Prevent canine ear infections

By Nancy Cope

Canine ear infections are common, especially in floppy-eared dogs.

There are many reasons why a dog’s ears get infected.

Many dogs are prone to infections but the most common culprits include:

• Allergies, this includes food allergies or atopy
• Ear mites can lead to infection
• Yeast can lead to bacterial infection
• The ear anatomy itself may make the dog’s ears more susceptible to infections

Symptoms of canine ear infections

Common canine ear infection symptoms include:

• Rubbing ears on floors
• Scratching ears
• Strong, foul odor may be a sign of a bacterial infection
• Redness within the ear itself
• Tilting head to one side and shaking head
• Noticeable discharge or excessive wax

Know when to see your vet

If your dog is showing symptoms of an ear infection, you might want to look inside his ear and see what it looks like.

Take your dog to the vet if the inside of his ear is red or smelly.

If left untreated, the infection can lead to other serious problems.

Consult with your vet if your dog starts scratching, but the inside of the ear isn’t irritated or smell. That could be a sign of mild allergies or the start of an ear infection.

Treat canine ear infections

Take your dog to the veterinarian. Treatment will start immediately if your dog has an ear infection.

If the ear is full of wax, your veterinarian will clean it thoroughly. You will then need to apply drops inside the ear a specific number of times each day.

Prevent canine ear infections

One of the best ways to prevent canine ear infections is to clean your dog’s ears regularly.

Dogs that are particularly susceptible to ear infections — particularly breeds with long, floppy ears — need to have their ears cleaned weekly.

Use a very mild solution that does not contain high levels of alcohol and instead includes soothing ingredients such as aloe vera. You should use cotton balls with the solution once a week, unless your veterinarian advises otherwise. Consult with your veterinarian about cleaning products designed specifically for cleaning a dog’s ears.

Canine ear infections are common and they can make your dog miserable. That’s why it’s vital to check your dogs ears regularly to ensure they stay healthy and free of infection.

Nancy Cope is the owner of four rescue dogs and Pampered Dog Gifts.

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