Vaccination is an essential part of keeping your pet healthy and protected against various diseases. While it can be a procedure, it’s important for pet owners to know what to expect before, during, and after the appointment. Here’s what you should consider when getting your furry friend vaccinated!
Before Vaccination
1. Consultation with the Veterinarian**: Prior to vaccination, you’ll have a discussion with Dr. Bone about your pet’s medical history, age, and lifestyle. This conversation helps determine which vaccines are appropriate for your pet. If your pet normally has a vaccine reaction this is the best time to discuss that. There are certain protocols like pre-medication (Benadryl and steroids) that we can give to help with these reactions or we can simply spread the vaccines out every 2-3 weeks for safety.
2. Pre-Vaccination Check-Up**: Dr. Bone will perform a physical examination to ensure your pet is healthy enough to receive vaccinations. This includes listening to the heart as well, checking teeth and ears, and giving the pet a thorough once over. If your pet is exhibiting signs of illness or if you have noticed your pet feeling slightly ill at home, Dr. Bone may recommend postponing the vaccination.
3. Understanding Vaccine Types**: Familiarize yourself with the vaccines your pet will receive. Core vaccines are essential for all pets (we consider the core vaccines to be Da2ppv, Lepto, Bordetella, and Rabies) , while non-core vaccines (Canine Influenza and Lyme) may vary based on lifestyle and exposure risks.
During Vaccination
1. The Procedure**: The vaccination itself can involve an injection, ingestible medication, or even a nasal spray, depending on the vaccine type. Your pet will only feel a slight pinch.
2. Response to Injection**: Some pets might whimper, flinch, or pull away slightly, but this is usually just a momentary reaction to the needle and can have.
After Vaccination
1. Post-Vaccination Behavior**: After receiving their vaccine, many pets may experience some mild side effects. It’s common for them to feel a bit lethargic or not want to play as much as usual. This can last anywhere from a few hours to a couple of days. We normally do not recommend going on a long walk or going to the dog park right after getting vaccinated. Try to keep the rest of your day more mellow.
2. Signs of a Vaccine Reaction**: Keep an eye out for any unusual behavior or symptoms after vaccination, including:
– Swelling or tenderness at the injection site–sometimes your pet can get a hard knot after a couple of days where the injection was given. Please let us know if this happens.
– Persistent lethargy or lack of interest in food
– Vomiting or diarrhea
– Difficulty breathing or severe swelling (especially around the face)
– Hives or excessive itching
3. When to Contact Dr. Bone**: If you notice any severe reactions or if your pet’s lethargy lasts more than 24-48 hours, it’s important to reach out to us immediately for guidance. **For breathing and swelling issues, call immediately!!
Conclusion
Vaccinations are crucial for maintaining your pet’s health and wellbeing. Understanding what to expect before, during, and after the process can help ease anxiety for both you and your furry companion. Always consult Dr. Bone or our veterinary health team with any concerns or questions regarding vaccinations and your pet’s health. By staying informed, you can ensure a stress-free experience for your beloved pet!
If you have more questions or need further details about pet care or vaccinations, feel free to ask!