Can You Put Antibiotic Ointment On A Dog? — Easy Pet Care
The sense of responsibility and assurance that comes with having a pet dog can make us stronger, more confident, and be better as a person. They can make you happy, provide comfort, and, most of all, guard you and your whole family. But what if they get injured? You have to do things fast to prevent infection. The question is, can you put an antibiotic ointment on a dog?
What is an Antibiotic Ointment?
An antibiotic ointment is a type of antimicrobial substance that fights bacterial infections. They are widely used in the treatment and prevention of such infections. They are very helpful in a way that they either kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria, with proper usage.
Antibiotics slow down AND destroy bacteria. They include a variety of powerful drugs and are used to treat diseases caused by bacteria. It can often be seen in first aid kits for immediate application in case of an emergency. You may be familiar with Neosporin. It is medicine made up of three antibiotic components: bacitracin, neomycin, and polymyxin B. They work together to stop the growth of harmful bacteria on the skin. Plus, it prevents an infection from developing in small cuts and scrapes. It also creates a physical barrier on the skin to prevent bacteria from entering the wound.
Can You Put Antibiotic Ointment on a Dog?
Veterinarians say that the components of Neosporin are generally considered safe for dogs. Some small amount of Neosporin applied to a minor cut, or scrape won't cause any harm. However, it's not necessary to put on the ointment to every small wound that your dog experiences. It won't hurt your dog and can help prevent infection and make your dog a little more comfortable, but it's not required.
Keep in mind that the many dogs tend to lick the Neosporin after you've applied it. Watch for it and, as much as possible, prevent them from licking the ointment so they could be fine. Ingesting large amounts of Neosporin or swallowing a small bit won't probably cause any harm, but don't take the risk.
There are particular that dogs might have an allergic reaction to Neosporin or one of its active components. To try, it's a good idea to dab a small amount on a test area first, then see if inflammation or any rash occurs. If it reacts otherwise, know when to stop immediately.
Examples of serious wounds include any open wounds that are bleeding profusely, puncture wounds, deep wounds or cuts, broken bones, burns. There are available antibiotics for dogs. The most common antibiotic medicines are Amoxicillin, which is mainly used to treat skin and tissue infections. A certain kind, called Clindamycin, is often used to control bacterial and soft tissue infections quickly. Proxetil is a commonly prescribed drug to treat bacterial infections originating from wounds. But you must also remember that if your dog suffers an injury that is more serious compared to a small scrape or cut, contact your veterinarian because it's always best to consider safety first.
How to Apply Antibiotic Ointment on Your Dog
As much as possible, clip hair around the wound area on your dog. This procedure will keep potential infectious substances or elements away from the wound. You must prevent the ointment from being absorbed by the hair instead of the skin. As with humans, a triple antibiotic ointment should be applied up to three times daily for no longer than one week.
You have to keep yourself relaxed and do the trick like a pro. Gently apply the ointment to the wound several times a day, and prevent your dog from licking it for at least 15 minutes. Never use this in your dog's eyes. For a more severe wound or puncture, you can apply the antibiotic ointment to seal the wound while you take your dog to a veterinarian or animal hospital.
You can safely use the prescribed antibiotic ointment to treat your dog's minor cuts, scrapes, abrasions, and skin dermatitis or allergies. Keep this ointment home. Putting them on another first-aid kit is useful to help. Many dogs don't experience side effects from this, but if the worst allergic reactions do appear, you know where to contact your vet.
Conclusion
You do not need to be a licensed veterinarian to take care of your dog when they are sick. You have to know the basics. As much as we need our dogs, they also require us to be there for them. You must know what to do when your dog gets injured. Can you put an antibiotic ointment on a dog? Yes, you can, and your dog will thank you a lot for it. As long as you know the proper use of these medicines, it can save your best friend.
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