At Creekside Pet Care Center in Keller, Texas, we’re dedicated to providing exceptional care for your furry friends. In this blog post, we’ll help you understand the signs of an ear infection in dogs, an issue we often see in our practice. By recognizing these signs, you can get your pet the care they need sooner and prevent long-term complications.
Understanding Dog Ear Infections
What Causes Ear Infections in Dogs?
Dog ear infections are often caused by bacteria or yeast. Other factors like allergies, ear mites, or even foreign bodies like grass seeds can also cause infections. Moisture, which can come from bathing, grooming, or humid weather, can create a prime environment for bacterial and yeast growth.
Types of Ear Infections in Dogs
Ear infections can be categorized based on which part of the ear they affect. Otitis externa affects the outer ear, otitis media occurs in the middle ear, and otitis interna happens in the inner ear.
Signs of an Ear Infection in Your Dog
Physical Symptoms
The most common physical signs of ear infections in dogs include:
- Redness and swelling
- Discharge from the ear
- Foul odor
- Crusting or scabs in the ears
Behavioral Changes
Behavioral changes in your dog can also indicate an ear infection. These changes may include:
- Scratching or pawing at the ears
- Shaking the head or tilting it to one side
- Irritability or restlessness
- Loss of balance or hearing
What to Do if Your Dog Has an Ear Infection
Home Care Tips
In mild cases, you can clean your dog’s ears with a vet-approved cleaner. However, never insert anything into your dog’s ear canal – this could cause more harm.
When to Call the Vet
If your dog’s symptoms persist for more than a day, or if they seem to be in pain, it’s time to call Creekside Pet Care Center at (817) 421-5850. Don’t hesitate to contact us if you’re unsure – it’s always better to be safe.
Preventing Ear Infections in Dogs
Regular Ear Care
Regular cleaning and inspection of your dog’s ears can help prevent ear infections.
Lifestyle Changes
For dogs prone to ear infections, you might need to make certain lifestyle changes, such as using special ear drying solutions after baths or swims, or changing their diet if they have allergies.
Remember, your pet’s health is our top priority at Creekside Pet Care Center. If you suspect your dog has an ear infection, don’t delay – call us at (817) 421-5850 or book an appointment online today.
