Steroids and antibiotics are typically used to treat muscle injuries and allergies in dogs. They can also be used to lower inflammation and fight infections that may cause nerve or brain damage in a dog. However, they can also cause problems of their own.
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What Types of Steroids Are Used
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There are two primary types of steroids. Anabolic steroids are not often used in dogs, but anti-inflammatory steroids are much more commonly used.
Antibiotics in Dogs
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Antibiotics are medicines that kill bacteria that are harming the dog. Bacteria cultures are done to find the correct antibiotic to use on the dog to limit potential problems.
Benefits of Steroids
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The use of a steroid can speed up the healing process in a dog. The use of a steroid can also help to decrease the inflammation of an area to allow for faster recovery as the affected area does not bother the pet as much.
Benefits of Antibiotics
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Antibiotics can help significantly in the healing process for an injured or sick dog in that they destroy bacteria that can cause infections and tax the body and immune system.
Side Effects to Steroids
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Steroids can cause an increase in activity levels and thirst in dogs. Rarely mood or behavioral changes have been noted in dogs that is similar to "roid rage" in people.
Side Effects of Antibiotics
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Allergic reactions can occur when a dog is given antibiotics. In addition, dogs on antibiotics may develop toxicity and the bacteria may develop immunities to the medication if given too frequently.
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