Otitis (Ear Infection)

Ear infections are very common in canines as their ear canals are mostly vertical. Therefore it is easy for excess moisture and debris to be retained there. Ear mites, excessive hair, wax and foreign bodies can contribute to the development of an ear infection.

 

Causes:

• Ear mites

• Excessive hair in the ear canal

• Excessive moisture in the ear canal

• Excessive ear wax

• Foreign bodies lodged in the ear canal

 

Symptoms:

When a dog has Otitis they usually present with the following behavioural and physical symptoms.

 

Behavioural:

• Scratching of or around the ear

• Rubbing the ear on the floor or furniture 

• Shaking of the head

• Tilting of the head

• Loss of balance 

• Unusual eye movements

• Walking around in circles

• Hearing loss

• General discomfort

 

Physical:

• Yellow, brown or bloody discharge 

• Odor in the ear

• Crusts/ scabs on the inside of outside of the ear

• Hair loss around te ear

• Swelling of the ear

• Temperature

 

Prevention:

• Check your dog's ears regularly for abnormal discharge.

• If dirty, clean your dog's ears gently with a damp cotton ball.

• After swimming and baths, dry your dog's ears thoroughly.

• If your dog has excessive hair in or around the ears, take him/her to a groomer or vet to have it removed.