Amoxicillin antibiotics, marketed as Amoxil®, Bimox®, Moxatag®, Novamoxin®, is one of the best medications used for the treatment and prevention of Lyme disease in dog.
Amoxicillin kills the bacteria causing Lyme disease by inhibiting the production of cell walls. Amoxicillin is usually administered orally in dogs with Lyme disease. The Amoxicillin dosage for dogs with Lyme disease is quite variable, depending on the size of your dog and the severity of its symptoms.
What is Lyme Disease in Dogs?
Canine Lyme disease is a tick-borne infection that affects dogs. Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi. It is transmitted to dogs through the bite of infected black-legged ticks. Lyme disease can affect dogs, cats, horses, and humans.
Lyme disease causes painful inflammation, which can lead to serious heart problems and neurological disorders. Fortunately, there are many antibiotics available, like Cefovecin, that will help your dog with this condition.
Dogs with Lyme disease may also have a rash on their skin that looks like a bull’s eye or target pattern. This rash appears in patches and is often accompanied by swelling around the affected area.
Symptoms of Lyme Disease in Dogs
Lyme Disease is a bacterial infection of the skin and/or joints that can affect many dogs. The most common symptoms of Lyme Disease in dogs include:
- A fever
- Swollen lymph nodes
- A rash, which can be anywhere on the body and is different for each dog
- Joint pain (arthritis) or lameness (arthralgia)
- Loss of appetite
Amoxicillin Dosage For Dogs With Lyme Disease
Amoxicillin is one of the best medications for Lyme disease in dogs. The dosage and duration of the medication are prescribed considering the severity of the infection, the dog’s weight, and the veterinarian’s assessment.
Dogs with Lyme disease should be given amoxicillin at a dose of 10 mg per pound of body weight every 12 hours for 10 days. Give dogs amoxicillin for Lyme disease treatment according to the directions on the package.
It is best to give a dog with Lyme disease Amoxicillin before eating. However, if your dog vomits after taking Amoxicillin, subsequent medication should be given after eating.
Side Effects of Amoxicillin on Dogs
The side effects of amoxicillin on dogs can include:
- Diarrhea
- An upset stomach
- Lethargy
- Fever
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Rash or hives on the skin
- Swelling of the mouth, face, lips and tongue
It’s important to monitor your dog for any changes in their behavior or appearance.
What Happens If My Dog Missed a Day
There are times when your dog misses a dosage of Lyme disease medication due to unforeseen circumstances. You should not worry if your dog missed a day when giving Amoxicillin for dog Lyme disease treatment, simply proceed with the normal medication the following day till the dose is completed.
How To Prevent Lyme Disease In Dogs
Lyme disease in dogs can be prevented through the following practices:
- Avoiding tick-infested areas around your home or yard.
- Use repellent and shampoo to prevent ticks from attaching to your dog.
- Keep them up-to-date on vaccinations and vaccination boosters
- Cleaning your dog’s body after they come indoors or into direct sunlight.
- Checking your dog’s skin daily for signs of tick attachment or redness.
Read This: Amoxicillin For Dogs Without Vet Prescription: Usage Guide
Final Thoughts,
The dosage of Amoxicillin given to dogs with Lyme disease should be strictly adhered to and you must be sure you are treating a Lyme disease. Consult the veterinarian for a proper diagnosis of Lyme disease in dogs.