. Recommended Benadryl ® (Diphenhydramine) Dose: Doses can start every 12 hours until the reaction subdues. If continues, please call for further instructions.
2-4#, Give ¼ teaspoon of Children’s Benadryl ®
4.1-6#, Give ½ teaspoon of Children's Benadryl ®
6.1-8#, Give ¾ teaspoon of Children's Benadryl ®
8.1-16#, Give 1 teaspoon of Children's Benadryl ® or ½ tablet of Adult Benadryl ®
