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Resistance to Antibiotics in Dogs

Submitted by Michael Adams on December 22, 2009

Resistance to antibiotics in dogs is caused when certain microorganisms manage to successfully endure the impact of antibiotics administered to the body. A creature develops natural resistance to certain kinds of antibiotics naturally over a course of several years on being exposed to it continually. Also, sometimes genetic mutations happen occur as a consequence of the natural process of evolution over centuries and may make a particular species proof to certain kinds of chemicals present in antibiotics.

In a few rare cases, an anomaly in the genetic constitution of the individual creature may also be responsible for resistance to antibiotics. Regular administration of antibiotic drugs to the pet may also make it immune to their effect over a period of time. The usual symptoms of this condition include chronic diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome, severe colon inflammation, bad mouth odor, flatulence, constipation, vomiting and dehydration.

Your dog may suffer only a few of these symptoms, but if s/he has developed a resistance to antibiotics, chances are that the symptoms will keep recurring. The problem is also complicated because of the fact that certain kind of harmful bacteria that affect dogs commonly have developed a natural immunity against mild antibiotics, hence stronger medication is required to eradicate them. But in the process, the dog’s own immune system becomes compromised and slowly starts reacting positively to these drugs. In many cases, a weak immune system is also the consequence of nutritional deficiencies in the dog’s diet.

There are, on the other hand, certain useful bacteria that live symbiotically in the intestines of animals like dogs. These can be introduced into the body of the pet in the form of supplements. In addition to this, you should take a few basic dietary measures in order to improve natural resistance of pet’s body as well as improve his/her ability to respond to antibiotics. Make sure that your dog gets to eat plenty of proteins and minerals on a daily basis. It may be beneficial to cut down on carbohydrates and fats that are often present in large quantities in manufactured and processed dog food and substitute them with fresh foods that are rich in vital nutrients. Also, do not feed your dog with food that contains too many preservatives, as these destroy the beneficial bacteria in the intestines. A yearly medical check-up, focusing especially on the digestive tract, is also a good way to keep the dog in good health.

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