Puppy Reactions to Rabies Vaccination
Rabies vaccinations protect dogs from this fatal yet common disease. That's why it's so important to get your new puppy vaccinated as soon as it is old enough. However, you should also be aware that rabies vaccines are not without their side effects. Understanding how the vaccination will affect your puppy can prepare you for the experience.
-
Definition
-
Rabies is a viral infection that attacks the central nervous system. The virus is transmitted mostly by wild animals like bats and raccoons. There is no cure for rabies in dogs. The rabies vaccine consists of an inactivated rabies virus, which, after being introduced into the body, makes the body able to fight off the active version of the virus.
Function
-
Rabies vaccines are typically given to puppies between 16 and 26 weeks of age, depending on when a state requires that dogs first be vaccinated. Additionally, your puppy will need a booster shot a year after its first shot. This will keep it from contracting the rabies virus should it come into contact with an infected animal during its outdoor romps.
-
Minor Reactions
-
Your puppy will likely experience some mild side effects associated with most vaccinations, according to Vet Info. These include a bit of pain and swelling at the injection site. You may also notice that your puppy is somewhat lethargic the day after receiving its vaccination. Additionally, the puppy may develop a low-grade fever and lose its appetite. These side effects are nothing to worry about and should disappear within a couple of days.
Major Reactions
-
Anaphylactic shock has been linked to vaccines with an inactive virus, such as the rabies vaccine. If your puppy begins experiencing seizures, severe diarrhea, shock or vomiting, it needs emergency veterinary care. Additionally, some puppies can develop abscesses at the injection site. If you think your puppy has developed this condition, seek veterinary care.
Considerations
-
Dogs that suffer from allergies often find that their allergies worsen if they get any vaccinations during the peak of allergy season. So if your puppy is allergic to pollen or anything else in the environment, consider waiting to vaccinate it until the allergies subside.
-
References
- Photo Credit Puppy image by Ludmila Galchenkova from Fotolia.com
