What is Amoxicillin?
I'm glad you asked! Amoxicillin is an antibiotic that falls in the same medical category as penicillin. It is used to treat various types of common infections such as strep throat, ear infections, skin and respiratory infections just to name a few. Like any other antibiotic, Amoxicillin should only be taken when prescribed by a qualified physician. We have all had one ore more of these types of infections, so there is a high probability there are still a few doses left in the medicine cabinet. naturally, we begin to ask ourself, "Can I give my dog amoxicillin for infections instead of going to a veterinarian and running up my pet expenses?"
Can I Give My Dog Amoxicillin?
Well, for starters, it is never a good idea to give your dog any medications without consulting a veterinarian first. Nearly all medications have some form of side affects that could be potentially dangerous for your dog. Amoxicillin, in small doses may generally be permissible, but also may not cure the ailment the way regular pet medication would. Amoxicillin is known to cause diahrrea in people, so it is highly likely that your pup will develop the same. Therefore, it is highly important that you keep your dog hydrated if you give it to him. It is also possible that amoxicillin can cause your dog to have a seizure, which is why you really should take him to the vet instead.
In any case, if you decide to give your dog amoxicillin, make sure you only give small dosages at least 4 hours apart. Also, make sure you do it at a time where you can monitor your pet for any complications. You don't want to give your dog amoxicillin before you go to work in the morning and leave him alone all day. You just may come home to a huge mess, if you know what I mean, or worse, a deceased pup.
As always, I encourage you to seek professional treatment for your dog, but understand that many are struggling financially at this time. In most cases, your dog will be fine with just a few doses of amoxicillin for a short amount of time. If your dog does not improve from his ailment within a day or two, discontinue the amoxicillin for sure and take your pet to a vet as soon as you are able.
