Read About Canine Ear Infections

Canine ear infections are common in dogs of all ages. There are a few reasons why ear infections can occur. First, parasites can cause infections and discomfort. The only way a dog can be exposed to parasites is from another animal that has been infected with parasites. It is smart to get all pets in the household treated for parasites once an animal has been diagnosed with them. Parasites bury themselves deep into the ear canal where they breed. This form of canine ear infection can be uncomfortable. Image

Constant itching and scratching is an indication of parasites. Only a vet can verify this type of infection. Medications will be prescribed which should kill all parasites. To prevent this from occurring again it is important to keep the dog's ears clean with a cleaning solution which can be bought from a pet store. Do not use rubbing alcohol as it can dry out the dogs’ ears and make it a nice place for bacteria that like warm dry places.

Another reason for canine ear infections is yeasts which can settle near the ear canal. These yeasts thrive in dark moist areas. Yeast infections can develop from not cleaning the ear properly, a prior cold which left the dogs ears dry, or from grasses which get stuck in the ear and start to decay. These yeasts can also be treated with medication and proper cleanings. These canine ear infections are very common.

One way to tell if the dog has a yeast infection in his ear is to smell behind the ear. If there is an odor, then it probably is caused by yeast. Sometimes little grass pieces will get stuck in the ear. This can be from a recently mowed lawn or playing the yard wrestling with other animals. Sometimes these pieces of grass can irritate the dog causing it to scratch the outer ear. This can lead to lesions on the dog ear. These lesions can be very painful and hurt the dog which may cause it to get angry.Image

Some indications that the dog has a canine ear infection are an odor, the dog will scratch or run around wildly in circles because it is in pain or the infection itches, the dog will growl and try to bite his ears, and the dog may become disoriented and try to roll around on the ground trying to stop the itching. A trip to the vet is necessary if after a few days, this behavior does not stop. The dog will need medical attention. A vet will check all the ear cavities and make sure there are no tumors forming.

Sometimes this is a sign of cancer which leads to more serious problems. Sometimes when the dog has scratched too much, tiny lesions will form inside the ear which also itches. This can be fixed with cream that needs to be applied once or twice a day. Ear infections are easily treatable. Canine ear infections are not pleasant, but with the help of a vet, they can be cured quickly.