At Pooch Care Plus, we know that your pup is a part of the family. That’s why you should keep an eye out for any potential health issues that can arise. One common issue in dogs is an ear infection. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the signs and symptoms of a dog ear infection, as well as how to treat it.
What Causes Ear Infections in Dogs?
Ear infections in dogs are caused by a variety of factors, including allergies, bacteria, yeast, mites, and foreign objects lodged in the ear canal. Allergies are one of the most typical causes of ear infections in dogs; they can cause inflammation and irritation that leads to infection. Bacteria and yeast can also cause infections if left untreated. Mites are another common cause; these tiny parasites feed on wax and oils in the ear canal and can lead to infection if not treated promptly. Finally, foreign objects such as grass seeds or dirt can become lodged in the ear canal and lead to infection if not removed quickly.
Symptoms of an Ear Infection in Dogs
- There are several signs that your dog may have an ear infection:
- Pawing or rubbing at the ear
- Brown, yellow, or bloody discharge
- Odor in the ear
- Redness inside of the ear
- Head shaking
- Tilting head
- Crusts or scabs just inside the ear
- Rubbing their ears on furniture or carpeting
If you notice any of these symptoms in your pup, it’s important to take them to see a veterinarian right away for diagnosis and treatment.
Diagnosing an Ear Infection in Dogs
The first step towards diagnosing an ear infection is for your veterinarian to take a swab from inside your pup’s ears and examine it under a microscope. This will help them determine whether there are any mites, bacteria, or yeast present that could be causing the infection. They may also use other tests, such as X-rays or CT scans, to get a better look at what’s going on inside your pup’s ears.
Treating an Ear Infection in Dogs
Once your vet has determined what type of infection is present, they will prescribe antibiotics or antifungal medications depending on what type of organism is causing the problem. They may also recommend using medicated drops or ointments directly into your pup’s ears several times daily until their symptoms improve. In some cases, surgery may be required to remove any foreign objects that have become lodged deep within their ears.
Prevention Tips for Dog Ear Infections
The best way to prevent dog ear infections is through regular cleaning and inspection of their ears. You should check their ears weekly for any signs of redness or discharge and clean them with a water-dampened cotton ball (never use Q-tips). Additionally, you should keep their environment free from allergens such as dust mites by vacuuming regularly and washing bedding frequently. Finally, ensure they stay up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by your vet so they don’t develop any underlying conditions that could lead to infections down the road!
At Pooch Care Plus, we understand how important it is for you to keep your pup healthy and happy! If you suspect your dog has an ear infection, make sure to contact their veterinarian. If you ever need pet sitting services near Philadelphia or have been interested in learning more about doggy daycare, contact our team today.