Antibiotics

How do antibiotics work in dogs?

Antibiotics can either inhibit the multiplication of bacteria (bacteriostatic) or kill them directly (bactericidal). Depending on the type of bacteria and the severity of the infection, the veterinarian will choose the appropriate antibiotic for your dog. Antibiotics work by disrupting certain processes in the bacterial cells, such as protein formation, DNA synthesis, or metabolism. As a result, the bacteria can no longer grow or survive and are fought off by the dog's immune system.

What antibiotics are available for dogs?

There are many different antibiotics for dogs that vary in effectiveness depending on the type of bacteria and the disease. The most common bacteria that can cause problems in dogs include:

• Escherichia coli/E. coli
• Borrelia (causes Lyme disease)
• Staphylococcus
• Pneumococcus
• Streptococci
• Toxoplasma
• Salmonella
• Anaplasma
• Leptospires
• Clostridia

A distinction is also made between gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, which differ in their cell wall structure and therefore respond differently to antibiotics. There are some antibiotics that can act as broad-spectrum antibiotics against a range of bacteria, but often targeted therapy with a specific antibiotic is more useful.

Here is a list of some common antibiotics for dogs and their indications for use:

How are antibiotics used in dogs?

Antibiotics for dogs come in various dosage forms, such as capsules, tablets, ointments, juices and powders. Often, the veterinarian will administer a shot of antibiotics to the dog in the doctor's office and owners will be given tablets to take home for further treatment. The dosage and duration of therapy depend on the type of antibiotic, the dog's weight, the severity of the infection, and the dog's response. The veterinarian will tell you exactly how to give your dog the antibiotic and how often.

It is very important that you follow the vet's instructions and do not stop or change the antibiotic on your own. Even if your dog looks better after a few days, it does not mean that the infection is completely cured. If you stop the antibiotic too early or use too low a dose, the bacteria may become resistant and the antibiotic may no longer work. This can be dangerous not only for your dog, but also for other dogs or people who may become infected with the resistant bacteria.

To increase the effectiveness of the antibiotic and reduce the side effects, you should also pay attention to the following points:

• Always give your dog the antibiotic at the same time of day and preferably not with food. Some antibiotics are better absorbed when the stomach is empty. Others should be given with some food to avoid stomach irritation. The veterinarian will tell you which applies to your antibiotic.
• Make sure your dog always has plenty of water available. This will help him excrete the antibiotic and relieve pressure on the kidneys.
• Avoid giving your dog other medications or supplements without first consulting your veterinarian. Some substances can affect the effect or tolerance of antibiotics. For example, dairy products or calcium supplements can interfere with the absorption of tetracyclines.
• Monitor your dog during therapy for possible side effects or signs of an allergic reaction. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately.

What side effects can antibiotics cause in dogs?

Antibiotics are effective medications for bacterial infections, but they are not without risk. As with any medication, antibiotics can cause side effects, which can vary depending on the dog and the antibiotic. The most common side effects include:

• Gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or loss of appetite. These can usually be alleviated by a change in diet or concomitant administration of probiotics.
• Skin reactions such as itching, redness or rash. These may indicate an intolerance or allergic reaction and should be reported to the veterinarian.
• Liver or kidney damage due to an overdose or overuse of antibiotics. These may be manifested by symptoms such as jaundice, dark urine, blood in the urine, or increased thirst. The veterinarian will do regular blood tests to check organ function.
• Blood count changes