Clavamox is a penicillin antibiotic commonly prescribed in dogs to treat a variety of infections. It is composed of amoxicillin, a broad spectrum antibiotic, and clavulanate potassium, a substance that inhibits any resistance that bacteria might develop to amoxicillin. The combination of these two drugs is a potent defense for bacteria that might have otherwise been resistant to the effects of the amoxicillin alone.
Clavamox for dogs can be found in tablet form or in an oral suspension that must be reconstituted before use (which is usually done by a veterinary technician) and kept refrigerated.
Things You'll Need
- Clavamox tablets or drops
- Prescription bottle
- Pill Pockets or oral syringe
Instructions
Read carefully the client information sheet, which should provide details on the medication, including side effects and warnings. Read the dosage instructions found on the prescription bottle and, if you're unsure about how much to use, call your veterinarian.
Take out the Clavamox tablet/s from the prescription bottle and place each snugly inside a Pill Pocket. If using the suspension, shake the bottle vigorously and insert the prescribed amount in the oral syringe.
Call the dog over and feed him the Pill Pocket, which he should readily accept. If using with the oral syringe, insert it in the corner of the dog's mouth and gently squeeze it until it's empty. Massage the dog's throat or blow on his nostrils to encourage swallowing.
Administer the medication for as long as prescribed. Even if your dog seems to be getting better, fulfill the length of the prescription.