Is your dog having a problem with his ears? If so, you are not alone. Ear disease is a common condition in dogs that can cause discomfort, pain, and / or suffering.

If you notice one or more of the following signs in your dog, then he may have an ear problem:

• Strong odor around the ear area
• Frequent head shaking or scratching around the ears
• Head tilted to one side
• Discharge from the ears
• Redness or swelling of the ear flap or canal
• Pain around the ears
• Behavior changes such as depression or irritability

To nurse those ears back to perfect health, prevent recurring problems, and reduce costly veterinarian bills, follow these 3 steps to healthy dog ears…

Step 1: Determine the root cause of the problem.

There are many possibilities when it comes to ear disease. It could be a dog ear yeast infection. It could also be a bacterial infection, parasites, a foreign object in the ear, or an underlying condition such as allergies. That’s why it is important to take your dog to a reputable veterinarian for a thorough examination.

Do not try to diagnose and treat the problem on your own.

A veterinarian will examine the ear canal using an otoscope. He’ll check for inflammation, foreign bodies, tumors, or other potential causes. He may also take an ear swab to view under a microscope for mites, bacteria, or yeast.

It could be as simple as that to diagnose the problem. But, chronic ear problems may require a more thorough examination. For example, recurring ear infections often occur in dogs with allergies. In this case, not only does the vet need to treat the ear but also the dog’s allergies.

If ear problems continue to recur despite treatment and preventative ear care, then it’s important for your vet to check for underlying conditions. Be aware that chronic ear problems may indicate that your dog has another health condition.

Are you frustrated by a treatment plan that is not working? If so, ask your vet about the possibility of an underlying condition or further tests.

Step 2: Follow prescribed treatment plan.

Once your vet determines the source of your dog’s problem, he’ll prescribe a treatment plan. Treatment will vary depending upon diagnosis.

Ask questions as needed and follow through. Many veterinarians will contact you during treatment to verify that everything is going well. Of course, you should call your vet if you have any additional questions or notice a potential problem.

During or towards the end of treatment, it may be clear to you that your dog is getting better. But, do not skimp on recommended follow up visits to the vet even if your dog is improving. At a follow up, the vet can verify that treatment is going well and if not adjust as needed.

To avoid the risk of unforeseen problems that may cost more money to diagnose and treat later on, take your dog to follow up visits.

Step 3: Practice preventative ear care.

Owners can usually prevent ear problems that lead to costly veterinarian bills by practicing preventative ear care. The key to healthy dog ears is to keep them clean and dry. Clean and inspect your dog’s ears at least once per week and more often if needed to prevent recurring problems.

While any dog can have ear disease, some are more prone including:

• Dogs with long, pendulous ears such as Basset Hounds, Cocker Spaniels, Labrador Retrievers, and Irish Setters
• Dogs that swim a lot
• Dogs with a history of ear disease

For these dogs, routine ear care is a must!

Pendulous ears trap dirt and tend to retain moisture due to a lack of air circulation. In addition dogs that swim frequently, often retain moisture in the ears. A warm, moist environment is the perfect place for a dog ear yeast infection to start.

So keep those ears clean and dry and watch for signs that indicate a problem. If you notice a potential ear problem, promptly take your dog to a vet for diagnosis and treatment.

Author: Virginia Rosen

View a video demonstrating dog ear cleaning techniques at http://www.just-basset-hounds.com/basset-hound-ear-care.html#video

Virginia Rosen loves dogs, especially Basset Hounds. She has been practicing preventative ear care with her dog, Hunter, for many years. She and Hunter admit that they once experienced a dog ear yeast infection. It was not fun! Therefore, they continue on their quest to inform others about how to attain healthy dog ears.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Virginia_Rosen

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