When should I take my dog to the vet for ear issues?

Ongoing symptoms such as nonstop scratching or shaking of the head require a veterinarian's attention. These behaviors signal that there is a treatable condition that home remedies cannot resolve. My spaniel scratched itself until it bled before we finally discovered a foxtail hidden in the ear. Do not ignore repetitive symptoms lasting longer than 48 hours.

Any discharge is indicative of a serious problem that requires a surgical diagnosis. Blood in the discharges indicates trauma or ulcers. At the same time, pus suggests that bacteria are causing a condition that requires suitable antibiotics. My terrier had bloody discharges, which showed a ruptured eardrum due to the necessity of an operation. The difference in color of the discharges indicates the progress of the condition to a more advanced degree.

With unsuccessful home treatments, it is time to seek expert diagnostic investigation. If cleaning fails to produce results after three attempts, veterinary diagnostics will help identify the underlying cause of the problem. A neighbor delayed bringing her dog to the vet. His Labrador's infection had systemic spread.

Wellness-oriented veterinary visits help prevent emergencies before they occur. Bi-annual exams for breeds at risk can spot early changes. My vet detected the polyps on my cocker spaniel during a routine exam, thus giving me a chance to avoid surgery. Routine exams mean regular hearing checks. Routine checks mean prevention of suffering.

Read the full article: Dog Ear Cleaning: Essential Steps & Tips