Penicillin for Dogs

Penicillin for dogs can be prescribed for various infections, which are typically caused by bacteria. Penicillin is commonly used in human medicine, but may have various veterinary uses also. Even if penicillin can have a number of benefits, the drug may also have side effects, which can be serious. It is important to be aware of the side effects and decide if penicillin is the best course of treatment.

Uses of Penicillin for Dogs

Penicillin is among the most well known antibiotics and has been formulated for human use. However, canines can get penicillin prescriptions as well.

Penicillin can be used in canines for a few infections, especially if the infection is severe. Typically, the infections are caused by bacteria.

Common infections that can be treated with penicillin include:

• Urinary tract infections
• Respiratory infections that have affected the lungs
• Kidney infections
• Skin infections (topical creams or oral antibiotics)

The vet may also prescribe penicillin for certain fungal infection.

Penicillin Dosage for Dogs

Penicillin can only be obtained through prescription and the vet will establish the dosage. The dosage of the penicillin will be established judging by a number of factors such as:

• The severity of the infection
• The size of the dog
• The age of the dog

The penicillin can be prescribed as oral treatment or can be given in injectable form. There are also topical creams containing penicillin. Typically, the cure of penicillin will be recommended for 10 to 14 days.

Penicillin shouldn’t be administered without being recommended by the vet. Penicillin for humans should never be given to dogs, as you may give a high dose and this may be toxic, causing liver failure.

Penicillin Side Effects in Canines

Penicillin administered to dogs may have side effects that may be more serious than the initial infection. The penicillin side effects may include:

• Yeast infections, especially in the stomach or intestinal tract. The yeast cells are normally present in the intestinal tract and the stomach of the dog, but in a balanced amount with other beneficial bacteria. When the yeast cells overgrow, a yeast infection occurs and this may require a lengthy treatment with other types of antibiotics.
• Vomiting and diarrhea
• Irritable bowel disease (IBD)
• Fever
• Skin eczemas or other allergic reactions such as swelling
• Itchiness
• Skin lesions
• Halitosis
• Hair loss
• Increased white blood cells
• Resistance to drugs or antibiotics, as the bacteria can build up resistance to the drug compounds. This happens especially if the treatment is administered for a long time or if the treatment is suddenly discontinued.
• Kidney disease
• Liver damage
• Weakening the immune system, so the dog will be more exposed to various infections

Prevent Side Effects of Penicillin

The side effects of penicillin can be prevented in some cases.

Giving the dog a number of supplements can help the immune system cope with the penicillin treatment.