From the team at PoCo West Animal Hospital
At PoCo West Animal Hospital, your pet’s health, safety, and comfort are at the heart of everything we do. Vaccinations are a key part of protecting your dog from serious diseases like rabies, parvovirus, and distemper. And while most dogs tolerate vaccines very well, it’s completely normal for pet parents to have questions about side effects.
We’re here to guide you with clarity, compassion, and the facts—so you feel confident knowing your furry friend is in safe hands.
Why Vaccinate Your Dog?
Vaccines help your dog build immunity to prevent potentially life-threatening illnesses. Some vaccines are core (recommended for all dogs), while others are lifestyle-based (like Bordetella for social dogs or Lyme for those in tick-prone areas).
At PoCo West, we tailor every vaccine plan to your dog’s individual needs—so they’re protected without over-vaccinating.
What Are Normal Vaccine Side Effects?
Most dogs feel just fine after their shots. But just like people, some may experience mild, short-lived symptoms, usually within the first 24–48 hours. These may include:
- A bit of extra sleepiness
- Mild soreness or a small bump at the injection site
- Slight decrease in appetite
- A low-grade fever or general “off” behavior
These signs simply mean your dog’s immune system is responding as it should!
Rare Side Effects: What to Watch For
Serious vaccine reactions in dogs are very rare, but it’s important to be aware of them. These reactions typically happen shortly after vaccination and may include:
- Swelling around the face or muzzle
- Hives or itchy skin
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Trouble breathing or sudden collapse
If you notice any of these signs, call PoCo West Animal Hospital immediately—we’re here for you, 100%.
How PoCo West Keeps Your Dog Safe
We go the extra mile to make sure every vaccine appointment is safe, smooth, and stress-free:
- Customized vaccine plans based on your dog’s breed, age, and lifestyle
- Gentle, fear-free handling by our caring team
- Careful monitoring after shots, especially for small or sensitive dogs
- Pre-vaccine planning for pets with a history of reactions
Your pet is family—and we treat them that way.
Aftercare Tips: Helping Your Pup Feel Their Best
Here’s how you can support your dog at home after their vaccine visit:
- Let them rest and take it easy for the day
- Offer plenty of water and gentle snuggles
- Avoid vigorous play or long walks
- Watch for anything out of the ordinary, and call us if needed
Most importantly: trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, we’re always just a phone call away.
Schedule Your Dog’s Vaccines with Confidence
At PoCo West Animal Hospital, we believe that prevention is the best medicine—and that includes vaccines. Our team will always walk you through what to expect, and we’re here to answer any questions before, during, or after your visit.
Book your appointment today and protect your pup with personalized, compassionate care.
📍 PoCo West Animal Hospital
📞604-554-1255