Puppy's leg swollen, painful, lethargic after shots. Is it normal?

I'm sorry to hear that Lettie is not feeling like her usual self! It should be noted that even normal puppy vaccines can lead to some side effects such as lethargy (decreased activity, tiredness), swelling or tenderness around the injection site and even mild nausea (possibly the drooling). That being said, rarely dogs can undergo an allergic reaction to vaccines which often show up as vomiting, collapse, and swelling of the face or other limbs. If these have been observed she should be seen by a veterinarian immediately. In regards to the safety of administering the Heartguard and Nexgard along with the vaccines, it is standard protocol to begin these preventative medications at this time and are safe to give to a puppy of Lettie's age. The most important thing going forward is to continue to monitor Lettie for any worsening or changing of her clinical signs. For example, if she starts to vomit becomes even more tired or lethargic, continues to want to eat or do anything after more than a day, or even have swelling around her face then she needs to be seen by a veterinarian immediately.

While you can see some pain after receiving vaccines, it should easy in 24-48 hours. Rest Simba. No running, jumping, or playing. Take him out to potty on a leash, and bring him right back in when he's done. Do not feel the area where he got the shots. You can apply a cold compress gently to that area to see if it helps. If he is still this way in the morning, have him seen by a vet.

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!

Hello and thank you very much for your question. What you were most likely experiencing is an injection site reaction. D’s can sometimes go away within 24 to 48 hours for these can stay for months. Sometimes these reactions can also be painful and elicit other immune responses such as difficulty breathing, etc. My best advice is to contact the veterinary clinic that administered the injections and tell them what you are experiencing. What most likely will happen is that they may want to re-examine your animal and possibly give you some topical or oral or injectable medication to offset the inflammation. Generally, these appointments do not cost anything and be makers of the vaccine take care of the costs associated. But this all depends on the veterinarian and the clinic involved. So I Urge you to call the veterinary clinic and schedule an appointment as soon as possible to get this lump checked out. We really appreciate you using our service. I hope I have helped.

Unfortunately, this sounds like the puppy is very injured and ill and needs to be seen by a vet ASAP. If there is not a vet in your town, looking the next town over, or seeing if there is a local animal shelter or humane society that can take him in is best. Until you can find a vet or person to take him in for care, keeping him calm and quiet can help, however he needs to be seen in person ASAP.

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 :)

I'm so sorry that Zeke is painful after his vaccination. Unfortunately, pain at the injection site is a possible side effect of vaccinations and some small dogs tend to become achy and painful all over. I would recommend contacting your veterinarian. There are some prescription pain medications that can be very helpful in decreasing pain and inflammation associated with vaccination. I will typically use Metacam which works very well. You may also ask your veterinarian if Zeke should have pain medication in the future before his vaccinations, so he does not have this problem again. Good luck! I hope that was helpful and that Zeke feels better soon. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.