Dog itchy, red eyes after shots. Allergic reaction? What can I do?

Hello, thank you for your question about Norman. Based on the symptoms you are describing it sounds like Norman is having an allergic reaction. If he received his vaccinations on Thursday, it is unlikely that he is just now having a reaction to the vaccine. Most reactions occur within 24 hours after vaccination. However, some small dogs can be more sensitive when receiving multiple vaccinations. Based on what you've listed, the Lepto vaccine is the one that is most likely to cause a reaction because of the vaccine formulation. It is possible that there is something else leading to the reaction - such as something in his environment (insect, spider, etc). If he continues to have swollen and itchy eyes in spite of the Benadryl I would recommend having him seen by a veterinarian so that they can administer injectable medications to help with this reaction. Hope this helps, good luck!

This could very well be the start of a vaccine reaction. I would consider taking him in to the vet now to make sure his vitals are ok and to go ahead and get him treated. It's best to be safe than sorry when you have inflammation in the face the same day vaccines were given. I hope Louie turns out ok and this doesn't progress any more than this localized reaciton area. Treatment is the next best step. Best wishes and take care.

Your dog should get an antihistamine before the vaccination. You should ask your vet about giving him a diphenhydramine , or chlorpheniramine injection about an hour before getting the vaccination. This should avoid the reaction or at least reduce the impact. Your veterinarian should have these injectables available.

Vaccine reactions usually occur within 24-48 hours after the injections so they are unlikely to be related at this point. A lot of allergies are from the environment such as grass, dust, pollens...things you can't control. However a respiratory infection can also cause these problems. An exam by your vet can distinguish between the two. You can always give an over the counter antihistamine such as Benadryl for allergies.

Poor guy. It sounds like he may be having a mild reaction to the vaccine. I would contact your vet to get him an antihistamine shot to help relieve the itch. He may also benefit from oral allergy medication for a few days until things subside. If you can't get him in right away, you can try an over the counter pet formulated aloe based or oatmeal based shampoo (one with Diphenhydramine is best if available) to help alleviate some of the irritation. Also as a general rule of thumb, giving pet formulated fish oils can help provide a natural anti-inflammatory effect on the skin in dogs. Best wishes moving foward with Brinks care.

The pictures are kind of blurry but I can tell there is some redness. The swelling is difficult to appreciate. It does seem like an allergic reaction to something, but what.....I cannot say. Since she is acting otherwise normally you can try to give her some over the counter antihistamine medication - you can use diphenhydramine (Benadryl). I would give her 1/2 of a 25mg caplet by mouth every 12 hours. If this has not resolved by Monday then she should see your vet. https://www.benadryl.ca/products/benadryl-caplets

It sounds like she could have had a vaccine reaction as they typically happen soon after being administeted the vaccine. Your vet will likely want to give her injections or steroids and diphenhydramine, and may keep an eye on her to make sure the swelling goes down. In the future she may need pre-medication prior to being vaccinated to avoid another reaction.