Dogs give us wonderful companionship. But dogs, like humans, can get ill. Ear infections are among the most prevalent medical issues that your canines encounter.
Ear infections can cause extreme pain and even loss of hearing. If you’re worried about your dog possibly having ear infections, worry no more. In this post, we’ll learn the causes, symptoms, and effective treatments for ear infections in dogs!
Causes of Dog Ear Infections
Dogs suffer ear infections from a variety of causes. Below are just a few of the most prevalent causes of a dog ear infection, according to Antioch Veterinary Hospital:
- Ear Mites
- Environmental Allergies(Mold or Pollen)
- Endocrine Issues
- Food Allergies
- Inhalant Allergies
- Tumors
Infections may also be triggered by ear trauma, including scratches or bites.
Symptoms of Dog Ear Infections
Ear infections are painful for dogs; thus, you ought to look at your dog’s ears frequently.
Here are some signs to look for:
- Scratching that is excessively aggressive
- squeezing the skin
- Ear Swelling
- Hair thinning
- A disagreeable odor
Avoid washing your dog’s ears if they exhibit indications of infection because it could be too uncomfortable for him. In this case, it’s best to get the intervention of a vet.
Treatment of Dog Ear Infections
The underlying reason determines the therapy for a dog’s ear infection. When the infection occurs from bacteria, the vet could give you medications or recommend that you begin to give filtered drinking water and learn about its advantages.
When the infection is caused by allergies, the veterinarian may advise a dietary adjustment. Once treated, ear infections normally clear up in 1-2 weeks.
It is critical to strictly adhere to your veterinarian’s recommendations and get back to the animal clinic for any suggested review appointments.
Immediate care is required for your dog’s comfort, but it is additionally essential to avoid an infection from spreading to the inner ear.
Plan to give your veterinarian a detailed history of the condition. This is particularly critical when it comes to new infections.
Can you Prevent Dog Ear Infection?
Prevention is better than cure, especially for something as painful as an ear infection in dogs.
The number one thing you can do is to keep your dogs’ ears dry at all times.
Excess moisture is a major cause of ear infections in dogs, which is why you should thoroughly dry their ears. Avoid using paper towels since they may leave fibers around that might cause discomfort.
Grooming may also be a preventative precaution, especially when it comes to trimming extra ear hair, but always consult the vet or take your friend to a professional groomer.
You can lower your risk of ear infections by taking the following precautions:
- Apply a cleaning agent prescribed by your veterinarian.
- After bathing, carefully wipe the canine’s ears.
- Maintain your dog’s habitat clean
- Remove any unnecessary hair.
- Examine the ears of your pet on a regular basis.
It is critical that you carefully adhere to your veterinarian’s advice in order to heal your pet’s ear infection quickly.
Stopping therapy before the illness has been entirely cured might result in a reoccurring infection that is more difficult to manage.
Conclusion
Ear infections are a common concern in dogs, but they are readily avoidable with adequate care and preventive measures.
You must be aware of your pet’s attitude and obtain medical assistance immediately if you observe any indications of infection.
With the right care, your dog can heal from an ear infection and get back to being happy and healthy.
For more tips on how to take care of your dog, check out the PetFitness blog today!
