Question:
My dachshund broke out in bumps the last time she got a rabies shot. Per recommendation from my vet, I gave her a 1/2 tablet of Benadryl. the bumps went down later on that night. she did this when she received her distemper shot yrs.ago too. Do you recommend a 1/2 tablet of Benadryl also? If so, do i give it to her before or wait until after the shot?

A:  I would ask your veterinarian what they prefer.

It sounds like your dog is mildly sensitive to vaccines.  I would speak with your veterinarian to determine what his/her protocol is.  Sometimes the veterinarian will administer an injection of Benadryl at the time of the vaccine and recommend the oral medications to start several hours after the vaccine is given.  If your veterinarian does not give this injection, I would recommend giving the Benadryl (1/2 a tablet is correct for your size dog) to your dog prior to the vaccination and within a few hours of the vaccine, in order to prevent a reaction.  The Benadryl can be given every 8-12 hours.

Some dogs, especially the smaller dogs, can have a severe reaction to a vaccine, causing facial swelling, collapse, and sometimes vomiting.  Any abnormal signs should be brought to your veterinarian's attention immediately.