Why does my dog scream when picked up after shots? Injection site?

Hello there, and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I'm sorry to hear that Snapple isn't feeling well. It isn't entirely uncommon for dogs to feel sore and puny after a round of vaccines - just like people can. They can cause soreness at the area of injection and mild general malaise, which would explain Snapple's unwillingness to move and whimpering when you try to touch her. This will probably abate over the next day, but if you notice any other symptoms such as swelling, difficulty breathing, vomiting, or diarrhea, please call your vet as these may indicate a more serious reaction. This is very unlikely as most severe vaccine reactions occur within an hour of the shots, but it is always better to be safe than sorry. If she's still acting puny tomorrow, feel free to call your vet and let them know. They may be able to recommend or prescribe an anti-inflammatory/pain reliever that will make her feel much better. Do not give her anything over the counter as it may not be safe for her. Good luck, and I hope that Snapple gets back on her feet soon!

This may be tender from the injection, and then again it may be that he remembered that the injection was uncomfortable or hurt. I suggest you mention this to the vet when you take him for the next round of vaccinations so the vet can examine the injection site and determine whether there is a problem. It will alert the vet also that your dog may be a little bit sensitive.

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Possible side effects after vaccines include pain at the injection site, lethargy, inappetence and general discomfort. This should subside within 1-2 days. If it does not improve or it worsens, have Lily evaluated by a veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. Otherwise, Lily will likely start feeling better shortly. Good luck and best wishes!

You can apply an ice pack to the area of the injection site for today (if your vet is closed). A bag of frozen peas works well for this as it can conform to the area. Be sure to wrap the ice pack/frozen peas in a thin towel or cloth so it isn't directly touching the skin. You can leave it on for 10-15 minutes and reapply every few hours. If she is still painful tomorrow call your vet and they can decide if she needs some prescription pain medication. Signs that she may need to see a vet right away (an emergency vet) would include severe lethargy, vomiting, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, or hives.

Buster is probably just sore at the injection sites. This can be normal in young, small puppies. The soreness will probably pass in the next 24 hours. In the meantime you can try icing the area and see if that helps. If he is still sore after a day or so you may want to call your veterinarian and see if you can pick up some pain medication to help him be more comfortable. I hope this helps. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Best of luck.

Hi, thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. If Tika is eating and drinking and acting normally otherwise she is probably just a little sore from her vaccinations. If she is extremely painful, not eating, has vomited then she could be having a more serious vaccine reaction. If she is, then take her to an emergency clinic tonight. Do not give Tika any otc human pain medications. If she is just a bit sore, then wait and call her regular vet in the morning. If she is still painful they may prescribe some medication. Even if she is better, let them know to make a note in her chart, sometimes medication may be given before vaccinations to prevent reaction. I hope Tika is back to normal soon.

My suspicion is that this is injection-site pain and not a "true" vaccine reaction, however I do know that dogs (especially small ones) can be pretty painful in the limb they were vaccinated in for up to 36 hours afterwards. I wouldn't call it "normal" but we definitely see it - both of my own small dogs were painful after their last lepto vaccine. Because they can be pretty miserable, I would recommend calling your vet and asking if they might dispense a bit of pain relief - perhaps only 2 - 3 days worth - to make sure Ted is comfortable over the weekend. And if you see other more concerning signs - swelling about the head or face, difficulty breathing, vomiting, collapse - take him right into an emergency facility.