Caring for your dog after vaccination: what to do once the jab is done

Vaccination is one of the most important things you can do for your dog’s health. It protects them against a number of deadly infectious diseases. The injection itself, however, is only part of the story — what matters just as much is proper post-vaccination care, which ensures the vaccine works as it should and that your dog feels well afterwards.

What is post-vaccination care?

Post-vaccination care is a set of measures designed to minimise the risk of adverse reactions after a vaccination and to give the vaccine the best possible chance of working. It matters most during the first few days after the visit to the veterinary practice.

What to do after the vaccination

1. Keep an eye on your dog: owners should watch their dog closely for 24–48 hours after the vaccination. Mild reactions during this period are normal — low spirits, sleepiness, a slight temperature or a reduced appetite. A small swelling or tenderness may appear at the injection site. These signs usually settle on their own. If more serious reactions occur, however — severe vomiting, diarrhoea, swelling of the muzzle or difficulty breathing — contact your veterinarian immediately.
2. Rest: after a vaccination the dog’s body is busy producing antibodies, and it needs peace and quiet. Avoid strenuous exercise, long walks, training sessions and play with other dogs. Over-exertion puts a strain on the body and may reduce how well the vaccine works.
3. Feeding: in the first hours after the vaccination you can give your dog a smaller portion of food to avoid an upset stomach. Water should always be available.

Why avoid contact with other dogs?

This is one of the most important rules, particularly for puppies who are only at the start of their vaccination course.

• Immunity is not yet complete: a vaccine does not work instantly. The body needs anything from a few days to a couple of weeks to build full immunity. What is more, a puppy’s vaccination course consists of several doses given at intervals, and full protection only arrives after the final one. Until then, the puppy is still open to infection.
• Risk of infection: contact with other dogs, especially those whose health status is unknown, carries a serious risk of catching diseases the puppy is not yet fully protected against. Even a partly vaccinated animal can fall seriously ill.

This applies both to walks in public places and to play in dog parks. In the period after vaccination, a puppy should mix only with the household and with fully vaccinated dogs whose health status is certain.

Do not forget parasite control

Vaccination is only one element of preventive care. Before each dose, the veterinarian will check that the dog has been wormed and is protected against fleas and ticks. Remember to keep up with these treatments at home. Parasites weaken a dog’s immune system, which can significantly reduce how well a vaccine works. Inadequate parasite control is a common reason for postponing a vaccination.

Taking vaccination and post-vaccination care seriously is the best investment you can make in your dog’s health and safety.