The present study was carried out to determine whether Helicobacter spp. infection in dogs could affect lesions caused by the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), aspirin and celecoxib. Thirty asymptomatic mixed-breed dogs were used for this study. Gastric biopsies were taken via gastroscopy and evaluated by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and rapid urease tests (RUT). Helicobacter spp. was detected in all specimens. The infection was completely eradicated in 15 dogs by a three-drug regimen for 21 days (amoxicillin, clarithromycin and omeprazole). Each Helicobacter-positive and -negative group was then divided into three subgroups treated with aspirin, celecoxib and placebo for 14 days. Dogs in the different subgroups were compared by sequential gastroscopy on days 0, 3, 7, 14 and 21 (a week after drug cessation). The results show that selective COX-2 inhibitors are better tolerated than conventional non-selective NSAIDs in dogs in terms of their side effects; however, these drugs should be administered with caution. Unlike what is advised in medical practices in humans, it seems that the eradication of non-pylori Helicobacter spp. from the stomach is not necessary prior to administrating NSAIDs in dogs.

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