Inflammation of the ear is the most common ear problem in dogs today. This affects the area between the outside opening and the eardrum, which can be irritated by infection, parasites, allergies and foreign objects.
Signs of ear problems
Signs usually begin with the dog scratching his ear or shaking his head. This can cause swelling, odor and discharge from the ear canal. If the irritation goes untreated ear hematomas are common. Dogs with floppy or hairy ears, as well as dogs that swim a lot may be predisposed to developing ear infections and ear discharge. Other pets are prone to ear problems due to anatomy, allergies or skin conditions.
Preventing the Problem is Key!
Ear problems in the most part, are highly preventable with routine cleaning. Here’s what you need to know:
- Don’t use cotton applicators to clean your dog’s ears, as these can result in a rupture. Instead, use a soft cotton ball.
- Several ear cleaning products are available on the market; however they should only be used as direct by your veterinarian.
- If your dog’s ears are very swollen, narrowed or painful they should not be cleaned. These ears need to be looked at and treated right away by
your veterinarian.
If the ear infection needs medical attention, chances are prescription cream, a follow-up check up and even an antifungal therapy treatment may be needed. These costs can really add up! With Petsecure, regardless of the level of coverage you choose you are covered for accidents AND illness - this includes ear infections!
Check out Pet Healthipedia
For more information relating to other illness or accidents in your dog's life, visit Petsecure’s Pet Healthipedia for hundreds of articles, videos and breed profiles.
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you can use apple cider vinegar as ear disinfectant. it truely help the ear problem.
Posted by: rhea villa ragay | February 08, 2010 at 02:38 AM