Triple antibiotic treatment is commonly used on dogs.
It’s often said that using human medications on animals is not acceptable and should never be done. While this is mostly true, there are a few exceptions to the rule. Some antihistamines, for example, can be given to animals for the treatment of allergies. Of course, a veterinarian should be consulted prior to dosage to ensure that the proper amount is given to the pet. Triple antibiotic cream is another medication that can be administered to dogs. Triple antibiotic cream is safe for dogs because it's a topical cream and will not be ingested. Scrapes, cuts and minor skin irritation are a few conditions that can be treated with triple antibiotic cream.
Identification
Bacitracin, polymyxin and neomycin are the ingredients that make up the triple antibiotic cream. However, bacitracin, neomycin and polymyxin can be purchased as separate ointments. These creams do not make up triple antibiotic ointment unless they are combined. Alone, they are simply topical antibiotic ointments that can be used to treat different skin conditions.
Function
As with humans, triple antibiotic ointment is used to treat a variety of skin conditions that afflict dogs. The most common type of condition is minor skin irritation associated with rash. In addition, triple antibiotic ointment can be used on minor skin abrasions. The ointment can also be used on minor burns or scrapes. The ingredients in the ointment work to heal the skin and restore it to normal. Application of the ointment can be done at home by the dog’s owner.
Considerations
When applying triple antibiotic ointment to a dog, there are a few things to take into consideration. A new bandage should be applied to the affected area each time the ointment is applied. Triple antibiotic ointment can be applied one to three times per day for one week. If after a week the affected area does not seem to be improving and healing, a veterinarian should be consulted to make sure a more serious condition does not exist.
Side Effects
Though it is highly unlikely that a dog will suffer an adverse side effect from triple antibiotic ointment, there is always a possibility that this can happen. Knowing the side effects of a reaction can help a dog owner act quickly and get the dog to a vet. Side effects include labored breathing, swelling of the tongue or face and hives. It’s extremely important to take the dog to a veterinarian if any of these symptoms occur after triple antibiotic ointment is applied to the dog’s skin.
Warning
Triple antibiotic ointment should be used on a dog for a period of one week only. If after this time conditions do not improve, a veterinarian should be consulted, as this could signal a more serious problem. In addition, triple antibiotic ointment should be used only on small areas of the skin. If the dog has a large area affected by rash or is suffering from a large abrasion that appears to be deep, a vet should be consulted at once. Furthermore, if a dog is taking vitamins, herbal supplements or medication, a vet should be consulted before triple antibiotic cream is used.
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