P.O. Box 987
Valley Forge, PA 19482
(267) 249-5762
Non-Profit Corporation.
Dr. Anna Edling, Veterinarian Horsham Veterinary Hospital Horsham, PA Dr. Edling graduated from University of Pennsylvania in 1982, and has been in private small animal practice for 32 years. She owns multiple pets and also is a ferret specialist |
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DARN EAR INFECTIONSEar infections in dogs can be a one-time thing and easy to treat. Or they can be chronic and frustrating for the pet, owner, and veterinarian.
One of the most common types of ear infections is a yeast called Malassezia. It is seen often in Goldens, Labrador Retrievers and Standard Poodles. But it can occur in any breed. These infections create a pale brown to dark brown discharge. The ear may be mildly inflamed or very red and painful. Because of the dark brown debris, owners often confuse these infections with ear mite infestation.
For very painful ears an initial shot of cortisone can be helpful, to decrease the inflammation and to keep the dog from shaking its head. There are then a number of ear preparations like Tresaderm and Otomax that contain anti-yeast medication.
Some dogs, especially blonde American Cocker Spaniels, can develop severe chronic ear infections. More than 30% have perforated eardrums. Culture and sensitivity for bacteria in the ears is essential. Many of these dogs need to be treated with cortisone initially to reduce swelling. Then long-term antibiotics are used orally and topically. Some of these ears require surgery.
Don't clean a dog's ears unless instructed by an expert on the best way to do it. And anytime you notice your dog shaking his head, check those ears! |
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©2003-2009 The Animal Welfare Project P.O. Box 987 Valley Forge, PA 19482 (267) 249-5762 Duplication prohibited without written permission. |