We begin this week’s “RUFF TAILS” featuring our newest puppy graduate 10 week old Rottweiler named Mya.
“Hi everyone!!!!!!
I just wanted to introduce myself and let you know I love chewing on everything, love meeting new people, and I am learning so many new “words” from mom and dad.”
My mom and dad wanted to let you all know I can sleep through the night now!!! “Yeah for me”
Welcome to Doggie Dialogue:
There are telltale signs of an ear infection in your canine, such as head shaking, scratching of the ear, and even whining when you touch their ear.
There are three types of ear infections commonly in dogs.
The most common is otitis externa, which affects the cell lining of the external (outer) portion of the ear canal. Otitis media refers to the infection in the middle of the ear, and interna is the inner ear. Otitis media and interna can be very serious and could result in deafness and/or facial paralysis, if untreated.
Ear infections are common in “floppy” ear dogs such as Bassett Hounds and Cocker Spaniels.
Ear infection symptoms besides head shaking and scratching, there also can be an odor, swelling of the ear canal, hair loss or even scabs forming in the ear canal.
We personally always checked for odor. It can smell like sour milk, rotten chicken, or my even smell sweet like grapes. (we have had the sour milk version)
Ear infections are typically caused by yeast, bacteria, fungus, or ear mites (especially in puppies).
Moisture creates a prime growing environment for bacteria and yeast. Remember to dry your dog/dogs ears after bathing or swimming thoroughly.
Ear infections can also be caused by allergies, injury to the ear canal, thyroid disease or wax build up. Do not use a Q-tip, cotton ball, or paper towel on the ear canal, as they will leave fibers behind in the canal. We personally have used absorbent gauze to wipe out the canal, to remove moisture from Daisy’s ears.
If symptoms continue please see your vet. Your vet will clean your dog’s ears using a medicated cleanser.
If it is a severe case, your vet will prescribe oral antibiotics and an anti- inflammatory medication.
With veterinarian treatment most uncomplicated ear infections will resolve themselves within 1-2 weeks.
Severe ear infections, even with treatment, could take months. Remember to finish all medication to the end, even if your dog seems to be getting better.
Please book a follow up appointment 2 weeks later to ensure the ear infection is starting to clear up.