Metronidazole for Dogs: Dosage, Side Effects, Overdose

In the world of veterinary medicine, there are a number of different medications that can be given to pets to prevent and treat infections. One such medication that is often prescribed in dogs is metronidazole. While this treatment is not FDA approved, it is still offered consistently by veterinarians due to the positive effect it has when it comes to treating infections.

In this article, we shall briefly discuss the use of metronidazole in treating dogs.

What is metronidazole?

Metronidazole is an antibiotic that is used to manage anaerobic bacteria and protozoan infections. It is utilised in a number of different clinical conditions but in particular, metronidazole is often used as a treatment for Giardia infections in dogs. In addition to this, it is also a useful treatment in managing inflammation of the bowel as well. Indications also extend to managing oral infections and dental disease.

How is metronidazole prescribed?

Prior to prescribing any medication, tests may need to be conducted to help diagnose the underlying illness the dog. Treatment is only available on prescription by veterinary surgeon. In dogs, the doses depend upon the weight of the dog and often vary between 3 mg to 23 mg per pound of the dog’s weight. It is administered up to 4 times a day depending on the actual requirement. The duration of treatment will be decided by the veterinarian.

Are there any side-effects?

Unfortunately, as is the case with any medication, metronidazole is also associated with side-effects. Serious side-effects include an allergic reaction to the drug which is evident as swelling of the lips or tongue, source inside the mouth, diarrhoea and fever. Dry mouth is also an observed side-effect. It is important to keep an eye out for these to ensure that timely treatment is given to your pet if they do occur.

It is important to also make a note of the fact that metronidazole can interact with a number of different drugs as well. If your dog is taking any other medication, it is important to inform you veterinarian regarding this so that adequate precautions can be taken and the drug not be prescribed if interactions are predictable.

Missing a dose or overdosing accidentally

It can happen at times where your dog has been given an accidental overdose or as Mr does of metronidazole. In the event of this occurring, it is essential that you seek the advice were veterinarian as soon as possible. If a dose has been missed, the usual recommendation is to give the pet its next dose as scheduled. Avoid giving double the dose as this can result in an overdose rather than having double the effect that one would hope it would achieve.

Metronidazole is a commonly used medication in managing bowel infections in dogs. Treatment should only be offered following examination by a veterinarian and should be given to the dog for the prescribed duration of time and at the prescribed dose. In the event of any side-effects occurring, it is essential for the owner to take the dog to the veterinarian as soon as possible to seek further advice and treatment.