My puppy's arm is sore after shots. Why is he crying and how to help?

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!

Sometimes vccinations (any injection, for that matter) can be a bit sore for a day or two. If Nano is very painful, take a few ice cubes, put them in a plastic bag, wrap a towel around the bag and cool the injection site for 5 minutes, then stop. Do this a couple of times today (3-4 times) and the pain and potential swelling should be gone by tonight oor at the latest tomorrow morning.

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.

Poor Rocky. A lump at the vaccination site, as well as some soreness and tiredness, are normal after getting a vaccine. If Rocky will let you, you can try holding a warm compress (such as a washcloth soaked in warm water and then wrung out) against the sore area for a few minutes 1-2 times daily until he seems to be feeling better. Usually, most pups are back to normal within a few days :)

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This is very common- swelling and pain at the injection site are normal side effects. If you notice any vomiting, diarrhea, or hives take Auggie to the vet quickly. If it’s just the pain, do not give any over the counter medications but you can apply a cold compress for 10-15 minutes 2-3 times in the next 24 hours then switch to a warm compress if needed. If you feel like he needs something more, contact your vet for pain medications. Good luck and kisses to Auggie!

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.

Some puppies can have some mild pain from the injections. You could call your vet and see if he/she could prescribe an anti-inflammatory to help with the discomfort. It usually only lasts for 24-48 hours.