Ear infections in dogs are often a result of poor ear care routines and practices by the owners. Some breeds, however, are much more likely to get ear infections just because of the type of ears that they have. Dogs that have a lot of "leather" on the ears, which is the long flap of ear that covers the opening of the ear, are more likely to have problems with ear infections than dogs that have pricked or erect types of ears. This only makes sense as less air enters the ear to promote drying and provide oxygen to the area to prevent bacterial growth.
Dog Ear Infections And Bacteria
Any type of dog can get water in their ear or ears or have an excessive production of wax in the ear. Once this happens and the water or wax is not removed naturally or by the owner, the conditions are right for nasty bacteria to move in and get started breeding and creating irritations and ear infections.
The actual veterinary medical term for an external ear infections is otitis externa and it is characterized by:
• Redness and heat to the ear or ear flap
• Excessive scratching of the ears
• Rubbing the head on the ground
• Sensitivity to being touched around or on the ears
• Discharge from the ear draining down the face
• Foul, yeasty smelling discharge
• Tilting of the head in combination with scratching and rubbing
• Constant shaking of the head as if to dislodge something in the ear
The most common type of yeast and bacteria found in dog's ears is Malassezia pachydermatis. It is important to understand that these organisms are always present, but when the conditions become right they can multiply extremely quickly, resulting in infections that seem to develop within a few days.
Dog Ear Care
One of the most important things that dog owners can do to help prevent ear infections is to practice routine ear care in their dog's grooming routine. This means actually taking the time, and it will only take a minute or two, to carefully look into the ear and check for waxy build up, discharge or the foul odor that signals the beginning of an ear infection.
If you notice water or wax in the ears, clean it out with a dry cotton ball or swab, never a Q-Tip or any other type of device. In some breeds regular ear flushing may be required to help remove bacterial and yeast growths in the ear, however this is typically only done in cases where the dog's own immune system is compromised or the dog has some type of allergic condition causing the problem.
Dog owners that own dogs with dangling ears or ear flaps that cover the ear canal should consult with their vet about dog ear care to prevent ear infections in their dogs. Proactive checking is much easier than the reactive treatment.
 |
 Otomite plus Ear mite Killer for Dogs Cats 5 oz  US $7.49
|
 Cleanaural 100ml Dog Ear Cleaner US $12.97
|
 50 Petkin Pet Wipes Variety Pack Dog Cat Ear Eye Tooth US $6.99
|
 Dr Golds Ear Therapy Ear Cleaner 4oz for Dogs US $11.39
|
 Angels Eyes Beef Flavor 30g Dr Golds Ear Therapy Ear Cleaner 4oz US $22.79
|
 Zymox Otic with 1 Hydrocortisone US $16.85
|
| Powered by phpBay Pro |
I cannot thank you enough for the article post.Really looking forward to read more. Awesome.
I loved your article post.Really looking forward to read more. Want more.
Great ideas here. I am still looking for supplemental data on natural health and would love any advice. Thanks!