Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Why are my dog's neck and armpit glands swollen after her flu shot?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Jack Russell Terrier | Female | spayed | 8 years and 1 month old | 21 lbs

All if a sudden our female Jack Russell has swollen glands in her neck and under her front legs. She received the canine influenza shot in the las 7 days and we have changed her dry food to a salmon flavored one

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

Veterinarian

Published on March 23rd, 2017

The locations that you are describing likely involve Bailey's mandibular and axillary lymph nodes. Lymph nodes can become enlarged as a reaction to certain inflammatory conditions, or even to cancer. I would be surprised if her recent influenza vaccine or diet changes are involved. She needs to see her vet in the next day or two for an exam and fine needle aspirates of the affected lymph nodes. The fine needle aspirate entails sticking a needle into lymph node to draw out a few cells (its relatively quick and painless!) before examining the cells microscopically.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    The swelling could indeed be caused by the vaccination and is a natural reaction showing that the immune system is responding to the immunization. This should pass within the next days. She may also have a fever. If the swellings do not subside by Monday, I suggest you have her checked by your veterinarian, as swollen lymph nodes can be a sign of infection or lymphoma as well.

    Vote icon

    0Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?
Is your mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and pussy? Dr. Melanie, a certified vet, discusses severe eye issues like infection or abscess, urging an immediate visit.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?
Can your chickens eat bell peppers and salads? Veterinarian Dr. Elizabeth offers expert advice on safe feeding, frequency, and how fresh veggies boost vibrant yolks.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Is Purina Layer Pellets good for chickens? What other feeds exist?
Is Purina Layer Pellets the right choice for your flock? Get expert advice from a Petco veterinarian on Purina and other top chicken feed brands for your chickens.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
My mice eat all their food together from one bowl. Is this normal?
Do your mice quickly eat together from one bowl? A Licensed Vet Tech explains normal mouse eating behavior and when to watch for aggression. Get expert insights.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My degu lost teeth after an accident. How can I feed him soft foods?
Your degu had an accident, lost teeth, and can't eat hard food. A Petco Vet Tech offers crucial advice on immediate vet care and how to feed your injured degu.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored