EAR INFECTION IN DOGS

EAR INFECTION IN DOGS

If notice your canine scratching his ear, shaking his head, or smelly  colored discharge coming from his ears, your canine might have an ear infection. Ear infections are most common issues in dogs and can arise in the outer, center or internal ear. There are many reasons for ear infections, and as many treatments; fortunately, ear infections are rarely serious and are usually treatable with easily-available medications.

Causes of ear infection :

Ear infections happen when sebum, wax, hair, moisture, and debris build up in the ear canal, providing the perfect feeding ground for yeast and bacteria.There are several causes of ear infections including:

• Bacteria 

• Fungus

• Allergies

• Hormone imbalance

• Poor diet

• Drug and toxins

• Over vaccination

Symptoms of ear infection :

Dog with ear infections shows following signs and symptoms :

• Shaking head frequently

•  Ear scratching

• Excess debris in ears and/or discharge from ears

• Brown, yellow or bloody discharge

• Red, irritated ears (sometimes painful)

• Odor in the ear

• Swelling

• Crusted or scabby skin on the near ear flap

• Loss of balance

• Unusual eye movements

• Walking in circle

• Hearing loss

Home Remedies For Dog Ear Infections :

Following natural remedies allows the owner to treat minor infections and to clean the dirt and debris from ear,these ingredients are inexpensive and easy to get and the best thing is that they all works .

1. Apple cider vinegar :

Acetic acid in vinegar can help get rid of dirt and debris from ears. But more importantly, it may kill each yeast and bacteria. However if your canine has sore,red ears, don’t use vinegar as this will be very painful for him. Use one of the other treatments rather.

Way to use :

• Mix apple cider vinegar and water in equal amount in a glass . 
• Soak a cotton ball in it and clean your dog's ear gently. Or put a drop of solution in ear and clean thoroughly.

2. Oregano oil :

It is another natural antibiotic.It  should be diluted before use unless it may cause irritation

Way to use :

• To half oz (ounce) of pure Aloe Vera juice add one drop of oregano oil .
• Put one drop in the ear or soak a cotton ball and swab the ear with it .

3.Coconut oil :

Coconut is both antibacterial and anti fungal .Studies on dermatitis proved that it is an effective anti fungal. 

Way to use :

• On low heat put 2 tablespoons of coconut oil with two fresh garlic cloves ( for extra antibacterial power) in a saucepan.
• Simmer until the oil is liquid then let it cool slightly.
• Put 2-3 drops into the ear or dip the cotton ball in the mixture and use it to clean your dog's ear.

4. Calendula :

Calendula is a potent anti fungal herb and also offers pain relief.It has amazing healing abilities and it is used to treat local skin problems and ear infections.It can either be used externally or internally.

Way to use :

• Put calendula flowers in a glass jar add 1-2 slices of chopped garlic pour olive oil till it covers the flower completely.
• Let the mixture sit for 3-4 days.
• Strain and soak a cotton ball or put drops of warmed oil into the dog's ear and clean the ear gently.

Caution :

In case if you suspect that a foreign particle/body is stuck in your pet's ear, this will be causing the ear infection.Ear infection will no longer leave till the item is removed.
Never try to cast off the item your self.As a substitute, take your canine to the vet.

• Due to the fact the ear canal is L shape, foreign items can be deep in the ear, out of plain sight. Specialized gadgets and physical or chemical restraint are normally needed to thoroughly dispose of the infectious agent .That is why it is vital to permit your vet handle it.

Medication :

Natural remedies for ear infections are a safer alternative to many ear medications because some medications may increase the risk of hearing loss in pets.

To help prevent ear infections, it's important to clean your pet's ears regularly with an ear cleanser. When your pet has an ear infection that is itchy, treat it with Zymox with hydro-cortisone for 7-14 days and then wait 2-3 days before cleaning your pet's ears or using another ear medication. 

• If the condition worsens, see your veterinarian immediately."