Like humans, dogs can develop bacterial infections that require treatment with antibiotics. Also called antibacterial drugs, antibiotics are essential for the treatment of infections suspected to be caused by pathogenic bacteria.
Generally, antibiotics are classified into bacteriostatic and bactericidal. Bacteriostatic antibiotics inhibit the growth and proliferation of bacteria, while bactericidal drugs kill the microorganisms.
When your pet has a medical condition, your veterinarian might prescribe one or more medications intended to manage, treat or cure the problem, according to Wedgewood Pharmacy. Although there are some veterinary-specific drugs, many of the drugs used in veterinary medicine are the same as those used in people.
Top Generic Antibiotics for Dogs
The following antibiotics are the most commonly used types of medications in dogs for bacterial infections, according to Dr. Evan Ware, a veterinary practitioner in Phoenix, Arizona. However, by no means, the following drugs are a complete list of all of the types of antibiotics used by vets.
- Generic Amoxicillin/Clavulanate
A combination of generic amoxicillin (a penicillin-type antibiotic) and clavulanate a broad-spectrum antibiotic for a variety of bacterial infections, including skin infections and infections of the respiratory organs, gastrointestinal system, and genitourinary tract.
- Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim (Generic Bactrim)
Sold under the brand name Bactrim, Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim is used for the treatment of urinary tract infections in dogs. Generic Bactrim could affect a dog’s gastrointestinal system and may cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite. Dogs should be given plenty of water when they are on Generic Bactrim.
- Generic Gentamicin (Garamycin)
Sold under the brand name Garamycin, gentamicin is prescribed for the treatment of bacterial eye infections, ear infections, and pneumonia in dogs. Generally, generic gentamicin is prescribed along with anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce redness, swelling, and tenderness.
- Generic Tetracycline
Tetracycline is yet another safe and effective antibiotic for dogs with a variety of bacterial infections. Typically, generic tetracycline is used whenever other antibiotics fail to work.
- Generic Chloramphenicol (Chloromycetin)
Chloramphenicol is a safe and effective antibacterial drug for dogs because it has a level of pH that can be safe enough for it to completely pass through your dog’s body, according to Wedgwood Pharmacy. It is one of the top choices of generic antibiotics in dogs with certain bacterial infections. It is important to take your dog to a veterinarian for a physical examination if you notice any signs of infection. Bacterial infections are not something one can treat using over-the-counter generic antibiotics bought from an online pharmacy. Some infections could be life-threatening and must be treated under the supervision of a vet.
