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Dog Ear Infection Symptoms
One of the most common types of
infections seen in dogs is infections of the external ear canal
(outer ear) by bacteria or yeast. Some breeds that have long floppy
ears, such as Cocker Spaniels, Basset Hounds, Schnauzers and
Poodles, seem more prone to ear infections but they may occur in any
breed.
The dog ear infection symptoms are shaking of the head or scratching
at the ears. Often, the ears will become red and inflamed with an
offensive odor and maybe a black or yellowish discharge. If the dog
tilts his head constantly, it could be a sign of a middle ear
infection. Sometimes the dog appears perfectly well and happy,
eating its meals and taking its usual exercise when for no apparent
reason it falls over.
When it tries to regain its feet, it staggers in drunken circles,
bangs into objects and tumbles down steps. The dog will vomit and
the vomit will look yellow and frothy. The dog's eyes will shoot
rapidly from side to side and the head will be cocked to one side.
It's easy to see why owners would think the dog had either had a
stroke or had been poisoned but these are most often only dog ear
infection symptoms.
If the dog is exhibiting dog ear infection symptoms the best thing
to do is to get them to a veterinarian to be seen to as early as
possible. Ear infections in dogs can become a very serious problem
and the earlier the infection is diagnosed and treatment begins the
better it is for the dog.
The veterinarian will use an otoscope (an instrument that provides
light and magnification) to look into the ear canal. He or she will
be able to see whether or not the eardrum is intact and if any
foreign material is in the ear. Sedation or anesthesia may be
necessary to complete the exam if this is very painful to the dog.
Next, your veterinarian will take a sample of the excretions in the
ear canal and examine it under a microscope. If more than one
organism is the problem, multiple medications or a broad-spectrum
medication will be necessary. If the veterinarian finds a tick or a
very heavy buildup of debris, sedation will usually be required to
remove the irritant and to allow a thorough cleaning of the ear.
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