Metronidazole for Dogs - Is It Safe? Dosage and Side Effects

Caring for a sick pet can pose challenges, especially if the animal does not favor taking medications or if they have additional health problems. If your dog comes down with an infection, your veterinarian might suggest starting treatment with metronidazole, an antibiotic known to fight certain infections, including those in humans.

What is Metronidazole?

Metronidazole is an antibiotic prescribed to treat the following in some animals, including dogs:

Diarrhea
Inflammation of the large intestine
Dental infections

Is it safe for dogs?

Metronidazole is not FDA-approved for animals. In some cases, veterinarians may prescribe this medication for dogs or cats, though, if they determine it is both safe and healthy to do so.

If you have concerns regarding the safety of this medication for your pet, talk with your veterinarian. There may be some cases where it is not entirely safe for your pet to take metronidazole, especially if they have a serious health condition or known medication allergies.

Dosage

For specific dosing instructions, it is essential to talk to your veterinarian. Dosing may differ for different animals depending on their size, the condition being treated and other factors.

Side Effects

In some cases, your dog may experience side effects, including but not limited to:

Digestive problems, such as diarrhea or vomiting
Drooling
Low energy
Allergic reactions, including rash, hives or changes in breathing

If your dog experiences any serious side effects, contact their veterinarian immediately.

Final Thoughts

If you believe your dog is sick, it is important to take them to your local veterinarian for optimal care. Never give your dog medication without a veterinarian’s instructions to do so.

If your dog has started treatment with metronidazole, make sure to monitor them for any side effects and always follow up with their veterinarian both during and after treatment.

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