Many health issues are stated, but none more in the local Eugene, Oregon dog clinics or neighborhood veterinarian offices than the dog ears. Yes, in your town too, I am sure. Long eared dogs, feathering inside and some breed dogs are affected by ear problems more than other canines. The key, as recommended by smart breeders, is checking beforehand so the infections do not have a chance to form causing an extensive treatment.
Part of grooming your dog is looking him over from head to toe. If began early in puppy hood they will actually come to you so you can gently palpate the neck up near the opening of the ear. Any elevation of the skin around the neck/ ear area can be documented as to the size by comparing it to an object. Be specific so you can bring that date and size to your veterinarian if a visit is forthcoming. If a pea, raisin, cranberry or pencil eraser can determine the size, keep that object in an envelope for a referral. In a day or two a recheck should be done with size again accurately compared and stated. If there are other symptoms accompanying that discovery, do not hesitate to have your pet get a complete medical, professional, physical. Without even waiting, if you have a concern, see your Vet.
Eugene, Oregon, with some increased dampness during the winter months, your dog might like a drying off after his daily pack walk. This is an excellent time to carefully lift up the ear folds to see any collection of dust, particles or accumulation of ear wax if present. Watch your pets behavior to help your wellness check be complete. If your dog is scratching around the ears, look to see what could be causing the annoyance.
Some pink and white along with natural pigment of the skin is usual in the outer ear area. Look deeply into the ear canal and see what might be a problem. Intense redness, purulent drainage and extreme sensitivity to your touch are signs of ear problems either forming or already a health issue for you canine which demands your veterinarian’s attention.
Some general swabbing with a soft, cotton cloth slightly dampened with hydrogen peroxide and mineral oil has been suggested to me by my vet. This preventive hygiene cleaning is not to be inserted deep into the canal, but only as far as you can see in the outer cannula of the ear. Be aware of the bubbling action of the peroxide by itself which dogs hate. Gently swab the outer ear area since a dog’s ears are extremely sensitive. There are products that you can purchase at your veterinarian’s office designed for ear cleaning also. Ear grooming just by monthly looking, can alert you to steps like these that you can take to prevent ear infections. Trimming , with snub nosed scissors will keep the ear hairs from harboring dirt and creating mats too.
