Why We Use Antibiotics and Dewormers Carefully

Antibiotics: Powerful, but not always needed

Antibiotics save lives when they’re truly needed — but overusing them can cause serious
long-term problems.

Why we limit antibiotic use:

• Resistance develops — bacteria can learn to “outsmart” antibiotics, making future infections harder to treat.
• Good bacteria are lost — antibiotics can disrupt the healthy gut biome, leading to diarrhea or other infections.
• They don’t treat viruses — most colds, coughs, or minor wounds don’t need antibiotics.

What we do instead:

We use tests (like cytology, cultures, or imaging) to decide when an antibiotic is truly helpful. When prescribed, we choose the safest, most targeted option for the shortest effective time.

Dewormers: Treat smart, not often

Many worms and parasites are common, but automatically giving dewormers every time
can cause resistance and upset your pet’s natural gut balance.

Why we don’t deworm “just in case”:

• Parasite resistance is rising — some worms no longer respond well to common dewormers.
• Testing is better — simple fecal testing tells us if treatment is even needed.
• Unnecessary medication can stress the gut biome, especially if used repeatedly.

Our approach: We use fecal tests, heartworm tests, and risk-based deworming schedules tailored to your pet’s lifestyle — not a one-size-fits-all approach.

Why Antibiotics Are Rarely Used for Dental Cleanings

Routine dental cleanings are performed under anesthesia to safely and thoroughly remove
plaque and tartar. For healthy pets, antibiotics are not needed because bacteria released
during the cleaning are quickly cleared by the body’s immune system.

Antibiotics are only recommended when:
• There is severe infection below the gumline or evidence of an abscess.
• The patient has significant systemic illness (heart disease, diabetes, immune compromise).
• Oral surgery involving infected tissue or jawbone is performed.

Avoiding unnecessary antibiotics during dentals helps protect your pet’s gut microbiome and
reduces the risk of resistant bacteria.

The Benefits of Responsible Medication Use

• Keeps antibiotics and dewormers working when your pet really needs them.
• Protects your pet’s gut and immune system.
• Helps reduce the spread of resistant bacteria and parasites.
• Saves money and avoids side effects from unnecessary treatments.

When Antibiotics or Dewormers Are Appropriate

We will always use these medications when there’s clear evidence of infection or parasite
burden, lab tests confirm bacteria that are sensitive to a specific antibiotic, or when preventive treatment is recommended for known high-risk exposures.

Your Role as a Pet Parent

• Give all prescribed medications exactly as directed — don’t stop early even if your pet
seems better.
• Avoid using leftover medications or over-the-counter dewormers without veterinary advice.
• Keep up with regular exams and fecal tests — prevention and monitoring are key!

Together, we can keep antibiotics and dewormers effective for years to come — protecting your pet and the whole animal community.