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• November 30, 2008 Dr Amanda wrote:
  The "best" antibiotic is a trick question. There is no answer. It really depends on what infection you are fighting.
  
  For intestinal bugs, I prescribe Metronidazole.
  
  We use Clavamox for a lot of infections, including situations where the animal is sick but we don't have a specific diagnosis. It is strong and covers a wide spectrum of infections.
  
  Low-grade infections, like a little cough but short of pneumonia, might get SMZ. It's very inexpensive and effective against certain infections. It's low cost makes it "best" in some situations.
  
  Skin infections and lung infections are very difficult to treat because pockets of puss form and blood (that carries the medicine) doesn't flow through these strongholds of disease.
  
  We use Convenia for skin infections. We do not use it for anything else. If folks don't want an injectable antibiotic, we give Simlpicef.
  
  We start with Clavamox for lung infections. If that doesn't work, we administer stronger antibiotics at the hospital. It isn't something we'd send you home with.
  
  We use penicillin for hospitalized animals because we use an injectable form. The dosing is once daily, so it's easier on the staff. We also use it for pets who have trouble with pills, often due to stomach upset.
  
  Urinary tract infections also get Clavamox. These are fairly easy to fight as the body concentrates the antibiotic in the bladder.
  
  I almost never use amoxicillin. I haven't found it to be effective against very much at all.
  
  Although these are generalities, the best drug is the one your veterinarian feels is appropriate give your pet's specific circumstances.
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