Infected molar in old dog, no surgery. Are long-term antibiotics safe?

Question

I have a 16.5 year old sheltie. Other than hearing loss and vision decline he is surprisingly healthy and active for his age. He sleeps a lot more but still is engaged. This week we discovered an infected molar. Surgery isn't an option due to his age and our vet has recommended placing him on antibiotics through to the end of his life and seeing how he does. I know long term antibiotics isn't a great thing. I am wondering if people agree with the course of treatment. Pet's info: Dog | Shetland Sheepdog | Male | neutered | 17 years and 7 months old | 39 lbs

Emily, DVM · Accepted Answer

I have done long term antibiotic therapy in select cases of dental disease. It can be effective. However I have also seen patients Marquis's age handle anesthesia and tooth extraction well too. If possible sometimes a referral to a veterinarian experienced with geriatric dental disease is helpful as they may be able to address the tooth itself safely and then antibiotics are not needed long term.

Infected molar in old dog, no surgery. Are long-term antibiotics safe?

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