Pets, just like people, may run a fever, become sore, or have muscle aches (like your
arm after a tetanus shot) after receiving vaccinations.  Older animals, which may have
arthritis may seem more stiff & sore for a few days.  Dogs may become grouchy and
nippy or alternatively want to be near their owner.  They may lay around, or complain
when you touch sore muscles.  These side effects are common and usually run their
course with 24-48 hours without need for further medical care. You may spoil your pet
during this time and feed them their favorite food to get them to eat and drink.  Do not
judge your pet’s temperature by feeling your pet, as that can be misleading.  Some
normal parameters are listed below:

Dogs:

Dog normal temperature:                  99.5 – 102.5 degrees F
Dog Normal Heart Rate:                  110 – 120
Dog Normal Respiratory rate:          15 – 30

Aspirin
10 - 25 mg/pound orally, up to one adult aspirin every 8 hrs as needed
If your dog weighs: 1 – 5 lbs give ¼ to ½  baby aspirin by mouth every eight hours as needed

(DO NOT GIVE Tylenol, Ibuprofen , Alleve, or any other anti-inflammatory!!!!)

Benadryl (Diphenhydramine)

1 adult tablet or capsule equals 25mg
1 tsp liquid equals 12.5 mg
1 tsp = 5cc or  5 ml

Weight (lbs)        Dose                Equals
1 – 5                     5mg                 ½ tsp children’s syrup  2-3 times daily as needed
10                         10mg                1 tsp children’s syrup, or ½ adult tablet 2-3 times daily as needed
15                         15mg                 1 ½ tsp or ½ adult tablet 2-3 times daily as needed
20 -30                  25mg                 2 tsp children’s syrup, or 1 adult tablet 2-3 times daily as needed