One of the most difficult and common illnesses treated by veterinarians is dog ear problems. A few dog breeds are susceptible including Labrador Retrievers, Poodles, Cocker Spaniels and many long hair breeds. The key to a successful treatment plan is to detect any dog ear problems before they spread to the middle ear. Owners must be aware of the symptoms and straightforward steps that may be taken to minimize the risk of future issues.
Otitis or otitis externa is another name used when referring to an irritated ear condition. Problems start when bacteria, yeast or a pathogen attacks and tmultiplies in the dog's ear canal. The condition is can occur during any time of the year, but is more prevalent in the summer and spring. For active dogs that like to swim an infection can begin to colonize in the ear when water gets trapped in the ear. Common causes include inhaled atopic allergens such as pollen and an allergic reaction to food ingredients. Symptoms may or may not include itchy or skin inflammation. In the case of food allergy, the only symptom may be nflammation.
It is easy to tell when a dog is experiencing an outer ear infection. The classic indications of otitis are head-shaking, pawing or scratching at the ears. There may also be red skin, inflammation and discharge. In serious cases of otitis, an exceedingly pungent odor may be present. Also, the dog may not permit any ear touching or handling.
To prevent an infection from becoming serious, it is vital for owners to recognize and act on the signs. Do not ignore symptoms such as a dog that is shaking his head or scratching his ears more than usual. Lift the dogs ear pinna and examine the ear canal. If there is reddened or inflamed ear tissue or abnormal discharge in the ear canals, seek veterinary care as soon as possible. It is a smart idea to avoid over-the-counter ear cleaners and medicines. Many cleaners contain alcohol, which can sometimes be irritating and painful to an already irritated ear. Be aware that putting agents into the ear before the vet examination can obstruct the vets ability to determine the infection.
The veterinarian will do a thorough investigation into the external ear, as well as the ear canal and drum. Unless the infection is chronic enough to cause irritation that impedes an thorough examination, the vet will probably use an otoscope to peer into the ear structures. The veterinarian will also take swabs from the ear canals and have a look at the material under a microscope to spot the pathogen or pathogens resulting in infection. Most mild or first time infections are a result of the yeast Malassezia. Many lingering or severe infections stem from several kinds of bacteria such as Pseudomonas. Based on the infection present, the vet will recommend an ear medication that contains an antifungal medication, antibiotic, steroid, or all three. The vet could also prescribe an ear flush or cleaning agent in situations where a lot of physical debris exists.
Early detection can forestall a prolonged infection from becoming hard to treat. We recommend avoiding over the counter cures and cleaners until a vet is consulted. Follow your veterinarians directions and ask for help regarding any of the recommended treatment methods. This includes owners who find it difficult when applying medications in the ears or that need help learning how to keep a dog still during treatment.
Otitis or otitis externa is another name used when referring to an irritated ear condition. Problems start when bacteria, yeast or a pathogen attacks and tmultiplies in the dog's ear canal. The condition is can occur during any time of the year, but is more prevalent in the summer and spring. For active dogs that like to swim an infection can begin to colonize in the ear when water gets trapped in the ear. Common causes include inhaled atopic allergens such as pollen and an allergic reaction to food ingredients. Symptoms may or may not include itchy or skin inflammation. In the case of food allergy, the only symptom may be nflammation.
It is easy to tell when a dog is experiencing an outer ear infection. The classic indications of otitis are head-shaking, pawing or scratching at the ears. There may also be red skin, inflammation and discharge. In serious cases of otitis, an exceedingly pungent odor may be present. Also, the dog may not permit any ear touching or handling.
To prevent an infection from becoming serious, it is vital for owners to recognize and act on the signs. Do not ignore symptoms such as a dog that is shaking his head or scratching his ears more than usual. Lift the dogs ear pinna and examine the ear canal. If there is reddened or inflamed ear tissue or abnormal discharge in the ear canals, seek veterinary care as soon as possible. It is a smart idea to avoid over-the-counter ear cleaners and medicines. Many cleaners contain alcohol, which can sometimes be irritating and painful to an already irritated ear. Be aware that putting agents into the ear before the vet examination can obstruct the vets ability to determine the infection.
The veterinarian will do a thorough investigation into the external ear, as well as the ear canal and drum. Unless the infection is chronic enough to cause irritation that impedes an thorough examination, the vet will probably use an otoscope to peer into the ear structures. The veterinarian will also take swabs from the ear canals and have a look at the material under a microscope to spot the pathogen or pathogens resulting in infection. Most mild or first time infections are a result of the yeast Malassezia. Many lingering or severe infections stem from several kinds of bacteria such as Pseudomonas. Based on the infection present, the vet will recommend an ear medication that contains an antifungal medication, antibiotic, steroid, or all three. The vet could also prescribe an ear flush or cleaning agent in situations where a lot of physical debris exists.
Early detection can forestall a prolonged infection from becoming hard to treat. We recommend avoiding over the counter cures and cleaners until a vet is consulted. Follow your veterinarians directions and ask for help regarding any of the recommended treatment methods. This includes owners who find it difficult when applying medications in the ears or that need help learning how to keep a dog still during treatment.
About the Author:
Cathy Doggins is the author of several of articles on canine ear infections and is the lead editor of several dog health resources such as tarticles like this. When not writing about dogs, Cathy can be discovered playing with her 2 Jack Russell's or volunteering at a local no kill pet shelter.
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