Dog Ear Infection – Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment and Prevention
All ear infections display the same symptoms regardless of the cause. Listed below are some of the signs to watch for at home.
Shaking of the Head
Scratching at the head or ears
Constant rubbing of the head and ears on the floor or ground
A prominent redness or irritation in the ear canal
Liquid leaking from the ears
Brown or Yellowish discharge present in the ears
Foul smell emanating from the ear
Pan when ears are petted or touched
Visiting the Veterinarian – Dog Ear Infection Diagnosis
As soon as symptoms present themselves you should take your dog to the veterinarian. It is very important to note that you should not put anything in your dogs ears before seeing the veterinarian. If your dog happens to have a ruptured eardrum, this could lead to further problems including neurological symptoms such as a head tilt or walking around in circles.
For those dogs that experience frequent ear infections or ear infections resistant to treatment, it is highly imperative to seek out the underlying cause. In most cases, a physical examination can deliver this information. Upon examination, small ear canals, excessive hair in the ear and floppy pinnae can easily be seen. In addition, foreign objects or tumors are also easily visualized with a physical exam.
Food allergies are usually ruled out with a food trial. During a food trial, a special hypoallergenic food is fed for a period of 8-12 weeks. The dog is monitored during this time to see if its symptoms improve.
Skin and blood testing is used to rule out Atopy. This word stands for seasonal and inhalant allergies. The test will provide the veterinarian with exactly what your dog is allergic to, if anything.
Hypothyroidism and other endocrine diseases affecting the skin are usually diagnosed through a series of one or more blood tests which test the function of a particular endocrine organ. Usually dogs with endocrine disorders will have other symptoms besides ear infections that will lead the veterinarian to suspect another problem.
Treatment for Ear Infection
Once the underlying cause is determined, the treatment can begin. For dogs with food allergies, avoiding these foods is paramount. In dogs with seasonal and inhalant allergies, a combination of medications including antihistamines, omega-3 fatty acid supplements and cyclosporine will be prescribed and your dog will most likely be required to take them for the rest of his/her life.
In addition, topical treatments, antibiotics, antifungals, shampoos and rinses may also be required. However, each dogs case is different and will depend on the severity of their allergy.
Most ear infections are treated with a combination of topical medication that you put in your dogs ear and oral medication. While treating an ear infection, it is important to clean a dogs ears once or twice weekly to prevent build-up of medication and debris in the ear. The ear must be dried well after cleaning. Ear infections are usually treated for at least two weeks but may need to be treated for longer. If an ear infection will not clear up, a culture should be done as well.
Dog Ear Infection Prevention
Treat all underlying diseases
Dry your dogs ears thoroughly after bathing
Dry your dogs ears completely after swimming
Do not put any water or cleanser in your dogs ears unless you have to and always dry the ears out well afterwards.
Always remember: Keeping dogs ears dry is the key element to prevention and treatment of ear infections.
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Filed under: Dog Health
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