Animax Ointment for Dogs

Animax Ointment, made by Dechra Veterinary Products, contains four ingredients that can provide your dog with a variety of therapeutic benefits for ear, skin, and anal gland problems. Sold in 1/4, 1/2 and 1 oz. tubes and in 8 oz. bottles, Animax ointment is available by veterinary prescription only. Animax ointment is most often prescribed to treat conditions related to bacterial or fungal infections.

Animax Ointment's corticosteroid triamcinolone relieves swelling, inflammation and itching so that your dog's skin problems have a chance to heal. Its antibiotic thiostreptin, fights a broad range of bacterial infections while its nystatin combats several strains of yeast and other fungi including the highly resistant Monilia. Finally, Animax offers additional protection against bacterial infection with the antibiotic neomycin.

Animax Ointment treats bacterial and fungal ear infections, cysts between dogs' toes, and infected anal glands. Many veterinarians also prescribe it for dermatitis (skin inflammation) caused by mites or fleas, eczema, and for fungally-based sebhorreic dermatitis.

Either protect your hands by wearing gloves or wash them as soon as you finish applying Animax to your dog. For severe conditions, you may have to use Animax on your dog up to three times a day (this will depend on your vet's advice). Mild skin problems might need treatment only once a week.

Before treating your dog for an ear inflammation, cleanse her outer ear canal of any dry discharge or debris. Remove the tube's cap, pierce its protective seal, and put between three and five drops in her ear.

Using Animax Ointment to treat your dog's anal glands or cysts might be better left to your vet, because the cyst or gland will be drained and filled with the ointment. Remove any encrustations before treating your dog's skin with the ointment. Cover the affected area with a thin film of Animax.

Do not use Animax on puncture wounds, deep abscesses, burns, or wounds containing pus.

Some dogs are sensitive to the neomycin in Animax. If your dog's condition fails to improve, or worsens, stop using the ointment.

Some dogs experience weight gain, excessive thirst and an increased urge to urinate when they absorb corticosteroids like triamcinolone through their skin. Watch your dog closely for these symptoms while using Animax and discontinue it if she develops them.

Examine your dog's outer ear canal closely to before applying Animax Ointment. Make sure the outer ear membrane is intact or you risk having the ointment carry the infection deeper into the ear. If your dog seems to have difficulty hearing while you are using the ointment, stop using it and have his ear examined by a vet. (Reference 1)