red ears
If your dog's ears are red, it could be an indication of an ear infection. When the canals become inflamed with wax and discharge, scabbing and thickening can develop as well.
It is essential to clean your dog's ears thoroughly and regularly, especially if he frequently has problems. A quality ear cleanser, such as those containing coconut oil, can relieve itchy and sore ears and promote healing.
Ear infections in dogs are quite common and are usually caused by a combination of yeast and bacteria. Your veterinarian will identify what type of ear infection is present and provide medications to treat it effectively.
ear discharge
Ear discharge can be a sign of various ailments. It usually appears when the ears try to expel something foreign from their cavities.
If your dog has an ear infection, other signs may include scratching or pawing at the affected ear, shaking his head, and tilting his head toward that ear. It is essential to recognize these symptoms and take your pup to the vet if they appear.
The veterinarian will perform a physical examination and use an otoscope to inspect the ear canal for any abnormalities, such as swelling, tumors, or odors. He or she may also swab the duct with bacteria to check its purity.
Most dog ear infections are due to an overgrowth of bacteria or yeast. These overgrowths are quite common and usually caused by humidity creating an ideal environment for bacteria to flourish.
Earache
Dogs with ear infections often shake their heads vigorously to relieve the pain. Scratching your ears can further aggravate the itching and worsen the infection.
Another symptom is a strong odor coming from the ear. This smell usually indicates that bacteria has accumulated inside the duct.
To diagnose an ear infection in your dog, an otoscope must be used. This procedure is performed under sedation or anesthesia to allow the veterinarian to examine your pup's ear canal, identify any debris inside, and evaluate the integrity of his eardrum.
Next, a microscopic examination is performed to identify the microbe responsible for the infection and select an effective antibiotic. Culture and susceptibility testing are also used to help your veterinarian select the most effective medication.
