Ear Infections in Danville, CA
Ear infections affect about 20 percent of dogs, and early diagnosis and treatment are essential for your pet’s comfort and long-term ear health.
Our veterinarians near Danville answer many questions about pet ear infections, one of the most common concerns we see. Ear problems affect about 20 percent of dogs according to the American Kennel Club, and infections make up a large share of those problems. Ear infections are a particular concern for dogs with floppy ears, such as Basset Hounds and Cocker Spaniels.
Causes and Symptoms of Ear Infections
There are different types of canine ear infections depending on which part of the ear is affected. Otitis externa affects the cells lining the external ear canal, similar to swimmer’s ear in people. Otitis media affects the middle ear canal, while otitis interna is an infection deep inside the skull; these two usually occur together and often start as an external infection.
Dogs are especially vulnerable to ear infections because of their ear structure. A dog’s ear canal is much longer than a human’s and is L-shaped, which means fluid drains poorly. This makes the canal more susceptible to infection when bacteria, yeast, fungus, viruses, or mites find a warm, moist place to grow. Allergies, wax buildup, and foreign objects can also trigger an ear infection — our pet allergies page covers the connection between allergies and recurring ear problems.
All types of ear infections can be painful, particularly otitis media and otitis interna. Signs and symptoms include:
- Head shaking or holding the head tilted to one side
- Abnormal ear odor
- Scaly skin inside the ear flap
- Whining, especially when the ear is touched
- Pawing at the affected ear
- Redness and swelling
- Itchiness around the ear
Ear infections can progress into more serious problems, including deafness or facial paralysis. In some cases, they can lead to vestibular disease, which causes loss of balance and coordination — signs include head tilt, circling, and nausea. Because a simple outer-ear infection can spread quickly to the inner ear, early diagnosis and treatment are essential for your pet’s health and comfort.
Veterinary Care for Ear Infections
Care begins with a comprehensive evaluation, including an exam of the ear, a discussion of symptoms, and a review of your pet’s health history. We’ll ask about the duration of symptoms and whether your dog has known allergies or is on any medications. In some cases, X-rays through our digital radiology services, biopsies, or tissue cultures may be needed to determine the extent and cause of the infection.
Treatment for canine ear infections may include a thorough cleaning, prescription medication, and antibiotics. We may also prescribe pain relief or steroids to reduce swelling as your pet recovers.
Contact Our Veterinarian in Danville
Tassajara Veterinary Clinic is conveniently located at 3436 Camino Tassajara in Danville, CA. Make an appointment for vet care by contacting us at (925) 736-8387.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ear Infections
Why are dogs more prone to ear infections than humans?
A dog’s ear canal is longer and L-shaped, which causes fluid to drain poorly and makes the ear more hospitable to bacteria, yeast, and other organisms.
Are floppy-eared dogs more likely to get ear infections?
Yes, breeds like Basset Hounds and Cocker Spaniels are more prone to ear infections due to reduced airflow in the ear canal.
Can allergies cause ear infections?
Yes, allergies are a common underlying cause of recurring ear infections in dogs.
What are the warning signs of an ear infection?
Head shaking, tilting, odor, redness, swelling, and pawing at the ear are all common warning signs.
Can an ear infection lead to more serious problems?
Yes, untreated ear infections can lead to deafness, facial paralysis, or vestibular disease affecting balance and coordination.
How are ear infections diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically involves an ear exam and history review, with X-rays, biopsies, or cultures used in more complex cases.
How are ear infections treated?
Treatment often includes a thorough ear cleaning along with prescription medication, antibiotics, or anti-inflammatory treatment as needed.
Notice your pet scratching at their ears? Schedule an exam today.