Amoxicillin, (with brand names Amoxil®, Bimox®, Moxatag®, Novamoxin®)) is a major part of dog medication. It is an effective antibiotic administered for the treatment of various bacterial infections in dogs. Amoxicillin is an upgrade to penicillin antibiotics noted for its broader range of activity and higher resistance to stomach acids.
This article covers the usage of amoxicillin for your dog without a vet prescription, why you might need it, what the risks associated with using it without a prescription are, and how much to give your dog.
Is Amoxicillin Safe For Dogs?
Amoxicillin is a safe and well-tolerated antibiotic for dogs; it can help clear up infections caused by bacteria. It can be administered without a veterinarian’s prescription. Amoxicillin should be used by following strict instructions to avoid risking the health of your dog and putting the dog at risk of detrimental side effects.
What Is Amoxicillin Used For In Dogs
Amoxicillin antibiotic is used as a treatment for many types of bacterial infections in dogs, such as:
- Skin infections: Mange, Ringworm, Red or inflamed skin, etc.
- Ear infections: Otitis externa, media, and interna.
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs): Bladder Infection and Kidney Infection.
- Respiratory tract infections: Pneumonia, Chronic Bronchitis, etc.
It does not treat viral infections such as distemper or kennel cough though.
Amoxicillin works by inhibiting the growth of bacteria. It does this by interfering with the production of cell walls in bacteria. When the bacteria’s cell wall doesn’t form properly, it bursts and dies.
Amoxicillin is often prescribed alongside other medications to treat more severe infections or when there is another underlying condition that needs to be treated at the same time. Amoxicillin for dogs comes in tablet and suspension form and can be given by mouth.
Amoxicillin Side Effects In Dogs
Like other dog medications, there are some side effects that may occur with amoxicillin use in dogs. The common side effects of Amoxicillin in dogs include:
- diarrhea
- nausea
- vomiting
- stomach pain
- skin rash, or allergy.
- kidney failure
If you notice your dog having any of these symptoms while taking amoxicillin, contact your veterinarian immediately.
How is Amoxicillin Given To Dogs?
Amoxicillin is given to dogs by mouth in the form of a tablet, or liquid suspension. It can be given with or without food. If by chance, the dog vomits after giving on an empty stomach, give subsequent doses with food. Amoxicillin is given to dogs at a recommended dose of 5 mg per pound body weight and should be administered two times a day and it can be given with or without food. Amoxicillin starts working within 1 to 3 hours of usage.
Follow the dosage instruction that comes with it carefully to avoid overdose or misuse.
How Often Should I Give My Dog Amoxicillin?
Amoxicillin can be given to dogs twice daily for 7-14 days. You can give your dog amoxicillin on an empty stomach, or with food—whatever makes your dog comfortable.
Dog Amoxicillin Vs Human Amoxicillin
The difference between dog amoxicillin and human amoxicillin is more about how each is presented and the concentration. Amoxicillin is the same, the active ingredients in dog amoxicillin and human amoxicillin are the same but the concentration and presentation of each are different.
Amoxicillin is available sizes capsules are different between the species. Unlike human amoxicillin which comes in capsules, dog amoxicillin comes in a bland basic tablet form, usually meat flavored to enhance intake. Dog amoxicillin normally comes as a large tablet that is different to swallow by humans. Human Amoxicillin contains inactive substances such as colorants or preservatives that can be dangerous for dogs to use.
The concentration of dog amoxicillin is different from that of human amoxicillin. This is a major difference between dog amoxicillin and human amoxicillin. For instance, Amoxicillin 500mg is used by humans and not recommended for dogs and other pets. 5 mg of amoxicillin per pound body weight is what is required for dogs. Human amoxicillin contains higher concentrations which makes it toxic for dogs. It is advisable to get pet-graded amoxicillin for your dogs.
Can I Give My Dog Human Amoxicillin 500mg?
No, You should not give your dog Amoxicillin 500mg.
The Amoxicillin 500mg dosage is only used by humans and can be fatal for pets. Human amoxicillin is not the right antibiotic for your dog’s infection treatment, it may contain inactive ingredients, high concentrations, colors, or preservatives that can be dangerous for your dog.
Where Can I Buy Amoxicillin For Dogs
Amoxicillin for dogs can be purchased over the counter at pet stores, or online stores. When purchasing amoxicillin for your dog from a pet store it’s important you read all labels carefully before giving any medication to your dog.
Final Thoughts,
We hope our article helped you to understand the usage of Amoxicillin for dogs and how it can help your dog. You can leave a comment below provided you need assistance regarding the usage of Amoxicillin and other antibiotics for dogs.