Understanding post vaccine reactions: what pet parents need to know

We all love our pets and want them to be healthy, and that often times means to book vet visits to make sure we are doing our due diligence when it comes to providing everything our pets need to be healthy and strong.

With every medication and vaccine comes side effects, and it is very important we know what all that entails before we make a decision, so that it can be an educated decision for our four-legged family members.

Just as a side note-
Your veterinarian should have already gone through all this with you, as it is information pet guardians need to be 100% aware of, so that there will be no unwanted surprises in the future.

Let's start by going through normal to mild side effects;

Signs of normal to mild side effects:

These are common and usually resolve within a day or two:

1. Lethargy or Mild Fatigue
   • Your pet may seem tired or less active than usual.
2. Mild Swelling or Soreness at the Injection Site
   • A small, firm lump may develop where the shot was given but should subside within a few days.
3. Decreased Appetite
   • Your pet might eat a bit less immediately after the vaccination.
4. Mild Fever
   • A slightly elevated temperature as the immune system responds to the vaccine.
5. Sneezing or Mild Nasal Discharge (for intranasal vaccines)
   • This is common for vaccines like Bordetella.

Signs of mild to allergic reactions:

These can occur a few hours after vaccination and usually require vet consultation:

1. Itchiness or Hives
   • Small, raised bumps or redness on the skin.
2. Facial Swelling
   • Puffiness around the eyes, muzzle, or ears.
3. Excessive Drooling or Licking
   • Indicative of mouth or throat discomfort.

Warning signs of a sever reaction (seek immediate veterinary care):

Severe reactions are rare but can be life-threatening. These may occur within minutes to a few hours:

1. Difficulty Breathing
   • Panting, wheezing, or labored breathing.
2. Vomiting or Diarrhea
   • Persistent or severe episodes.
3. Collapse or Fainting
   • A sudden loss of energy or consciousness.
4. Pale Gums or Cold Extremities
   • Signs of shock or poor circulation.
5. Anaphylaxis
   • A combination of the above symptoms; this is a medical emergency.
6. Tumor on site of injection
   • A malignant tumor can form at the injection site of a vaccine, weeks, months or even years later. This is called an injection site sarcoma (FISS). The majority of FISS cases are associated with rabies and FeLV vaccines.

What to do if you notice side effects:

• Monitor closely: Most mild symptoms resolve on their own within 24–48 hours.
• Contact your vet: If symptoms seem unusual, persist, or worsen.
• Seek emergency care: For severe reactions, especially breathing difficulties, collapse, or anaphylaxis.

How to help your pets before vaccinating:

• Make sure their immune systems are already strong and trained, the 2 supplements we recommend for this is a medicinal mushroom supplement and colostrum.
• We also recommend supplementing your pets always with a quality greens supplement for the chlorophyll content as this will ensure that some of the heavy metals from the vaccines (like mercury) get absorbed, plus it will help regenerate liver cells and bring oxygen to red blood cells.
• Gut microbiome health is also key, look for a quality probiotic formula that also contain prebiotics as well, such as Matty's Blend probiotic. 80% of the immune system is in the gut. Matty's Blend probiotic also contains Larch arabinogalactin which has been studied for its beneficial post vaccine affects in the body, and also infections. 
• Research the vaccines itself, or ask your vet what the most severe case side effects are, and if possible ask for mercury-free vaccines.
• Stick to the core vaccines, try not to over vaccinate.
• Learn and understand how vaccines work, and how long they last in the body.
• Titer test before vaccinating.

How to help your pets after vaccinating:

• Provide a calm and comfortable environment.
• Offer plenty of water and encourage rest.
• Avoid strenuous activities or exercise for 24–48 hours.
• Reassure your pet with gentle care and attention.
• Detoxing your pets after vaccinating may also be highly beneficial and necessary (this can even be done before you vaccinate them) to help set them up for success in their health and wellness journey, contact us to learn more or to book a consultation with Lucy.

 Feel prepared and confident about keeping your furry companions safe!