Antibiotics for Dogs

Dogs, like humans, are quite susceptible to a variety of bacterial infections in different parts of the body. Respiratory infections, gastrointestinal infections, genitourinary infections, tissue and skin infections are common in dogs and hence the use of antibiotics for dogs to prevent or cure these conditions becomes inevitable. In this article, we shall see some antibiotics that are safe for use in dogs.

Commonly Used Antibiotics for Dogs

Antibiotics are derived from bacteria or other natural sources and are used to fight against other harmful microorganisms. They are chemically modified to inhibit the growth of certain disease causing microbes. Here is list of antibiotics for canines and the infections that they are used for. Have a look...

Amoxicillin
Amoxicillin belongs to the penicillin class of antibiotics and is often used to treat a variety of microbial infections such as gastrointestinal infections, respiratory infections and genitourinary infections.Amoxicillin for dogs can also be used to treat tissue and skin infections.

Cephalexin
This is another one from the penicillin class of antibiotics. It is used to treat a number of bacteria affecting the dogs. It is generally used to treat bacterial infections in dogs such as that of the bone, skin and wounds present on the dog's body. Cephalexin is sometimes used to treat respiratory and bladder infections.

Clavamox
Clavamox is actually a combination of amoxicillin and clavulanic acid. It is almost similar in action to amoxicillin. The only difference between the two drugs is that clavamox is much stronger than amoxicillin and it can offer protection against the staphylococci bacteria. It can also be used to treat respiratory and ear infections in dogs.

Gentamicin
Gentamicin belongs to the aminoglycoside class of antibiotics. It is commonly used to treat conditions like conjunctivitis, pneumonia, ear infections and open wound infections in dogs. It is available as gentocin and otomax, which contain a combination of gentamicin and some anti-inflammatory and antifungal medications. Gentamicin can cause serious side effects when taken internally and hence is used only topically.

Doxycycline
A member of the tetracycline family of antibiotics, Doxycycline, provides antibacterial protection, by inhibiting the process of bacterial protein synthesis. It has a modified structure that facilitates its penetration into the biological barriers in the body and thus increases its effect and duration of action.

Sulfamethox
Sulfamethox is used to treat gastrointestinal infections, urinary infections, respiratory infections and a number of canine skin diseases. It is generally combined with trimethoprim to enhance the effect. This antibiotic may cause some side effects like vomiting, diarrhea and loss of appetite. It is therefore important to monitor that your dog drinks enough water while on this antibiotic.

Natural Antibiotics for Dogs

Certain antibiotics can have adverse effects on the body and can cause serious health hazards. Many pet owners, therefore, stick to the use of natural antibiotics for dogs. You can use these antibiotics for dogs without a prescription. They are safe and free from any side effects. Some examples include:

• Garlic - Garlic for dogs can be used to treat internal parasites, staph infections and is also beneficial for cancer, diabetes, heart diseases and kidney dysfunction.
• Brewer's yeast - It prevents the growth of undesirable bacteria and is effective against several viral infections.
• Wheatgrass - It is packed with a lot of essential nutrients and helps fight a number of disease causing microorganisms.
• Licorice root - It has antiviral, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and is effective against staph infections.

These were some examples of antibiotics for dogs. Make sure that the dog is given the appropriate dosage as prescribed by the veterinarian. This is extremely important to ensure good health of your dog!