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Is puppy crying after lepto vaccine normal? How long does it last?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 2 months and 13 days old | 13 lbs

Puppies got lepto vaccine about 3 hours ago. No signs of allergic reaction to it. They have eaten and are okay. When I carry them and touch near the injection site, they cry a lot. Is this normal? How long does it last? I don’t feel any swelling around the area. Do you think they will develop side effects since they haven’t gotten any after three hrs?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on April 14th, 2018

Good on you for getting your puppies their lepto vaccines! When puppies get their vaccines, it can be painful for them at the injection site for around 24-48 hours, and that is normal. I would avoid carrying them if it makes them cry, and you can try putting a cold compress on site if they will let you for five minutes at a time a couple of times of day to see if that helps. Please do not give them any human pain medications, as many are toxic to puppies and can be fatal if given. This pain should go away in a day or two. If it doesn't, give the vet a call, as they may want to see the puppies. As for side effects, typically you would see them develop within 24 hours of the vaccines. Keep an eye on them for now, but serious side effects are rare and they should be fine. I hope this helps!

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