Dogs exhibit certain symptoms when suffering from ear infections.
Symptoms Include:
- Red inflamed ears
- Discharge from ears
- Dog shakes his head often
- Pet tries to scratch his ears with his paws
- Foul odor from the ear
Before treating your pet for an ear infection, the vet will conduct tests such as a physical examination, cytology and lab tests. The vet will also check your pet's eardrum for damage. Often the physical examination is conducted under anesthesia, as it may be quite painful for animals.
Commercially Available Medication for Dog Ear Infections:
- Baytril (enrofloxacin)
- Zymox Otic drops with hydrocortisone
- Mometamax Otic Suspension
- Otomax
Animax Ointment or Cream
Several medicines require a doctor's prescription. It's important to read and follow package instructions before administering. Certain drugs shouldn't be used on pregnant or lactating dogs. The medications can cure bacterial infections, viral and yeast infections. While some of them need to be applied to the ear canal for a specific duration, others are tablets that are antibiotic in nature. Seek immediate medical help if your dog shows symptoms such as lack of appetite, frequent vomiting or diarrhea, because he may be overdosed. Some dogs may just be allergic to certain drugs.
Ear infections are more common in pets with a lot of hair on the inner ear flap. Cocker spaniels in particular are prone to ear infections, because their ears don't get sufficient air flow. Infections should be treated promptly, as they could cause more complications in the ear canal. If the ear infection is chronic, the vet might suggest surgical reconstruction of the ear canal.
Tips for Treating Dog Ear Infections
- Regularly check your dog's ears for ear wax or discharges.
- Clean dog's ears once a week with a good ear cleansing solution.
- If your pet has excessive internal ear hair, have it groomed or plucked routinely.
- Avoid too much ear cleaning in pets without flopped ears.
- Diluted white vinegar is often used as a home remedy to treat yeast infections in dog ears. However. this treatment may be used only after determining the type of ear infection in your pet.
- Although commercial medicines effectively treat dog ear infections, they are known to have side effects.
Side Effects Include:
- Increased thirst
- Urination
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Loss of appetite
- Allergic reactions
Sometimes ear mites and fleas cause itching in your dog's ear. It's necessary to keep your pet well groomed and follow up with vet checks after completion of treatment for ear infections.