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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 . . .

 

   

 

   
Special Library

Our Special Library is a collection of informative articles on a variety of health topics.  Click here . . .

 

   

 

   
Discharge Instructions

Click here for information on how to care for your pet at home.  Click here . . .

 

   

 

 
   

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



Tiny DogVaccines 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.