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My puppy is in pain after vaccines. Should I go to urgent care?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Male | neutered | 4 months old | 5.2 lbs

I got my puppy vaccinated today and know he is screaming anytime that I pick him up. He got the Lyme disease and distemper vaccines, the Lyme vaccine is new. This is not typical behavior. Should I take him to urgent care?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on May 8th, 2017

Getting vaccines can cause a little pain and discomfort in dogs, and in my experience toy breed dogs can be extra sensitive. I would stop picking him up and letting him rest. Make sure he is eating and drinking, and monitor him tonight. If he's still acting painful in the morning, then I would have him seen by a vet. Take him to urgent care tonight if he starts vomiting and having diarrhea excessively, starts having any facial swelling, or difficulty breathing.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on November 13th, 2019

    Poor little Frank. Getting vaccines can be painful. Please do not give him any human pain medications. Many are toxic to dogs, and can be fatal if given. Try putting a cold compress where he got the shot to see if that helps. This pain should ease in a day or two but if it doesn't or he appears to be in more pain, have him seen by a vet.

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