Internal Infections in Dogs
Infections in Dogs
Infections are a common problem for dogs and can be caused by bacteria or fungi or viruses. Infections might be external or internal and will often require treatment with an appropriate medication that can only be prescribed by a veterinarian.
Internal Infections
Internal infections may be more difficult to spot than external infections because the owner cannot always see the signs. Like humans, animals can be affected by a variety of internal infections, with some of the most common being:
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Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
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Gastrointestinal infections
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Respiratory infections
Signs of infection can include (but are not limited to):
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High body temperature
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Decreased energy or change of behavior
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Decreased appetite
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Changes in breathing
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Vomiting or diarrhea
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Blood in feces or urine
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Increased frequency of urination
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Coughing or sneezing
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Discharge from the eyes or nose
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Signs that your animal may be in pain
Learn more on our Pain in Dogs page.
If you are worried that your dog might have an infection, always consult a veterinarian as soon as possible.
Post-Surgery Infections
Any kind of surgery poses the risk of infection, although some procedures are more high risk than others. If your veterinarian feels that there is a high likelihood of infection occurring after surgery, he or she may administer an antibiotic before starting the procedure. Your veterinarian may prescribe ongoing oral antibiotics after surgery if he or she feels it necessary.
Treatment
Treatment for both internal and external infections can only be prescribed by a veterinarian. Your veterinarian will conduct a full clinical examination, which may include further diagnostics such as blood work, urinalysis, or imaging, before deciding upon an appropriate treatment protocol.
It is important to always administer medications according to the prescription instructions and finish the full course or antibiotics. Not doing so, could result in a treatment failure or a worsening of the condition you are trying to treat.
Antibiotic Resistance
Antibiotic or antimicrobial resistance is a global concern for human and animal health. Due in part to overuse and misuse, some antibiotics are losing their effectiveness against bacteria that they were once able to treat. This means that some antibiotics may no longer be effective at killing or disabling bacteria, leading to worsening of an infection.
Responsible use of antibiotics is extremely important for the future of human and animal health. This means that if antibiotics are prescribed, they should be given to the patient intended as per the prescription instructions and for the full duration of time.
Treating Internal Infections in Dogs
Norbrook® offers a broad-spectrum antibiotic in both an oral chewable tablet and injectable formulation.
Safety Information
Enroflox® (enrofloxacin) Chewable Tablets
CAUTION: Federal (U.S.A.) law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian. In rare instances, use of this product in cats has been associated with retinal toxicity. Do not exceed 2.27 mg/lb of body weight per day in cats. Observe label directions and see product labeling here for full product information.
Enroflox® (enrofloxacin) Injection for Dogs 2.27%
CAUTION: Federal (U.S.A.) law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian. Federal law prohibits the extralabel use of this drug in food-producing animals. CONTRAINDICATIONS: Enrofloxacin is contraindicated in dogs known to be hypersensitive to quinolones. The safe use of enrofloxacin has not been established in large and giant breeds during the rapid growth phase. The use of enrofloxacin is contraindicated in small and medium breed dogs during the rapid growth phase (between 2 and 8 months of age). WARNINGS: For use in animals only. The use of this product in cats may result in retinal toxicity. Keep out of reach of children. Observe label directions and see product labeling here for full product information.
The Norbrook logo and Enroflox are registered trademarks of Norbrook Laboratories Limited.
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