Antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections in dogs are specific types of infections that do not respond to antibiotics, which means that the infections cannot be stopped by usual medications. These kinds of antibiotic-resistant bacteria are also sometimes known medically as L-form bacteria.
These infections can be tricky to treat, and they can also spread to both other pets and humans.
If you see signs that your dog might be suffering from a bacterial infection, then you must consult your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and course of treatment. Here’s what you should know about the symptoms, causes, and treatments of antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections in dogs.
Symptoms Of Antibiotic-Resistant Bacterial Infections In Dogs
Veterinarians can detect antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections in dogs when they notice that common antibiotics are not working as expected.
Some of the symptoms of these infections include developing arthritis and registering a fever.
Causes Of Antibiotic-Resistant Bacterial Infections In Dogs
The main cause of antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections is natural development. This is particularly so if veterinarians prescribe antibiotics too frequently and bacteria develops resistance to the effects of the antibiotics as a survival mechanism.
When it comes to dogs, veterinarians prescribe antibiotics for certain conditions more often than others. In turn, this can increase the chances of antibiotic-resistant bacteria developing.
Some of the most common conditions that might end up opening the door for a potential L-form bacterial infection include:
- Cushing’s disease
- Skin allergies
- Diabetes
Treatments For Antibiotic-Resistant Bacterial Infections In Dogs
If you suspect that your dog might be suffering from an antibiotic-resistant bacterial infection, your veterinarian will want to physically examine your dog along with asking about any current medications they take.
In terms of definitively diagnosing an L-form bacterial infection, your vet will carry out sensitivity and culture tests.
Treating these infections in dogs can prove tricky and problematic. In many cases, properly cleaning any visible wounds with an antibiotic lotion is a starting point.
Often veterinarians will ultimately suggest a new course of antibiotics; although, due to the nature of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, there is no guarantee that the medication will provide effective treatment.
As ever, if your vet prescribes any course of antibiotics, then it is vital that you adhere to the precise dosage and frequency instructions along with completing the entire course of medicine.
Some affected dogs have also reacted well to the use of dietary probiotics; however, most evidence to date concerning the effect of probiotics is anecdotal.
Has your dog ever developed an antibiotic-resistant bacterial infection? How did your vet help treat your dog? Tell us all about it in the comments below.
