Earth Clinic readers have reported numerous side effects to the Rabies Vaccine over the years. Side effects from the Rabies Vaccine include vomiting, lethargy, diarrhea, drooling, neurological problems, swelling, itching, weight loss, and wounds at the site of the vaccine. Some side effects present right away, others take some time to be apparent, including arthritis and growths at the site of the vaccine. Some pet owners have experienced that their dog has a dramatic change in behavior, for the worse. Sadly, a number of deaths have been reported.
Diana from PA experienced a variety of side effects when her dog got his Rabies Vaccine. "I had always followed the "rules" and allowed my Papillon to receive his prescribed rabies shot. About four years ago, after receiving the shot, we had just arrived home about 20 minutes from the vet's office, when I noticed his behavior was becoming a bit frantic, he was drooling and his little face was beginning to swell. I became hysterical, phoned the vet's office and told them we would be returning pronto... Upon arrival, they whisked him back and gave a shot of epinephrine and steroids. Since that time, whenever he gets his rabies shot, he must always get a steroid shot first.
This year my Papillon is 11 years old and he went for his rabies shot, as usual, he received his steroids first. But this year was different. It's been several weeks now and he seems withdrawn, cautious and something all family members have noticed is that his hearing seems to have significantly deteriorated since receiving the shot. I had been suspicous of the shot all along, however now even more so. After reading other posts, I will do more research and decide what to do from this point forward."
In New Mexico, Summer's Toy Fox Terrier "developed a bald spot on the right shoulder just above the leg from the rabies vaccination injection. The hair di not grown back after several months and the spot is completely bare. Our vet did not seem concerned about it and gave the next injections under the front right leg. He has since developed a small bump under the skin at the second injection site."
Puppies should not receive Rabies Vaccines before the age of 16 weeks. Please be familiar with your local laws; some states do not require the vaccine before 5-6 months. It is always preferable to delay vaccinations until puppies are older and stronger, whenever possible. A three year Rabies Vaccine is preferable to a yearly vaccine; a yearly shot is a lot of stress on the immune system. You may also be able to request a Rabies Titer instead of a Rabies Booster. It is best to avoid any vaccinations when a pet is already sick.
If your puppy or dog experiences side effects from the Rabies Vaccine, please be sure to let us know. Continue reading below to read testimonials from hundreds of our readers who reported suspected side effects from the rabies vaccine. Be forewarned that some of these testimonials have tragic endings.
If you suspect your dog is experiencing side effects from Rabies Vaccine, please visit our rabies side effects treatment page here.
