Has your vet prescribed Amoxicillin for your dog? This is a common antibiotic that many vets use in both dogs and cats to treat many different bacterial infections. It is effective at treating multiple conditions and is a safe and inexpensive choice for treating a bacterial infection in your dog.
Amoxicillin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that your vet prescribes to your dog for a bacterial infection. Broad-spectrum means that this medication can treat gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria. These are the two different types of bacteria that can be found in your dog.
Amoxicillin works by attacking the formation of the cell wall of the bacteria cells. This means that it can kill bacteria and even help prevent new bacteria from being able to form.
Your vet prescribes your dog Amoxicillin to help with the following conditions:
This is also given for other reasons, but these are some of the most common issues that vets prescribe this medication. Amoxicillin is a first-choice antibiotic for many different infections. If these infections do not quickly clear up, your veterinarian may recommend culturing this area and starting your dog on a higher-powered antibiotic.
This medication may be a tablet, a capsule, or a liquid that you give to your dog by mouth. You can hide the tablet in a doggy treat, in cheese, or other dog food to help encourage your dog to take this medication. If your dog spits out the pill, gently keep it in the dog’s mouth to ensure your four-legged buddy swallows it.
If your dog has been prescribed this medication, it is always recommended to give the entire prescription. Part of any wellness plan is completing the medication prescribed. Unless your vet tells you otherwise. This helps decrease your chance of causing cause your dog to develop antibiotic resistance.
Amoxicillin is dosed based on your dog’s body weight and what infection your vet is trying to treat. A typical dosage used by many vets is 5 to 10mg per pound. This means a 50-pound dog would need to take 500mg twice a day.
This is usually given for 10 to 14 days. Sometimes this may even be given longer. Amoxicillin starts working in your dog and continues for 12 to 24 hours. Make sure that you do give your dog the entire course of antibiotics to prevent your dog from developing a resistant bacterial infection.
The most common side effect of your dog taking Amoxicillin is with the gastrointestinal tract. If your dog is vomiting, this can be from taking Amoxicillin without giving your dog any food. Other signs that are seen are:
Antibiotics can kill the natural gut flora. Some dogs who experience GI issues when taking antibiotics may be given probiotics to help replace the normal gut flora.
Suppose your dog has facial swelling or difficulty breathing after taking Amoxicillin. In that case, it is best to stop giving this medication and contact your vet immediately as this can be a severe allergic reaction. Usually, these issues will go away after about 24 hours.
Ensuring your furry friend gets the proper nutrients is vital for their well-being, and the best multivitamins can play a crucial role. Look for supplements designed for your pet’s species and size, providing a balanced mix of essential vitamins and minerals. These can support overall health, boost their immune system, and fill nutritional gaps in their diet.
Amoxicillin is a safe and effective antibiotic that is commonly given to dogs for many different issues. If you are having any issues giving your dog this medication or noticing any side effects of your dog taking this medication, stop giving the medication and call your vet or the nearest veterinary emergency clinic right away.
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The medical, nutritional, or behavioral advice we provide is intended for informational and educational purposes only. Our editorial content is not a substitute for formal or personalized medical advice from a veterinary professional. Only board-certified veterinary specialists who have examined your pet should diagnose medical conditions, provide personalized treatment, or prescribe appropriate medication. For questions regarding your pet’s health, or if your pet is exhibiting signs of illness, injury, or distress, contact your veterinarian immediately. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on our site.
