If you’re a dog owner, you probably know bacterial infections don’t just affect humans. Bacteria can be dangerous for dogs too. You have to take extra care of your dog when these infections strike. While your vet might prescribe antibiotics, there are also some things you can do at home to prevent infection in your pooch while he recovers.
Here are a few tips for preventing bacterial infections in dogs.
#1 Tell Your Vet If You Notice Any Symptoms
Your vet may not be able to diagnose the problem on the spot, but they will ask you questions and give you advice based on their findings. Not only that, but if a bacterial infection is at play, it will spread much faster if left untreated. If you don’t tell your vet that something is wrong with your dog immediately, the infection could become deadly for your pet before he or she gets proper treatment.
Vets often prescribe Cephalexin for dogs and cats for bacterial infections. This medication can help deal with all types of bacterial infections, including urinary tract infections and skin infections. Even if the vet does not suggest any pet meds, they can at least help you realize the problem and suggest what to do next.
#2 Keep Your Dog Away from People and Pets
When your dog has an infection, it’s important to keep him away from other people and pets. If your dog has an illness that could be transmitted through contact with other animals, you’ll want to avoid taking him to places where other dogs are present. Avoid public parks as well where other people might be present.
You must ensure this so that the infection does not get any worse. Bacterial infections can be mild, but they can get intense if stronger bacterial variants enter your dog’s body from the outside. So, to play things safe, it is best to avoid such contacts during this time.
#3 Keep Your Dog’s Mouth Clean and Healthy
It’s easy to forget about the bacteria that can accumulate in an animal’s mouth, but it can be a big problem. Not only does this bacteria cause bad breath, bad taste, and bad smell, but it can also lead to gum disease. Once your dog has developed gum disease, it could result in tooth loss.
One way you can help prevent this from happening is by cleaning your dog’s teeth daily with a toothbrush and dog toothpaste. Avoid using human toothpaste on them because it contains fluoride that might not be safe for dogs.
#4 Give Your Dog Fresh, Clean Water to Drink
Dogs with UTIs may not want to drink at all. If your dog is already dehydrated, he’ll need a lot of fluids to recover from an infection or other illness that causes him to have a fever and lose his appetite.
You can give him water by syringe (using a long-handled syringe) or squirt bottle if necessary. Make sure you’re giving him enough so that he won’t become even more dehydrated than before.
#5 Have a Separate Feeding Bowl for Your Dog
Even when you’re not around to supervise, your dog is likely to be tempted by whatever other people (or animals) might leave for him. This could include scraps of food, trash, or even dangerous objects. Keep an eye on what’s going into and coming out of your pet’s mouth at all times so that he doesn’t accidentally ingest something that could make him sick.
If you absolutely must give your pup a treat while he’s alone, try freezing it first. This will help prevent bacteria growth as well as keep it fresh longer so that he won’t get bored with it too quickly.
Don’t let other animals eat from his dish either. Dogs are known carriers of many gastrointestinal diseases, including E-Coli and Salmonella. So, if there is any chance that another animal might have access to the same bowl as yours, make sure they do not share any dishes with each other.
#6 Clean Your Dog’s Toys and Bedding Regularly
Make sure to clean your dog’s toys and bedding regularly, especially if he has an infection you’re treating at home. If you can’t clean the toys and bedding, throw them out. You don’t want to risk spreading the infection around your house. Always wash your hands before and after handling your pet’s belongings or touching his skin while he has an infection.
Bacterial infections are common in dogs. So, you do not have to worry about getting your pooch treated if he gets infected. However, it is always better to stay safe. So, keep these tips in mind, and act accordingly.
