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Which Antibiotic for Dogs Has Risky Side Effects?

also see Amoxicillin for Dogs

also see Veterinary Antibiotics

also see Dog Antibiotics 

also see Amoxicillin for Dogs 

also see Dog Urinary Tract Infection

Just about any antibiotic given to dogs has a potential for risky side effects. Adverse effects of antibiotics fall into three main categories: toxicity, allergic reactions and increased drug resistence of bacteria. You should monitor a dog on antibiotics closely for potential side effects.


Culturing Bacteria Determines the Right Antibiotic

Your vet will prescribe antibiotics only if a suspected infection in your dog is confirmed by laboratory tests. Administering antibiotics unnecessarily or incorrectly can lead to overexposure of your dog to these drugs, decreasing their effectiveness. Your vet will likely perform a culture and susceptibility test, which involves culturing a sample of bacteria taken from your dog, then gauging different antibiotics' abilities to kill the bacteria. In this way, the vet can determine which strain of bacteria is causing the infection and then choose the appropriate antibiotic regimen for your dog.

Antibiotics and Their Side Effects

You should notify your vet if your dog experiences adverse affects from antibiotics. Here's a list of commonly prescribed antibiotics and possible side effects:

The goal in giving antibiotics to your dog is maximizing benefits while minimizing risks. Administering the right antibiotic at the right dosage is key. Always have your dog finish the entire prescription. And, never give your dog any antibiotic prescribed to another pet or to a human.

also see Ear Mites in Dogs: What They are and What you can do About Them

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also see Dog Medicine: Can it be Hazardous to Your Dog’s Health?