Injectable Antibiotics for Dogs

Antibiotics help prevent the spread of infection, especially when a dog has a cut or an animal bite. Antibiotics can be safe and easy to use. It may be difficult to feed your dog an oral antibiotic, but injectable antibiotics are relatively easier to take. As with all drugs, follow the veterinarian's directions for dosing and safety precautions.

  1. Covenia

    • Covenia is usually administered by a veterinarian in his office. It eliminates the need for antibiotic medication at home. Each injection will be effective for at least two weeks. Studies show that Covenia has fewer side effects than other medications, according to the Dogster website. This antibiotic is only used to treat skin infections, wounds and abscesses.

    Baytril

    • The Bayer Pharmaceuticals Corporation makes this strong medication. The active ingredient in this antibiotic is enrofloxacin. This medication is effective against skin, ear, wound, urinary and mammary infections. It is generally only prescribed when other antibiotics have failed or when your dog has a serious infection. Injectable Baytril solution is quickly absorbed into the digestive tract and penetrates into the tissues and bodily fluids. This powerful prescription takes effect in two hours and should be administered every eight to 12 hours.

    Penicillin

    • Most bacteria are immune to penicillin, whether the infection occurs in dogs or human beings, according to the Pets Haven website. Penicillin cannot treat staph infections, for example. However, injectable penicillin may be more effective for your pet than oral penicillin. Injectable penicillin can cause an inflammatory reaction if injected incorrectly. This reaction can end up as an infection. Ask your veterinarian to help you give penicillin injections to your dog.

    Amoxicillin

    • Veterinarians give this injection to dogs eight to 12 hours before surgery in order to prevent infections, according to the Dog Channel website. This antibiotic can prevent many types of infection, except for staph infections. This medication is fine to use when expired as well. There are some risks associated with this injectable antibiotic as well, so ask the veterinarian to fully explain these risks before administering the medication.