What are the symptoms of an infection in a dog? Here’s What to Do Next

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Does My Dog Have An Infection?

Here are a few signs that your dog may be harboring an infection. Be sure to alert your veterinarian if you notice any of these changes:

If your dog’s “smells” begin to change, it could be sign of something serious. This can range from:

  • Terrible breath
  • Unusually smelly urine or feces
  • General body odor (such as your pet’s coat)

    • While some scents can change due to diet or environment, this is definitely something you want to take note of.

    Have you noticed a shift in their general attitude? Pet parents report their dog’s personality taking a hit when they are feeling under the weather. Such changes consist of:

  • Hiding or isolation
  • Sudden development of new fears
  • Paying much attention to (looking, licking, etc.) to any part of the body
  • SuddenÂ
  • Lethargy
  • Dullness of response to you or day-to-day life
  • Blank stare

    • Symptoms of Bacterial Infection (Streptococcus) in Dogs

    Although there are many symptoms of a bacterial infection from Streptococcus canis bacteria, these are the most common ones:

  • High body temperature
  • Sores and abscesses on the dog’s skin
  • Infected cuts
  • Refusing to eat food
  • Coughing
  • Nasal discharge
  • Throwing up
  • Obviously infected areas of skin, ears, and eyes.
  • Urinary tract or respiratory system infection
  • Inflammation and redness
  • Abrasions
  • Difficulty walking
  • Painful urination
  • Weakness
  • Refusal to play or exercise
  • Excessive sleepiness

    • Types

  • Skin Infection – Lesions and abscesses on skin anywhere on the body
  • Throat Infection – Pain when eating and drinking, refusing food and water
  • Urinary Tract Infection – Pain with urination, frequent urination, blood in urine
  • Respiratory Infection – Coughing, vomiting, high fever, breathing difficulty
  • Sinus Infection – Runny nose and watery eyes

    • Treatment of Bacterial Infection of the Skin in Dogs

    Most dogs with pyoderma will be treated with an oral antibiotic as well as topical sprays and shampoos. Many different antibiotics may be prescribed. The veterinarian will choose the one that best fits your dog’s infection. Antibiotic treatment will last from 2 to 6 weeks. Your dog will need to continue taking the medication at least a week after the symptoms of infection have been resolved in order to ensure that bacteria don’t survive and develop resistance.

    Your will need to bathe your dog with a medicated shampoo several times a week during treatment. Dogs with severe, deep, pyoderma may need to be shampooed daily. Your veterinarian may prescribe a shampoo containing benzoyl peroxide, chlorhexidine, or another antiseptic agent. A topical antibacterial ointment or spray will likely be prescribed also.

    To avoid recurrence, treatment will also need to focus on the underlying cause. The veterinarian will prescribe medication to treat hypothyroidism or Cushing’s disease. Different treatment could be needed depending on the cause of these conditions. If a food allergy is suspected, the veterinarian may recommend a diet change or suggest eliminating different foods to find the cause of the allergy. Treatment may also be needed for fungal infection, parasites, or fleas.

    Worried about the cost of Bacterial Infection Of The Skin treatment?

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    Dog bladder infection or Dog urinary tract infection (UTI). Symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment!

    People have often called dogs “mans’ best friend”, and if you own a dog, you will find that it is the gospel truth. Dogs provide their owners with comfort and companionship, and in return, the owners care and protect the dog from any adversaries. However, as a dog owner, you can only do so much to protect your dog, and in the end, some problems would still surface.

    One of the most common problems associated with dogs is a skin infection. The skin infection may be a result of allergies, insect bites, or bacterial/fungal infections. Skin infection is an awful experience that causes pain and discomfort to your dogs. If left untreated, the infection might go from mild to severe and put your dog’s life on the line. Hence, whenever you notice any discomfort in your dog, call a vet’s attention immediately.