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Pre-Surgical Information
Spaying or neutering your pet is a big step! There is a lot to consider
when we are planning your pet’s surgery. Here is some information to help
you make wise decisions.
Click here . . .
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Special LibraryOur Special Library
is a collection of informative articles on a variety of health topics.
Click here . . .
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Discharge InstructionsClick here for
information on how to care for your pet at home.
Click here . . .
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Vaccine Reactions
There are three main types of vaccine reactions.
Although they have fancier names, we will call them the Same Day Reaction, the
Day After Reaction, and the Lump Reaction.
The Same-Day Reaction
The
Same Day Reaction happens the same day as the
vaccination, often within a few hours. Several different
things may happen. Your dog's face may swell up, your
dog may develop hives, or your dog may vomit. They may
feel ill. Some patients experience a combination of the
above.
Cats have fewer vaccine reactions of this type
than dogs do, and they almost never experience hives or
swelling. They may, however, experience vomiting,
itchiness, or lethargy the same day as vaccination.
Look
closely at the images on this page. A white
boxer with hives is shown above. A tan mixed breed dog
with facial swelling is shown below. The Same Day
Reaction can be severe, so if you observe any of these
problems, please call the clinic number at 523-2513
immediately. Sometimes we are able to manage the problem
with antihistamines at home, sometimes they need to be
brought in for more intense treatment
The Day-After Reaction
Sometimes pets will not feel well
the day after vaccination. This is the most common
problem we see, and it generally is not very serious.
Vaccines are made to stimulate the immune system, and
sometimes when that happens the patient will experience
a slight fever. They will be quieter than usual, may not
eat well, and may sleep more than usual.
Generally, this is a short-term problem, and they are
back to their old selves the next day. Usually,
treatment isn’t necessary. If they are not feeling well
the next day, call us during business hours and we will
be happy to check them out free-of-charge.
The Lump Reaction
Vaccines are designed to stimulate the immune system,
and sometimes they do such a good job that they cause
some local swelling. It may take a few hours, a few
days, or a few weeks for the swelling to show up. Other
patients will experience pain at the injection site.
(please add image “Tiny Dog” as shown)
Generally, the lumps are not a big problem. It can be
hard to tell the difference between a vaccination know
and a tumor, however. If you call during business hours,
we will be happy to evaluate the lump for you
free-of-charge.
Some patients experience pain at the injection site.
Often, these patients are on the “sensitive” side, like
Chihuahua’s, Yorkies, Min Pins, and other tiny dogs.
They may yelp when touched on the back. If this happens,
warm compresses can help. If they seem to be in severe
pain, call us during business hours and we can give an
inexpensive dose of medication that will help.
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