Antibiotics For Yeast Infection In Dogs

How A Yeast Infection Gets Diagnosed

Vets diagnose yeast infections in dogs through a combination of physical exam findings and simple lab tests. Your vet will take a sample from the surface of your dog’s skin or swab the ear, stain it and look at it under the microscope. Yeasts are easily identifiable under the microscope.

If your vet suspects an underlying condition that’s contributing to your dog’s yeast woes, then they’ll likely recommend additional testing to determine the root cause.

Different Kinds Of Antibiotics For Yeast Infection In Dogs

Not all antibiotics are created equal. Some are more effective against certain infections than others, and some work better for particular types of bacteria than others.

Antibiotics like Cephalexin, Enrofloxacin, and Clindamycin are generally considered to be the best choice for treating yeast infections in dogs because they are effective against the yeast itself as well as the opportunistic bacteria that commonly cause secondary infections with yeast. Trimethoprim-Sulfa is also an excellent choice if your dog responds well to this type of antibiotic .

What Is The Prognosis For Yeast Dermatitis

The prognosis for yeast dermatitis is generally good. While the condition usually requires long-term treatment, the majority of cases respond favorably and the itching is reduced within a week of beginning therapy.

“In cases with underlying allergies or immune compromise, the prognosis is based on the ability to control those conditions.”

In cases with underlying allergies or immune compromise, the prognosis is based on the ability to control those conditions. It is not uncommon for dogs with severe skin allergies to have recurrent secondary yeast or bacterial skin infections, sometimes two or three times a year. Your veterinarian will discuss a diagnostic and treatment plan for your dog to help you manage this condition.

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Change Your Dogs Diet

A yeast infection can start from the inside out, in some cases. If your dogs food is high in carbohydrates, you could be putting them at a greater risk for yeast infections.

Switch to high-quality, grain-free food. You should also cut back on dog treats, as most of them have a high carbohydrate count. If you want to give your dog a treat, choose something high in protein.

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Summary Of Yeast Infections In Dogs

Yeast infections are a common skin concern for dogs, causing itching and irritation. They typically occur in moist environments, like on the skin or in the ears or even the folds of their face. Often caused by allergies, yeast infections should be treated promptly, to avoid secondary infections and alleviate your dogs discomfort. As some dogs can be prone to recurrent yeast infections, its important to identify the root cause and take precautions ahead of time to protect their immune system.

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What Are The Signs Of A Dog Yeast Infection

Here are some signs and symptoms to watch out for if you suspect your pooch has a yeast infection:

• Itching and redness: Constant itchiness caused by the yeast infection will prompt your pet to scratch and rub different areas of the body for relief.
• Sores on the skin: You might notice circular-shaped lesions forming on your dogs skin that are itchy and sore.
• Funky odors: If your dog has a yeast problem, it might have a distinct, musty smell that wasnt present before.
• Scaly and flaky skin: Your pets skin can turn crusted and flaky, resembling dandruff.
• Changes in skin color and texture: During the early stages of the infection, your dogs skin will turn pink or red. As it gets worse, your pets skin could thicken and turn gray or black.
• Hair loss: Dogs tend to lose fur in their tail or upper back, or in the areas where the fungus develops.
• Head shaking and tilting: If your dogs ears are infected with yeast, it could prompt them tohabitually tilt and shake the head to relieve uncomfortable sensations.
• Loss of hearing: Serious cases of dog yeast development could block the ears pathways and lead to deafness.

This skin disease can develop in any part of your pets body, but common areas are your dogs paws, ears, and folded areas of skin.

Additionally, some dogs are more prone to developing this skin condition. These breeds include:

How To Get Antibiotics For Your Dog

If you suspect that your doggie has a bacterial infection, youll need to take them to the vet. The vet will be able to determine the best treatment to help your dog feel better. If the treatment is antibiotics, youll need a prescription. While you can purchase antibiotic medications online, trustworthy sites will require prescriptions to make the purchase.

A vet visit may cost $50 to $500, depending on your pet insurance and what is wrong with your pup. The cost may be higher if your vet requires skin tests to determine the issue. Larger dogs will require a higher dose of an antibiotic to treat an infection compared to a small breed dog. The cost of the antibiotic will also depend on the type of antibiotic, how often the antibiotic needs to be taken daily, and the length of treatment. If a bacterial infection is caused by a pre-existing condition, pet insurance may not cover treatments, but if you have accident and illness coverage, your pet insurance plan may cover antibiotics.

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When Are Antibiotics Needed For Dog Ear Infections

Inflammation of the ear canal may result in the overgrowth of yeast or bacterial populations that live on the skin in the ear canal normally. Antibiotics are needed for ear infections where bacterial overgrowth is identified. Not all ear infections require antibiotics. Your vet can advise on the best treatment based on their examination and diagnostic tests. It is important to follow your vets instructions closely and return for any recommended recheck appointments to ensure the infection has resolved completely. Lapses in your dogs treatment could lead to a recurrence of the infection.

Which Otc Medications Are Safe For Dogs

If your pup isnt feeling well, you could be tempted to give him medication from your medicine cabinet, but in many cases, this isnt safe. Many human drugs can cause dangerous side effects in dogs. However, there are a handful that are generally considered safe for dogs. See our article on which OTC medications are safe for dogs to learn more.

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Causes Of A Yeast Infection

A yeast infection can be caused by something that lowers the immune system response or disrupts the skin’s natural balance, causing the yeast to multiply and spread.

Below are some of the common causes of yeast infections in dogs.

Steroid Medications

Vets often treat dogs with autoimmune disorders and allergies by prescribing steroid medications. These conditions are an overreaction of the immune system. Steroids suppress the immune system, making dogs more susceptible to yeast infections because their immune systems are less able to fight off germs.

Allergies

The most common cause of a dog yeast infection is because of allergies to fleas, food, or substances in their environment. Allergies can lead to skin irritation and make skin more oily. Some dogs can develop an allergic reaction to the yeast itself.

Antibiotics

Good bacteria are also naturally present on the skin. They help keep yeast levels in balance. Antibiotics wipe out all bacteria, both good and bad. Without bacteria present, yeast numbers can rise out of control.

Underlying Medical Conditions

Some medical conditions like diabetes and seborrhea oleosa provide an environment that promotes yeast overgrowth.

Although any dog can contract a yeast infection, some dog breeds are more prone to yeast infections than others. These breeds include:

• West Highland White Terriers

Are There Alternatives To Antibiotics For Dog Ear Infections

If your dog is showing signs of an ear infection, it is important to seek veterinary advice. Do not be tempted to try and treat the ear infection at home as the infection could progress, leading to more serious problems such as a ruptured ear drum, middle ear infections, abscesses around the ear, or inner ear infections. Not all ear infections require antibiotics.

Your vet can advise on the most appropriate treatment. Ear cleansers that contain antibacterial ingredients or change the acidity of the ear canal can be used to control mild ear infections. For some infections, controlling the inflammation and removing the underlying cause is enough to allow the infection to resolve without antibiotics.

Ear infections can be painful and uncomfortable for our canine friends, so naturally, we want to resolve them as fast as possible. Seek veterinary advice promptly if you notice signs of infection with your dogs ear and follow the advice carefully to avoid problems or recurring infections. Antibiotics can be a safe and effective treatment for ear infections in dogs. However, they are not always needed. We all have a role to play in ensuring the safe and responsible use of antibiotics and in limiting serious problems such as antibiotic resistance.

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A Complete Guide To Managing Yeast Infections In Dogs

Yeast infections can crop up in the ears, paws, underarms, even the mouth. With the number of places yeast can invade, is it really any surprise that there are so many questions around the best way to beat yeast?

So, what exactly do you need to know about yeast infections? Well cover the what, why, how, and more for you including what you can do to offer your dog relief no matter where that yeast may be.

On The Agenda

How To Treat Yeast Infections In Dogs

If youre concerned about your dogs wellbeing, your first step should always be to consult a veterinarian. That being said, a yeast infection in your dog can be easily treated with topical antifungal shampoo simply by applying at the site of infection. Your vet, however, may be able to prescribe a more advanced treatment methods if problems persist or appear to worsen.

The best way to prevent yeast infections is to make sure you dry your dog thoroughly after they get out of the water, along with keeping excess hair trimmed and clean.

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What Risk Factors Increase The Likelihood Of Yeast Infection In Dogs

Here are a few risk factors that can lead to yeast infection in dogs:

• Hot, humid weather.
• Pre-existing underlying skin disease e.g. atopic dermatitis.

• Bacterial infection.
• Medication such as antibiotics or corticosteroids.

Certain dog breeds are also more predisposed to developing yeast infection. These include the Basset Hound, Shih Tzu, Golden Retriever or Cocker Spaniel.

Topical Treatment For Skin Yeast Infections

Topical treatments for canine yeast infection on the skin include shampoos, ointments, and wipes. Kelso says that using them will typically involve a few steps:

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Is There A Cure For Yeast Infection In Dogs

While yeast infections can be cured, some dogs are prone to recurrent infections. The best way to prevent a possible occurrence is to take care of your dogs immune system properly. When you treat the root of the problem, you are not only taking care of the possible yeast infection but other potential skin issues that are a result of problems that originate in the digestive tract.

Does Your Dog Breed Have Skin Folds Beware

Some dog breeds are more susceptible to developing skin infections. This is mainly because of their body traits. Unfortunately, that rolly-polly skin is a hot spot for yeast growth.

Breeds that are commonly diagnosed with yeast infections include, but are not limited to:

• German Shepherds.

Keep in mind that yeast infections in dogs are secondary to an underlying cause, and any dog can get a yeast infection if they are immunocompromised.

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Amoxicillin & Clavulanate Potassium Compound

It is the best example of a beta-lactam antibiotic drug that treats a broad range of bacterial infections in dogs, cats, other small animals, and humans .

Clavamox chewable tablets and liquid suspension contain amoxicillin and clavulanic acid that help to treat a broad range of bacterial diseases including dogs urinary tract infections, all kinds of soft tissue infections, wounds, abscesses, otitis externa, otitis media, and otitis interna, etc.

This is an FDA approved veterinary antibacterial drug. Also, its safe to use in small animals including puppies .

Clavamox tablets comes in four different strengths i.e. 62mg, 125mg, 250mg, and 375mg. Liquid 15ml oral suspension provides 62.5mg in each 01ml after reconstitution .

The recommended dose of amoxicillin trihydrate and clavulanate potassium for ear infections in dogs is 6.25mg per pound. Thats mean for a 20lb dog the ideal dose of amoxicillin and clavulanic acid should be 125mg per day. You can also give 125mg/day doses in two divided doses like 62.5mg in the morning and 62.5mg in the evening.

Like all prescription drugs, this veterinary-approved medicine should also be consumed with the great supervision of a veterinarian to avoid complications and side effects.

Preventing Yeast Infections In Dogs

Preventing yeast infections usually involves managing the underlying cause of your dogs skin complaint effectively.

Skin allergies may require regular allergy medications. Allergy testing can also be performed to try and help work out the cause of your dogs flare ups, with dietary trials being used to identify potential food triggers.

Dogs that have excess skin folds may need maintenance therapy to try to keep on top of moist areas. Medicated wipes can be useful for these animals.

Otherwise just keeping a close eye on your dogs skin and ears is a good idea, so that you can get them checked out if you notice any problems.

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How To Use Antibiotics For Yeast Infection In Dogs

Antibiotics For Yeast Infection In Dogs can be administered to dogs in the form of pills or liquid. Antibiotics For Yeast Infection In Dogs are available in both tablets and liquids, so you should choose the one that is most convenient for you to administer.

If your dog is unable to swallow the tablet whole, you may need to crush it and mix it with a small amount of food. This will make sure that he gets all of the medicine instead of just part of it if he tries eating only half of the pill at once. As long as there are no side effects from taking crushed tablets , this method should work fine.

Who Gets Yeast Infections

Any dog, no matter their age, breed, or size, can get yeast infections.

Yeast occurs naturally in several areas of the body in the nose, ears, gastrointestinal and genital tracts. Its even one of many in a complex community of oral flora inside your dogs mouth, actually. All of these areas could become culture plates under the right circumstances.

Certain breeds are more likely than others to develop grease and phlegm buildup in their ears and body, especially if they have folds.

• Wrinkly Dog Breeds, i.e., cute smooosh faces

• Floppy-Eared Breeds, i.e., droopy boops

But that simply means you should be aware that its a possibility with these breeds.

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Symptoms Of Dog Ear Infections

Some dogs do not show signs of discomfort with an ear infection, and the only external signs are a build-up of wax and discharge in the ear canal. Ear infections can affect one or both ears at the same time. Common signs of an ear injection include:

• Dark wax or discharge in the ear canal
• Foul smelling odor
• Redness and swelling of the ear canal
• Pain when the ear is touched or reluctance to allow the ear to be touched
• Head tilt to the side, which is worst affected

How To Prevent Yeast Infections In Dogs

Prevention of yeast infections in dogs must include addressing the underlying cause to reduce the likelihood that the infection will reoccur.

Routine bathing with an antifungal shampoo may be beneficial. However, for shampoo treatment to be effective, the lather must sit on a dogs skin for a minimum of 10 minutes before rinsing.

Dogs with skin folds may need to have maintenance treatment to keep these areas from becoming too moist, as yeast thrive in moist, dark places such as skin folds and ears.

Dogs that have had allergy testing and are determined to be allergic to yeast can be desensitized by including yeast as an ingredient in immunotherapy .

If you suspect that your dog has a yeast infection, consult your regular veterinarian for a diagnosis and treatment plan that is appropriate for your pet.

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Types Of Fungal Infections In Dogs

If your dog is diagnosed with a fungal infection it could be either a systematic infection or a localized infection.

Systematic fungal infections affect your dog’s major body systems, whereas localized fungal infections are typically seen on your dog’s skin or external features.

Common Systematic Fungal Infections in Dogs

Systematic fungal infections go beyond your pup’s skin and invade your dog’s inner body systems. Your dog’s lungs, nasal passages, bone or eyes could be affected by a systematic fungal infection.

Aspergillosis

In dogs, Aspergillosis is a fungal infection that is caused by a number of different Aspergillus species which are found in soil all around the world. Aspergillus is responsible for two main types of infection in dogs:

Cryptococcosis

Blastomycosis

Localized Fungal Infections in Dogs

Fungal infections affecting your pet’s skin can be tricky to recognize since the itching and scratching which is a common symptom of these infections is often mistakenly believed to be the result of dry skin or flea bites. There are two common forms of localized fungal infections commonly treated by our Tucson veterinary dermatological specialists:

Dermatophytes

Fungal Dermatitis

Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet’s condition, please make an appointment with your vet.