Tenafly Veterinary Center & Overpeck Creek Animal Hospital

Pet Vaccinations: Common & Uncommon Side Effects

It is common for pets to experience some or all of the following mild side effects after receiving a vaccine, usually starting within hours of the vaccination. If these side effects last for more than a day or two, or cause your pet significant discomfort, it is important for you to contact your veterinarian.

What To Look Out For

Common Side Effects:

  • Sleepy/Lethargic
  • Shaking
  • Sore/Stiff
  • Loss of appetite

Uncommon Side Effects:

  • Swelling of the face
  • Non-stop itchiness
  • Persistent vomiting and/or diarrhea
  • Collapse

Homecare Information:

  • Side effects may last 24-48 hours after vaccine
  • Offer soft, warm food to encourage pets with loss of appetite
  • Benadryl can be given to alleviate symptoms

Benadryl Tablet or Capsule 25mg:

  • ½ tab for every 10lbs
  • 1 tab for every 20-30lbs
  • Give every 8-12 hours as needed

Claritin:

  • Small - 5 mg by mouth every 24 hours
  • Medium - 10 mg by mouth every 24 hours
  • Large - 15 mg by mouth every 24 hours
  • Home Care After Vaccinations | View pdf

* For dogs only.

Hours of Operation

Phone: 201-292-4949

  • Monday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
  • Tuesday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
  • Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
  • Thursday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
  • Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Saturday: 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM
  • Sunday: Closed

Accepting day-time emergencies. Hablamos Español!

Overpeck Creek location icon

Bogota, NJ


101 E. Main Street

Bogota, NJ 07603

201-292-4949

Tenafly Veterinary location icon

Tenafly, NJ


38 Piermont Road

Tenafly, NJ 07670

201-567-7878

Hours of Operation

Phone: 201-567-7878

  • Monday: 7:30 AM - 6:00 PM
  • Tuesday: 7:30 AM - 6:00 PM
  • Wednesday: 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Thursday: 7:30 AM - 6:00 PM
  • Friday: 7:30 AM - 6:00 PM
  • Saturday: 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM
  • Sunday: Closed