Ear Yeast infections in Dogs

by

SamPup Moore

Dog Ear Yeast Infection is quite common, generally in those dogs that spend a great deal of their time outside. It is more of a difficulty in breeds with hanging ears – like Spaniels and Bassett Hounds – yeast and bacteria prospering in warm, gloomy and humid conditions. It is uncommon in dogs with pricked ears (ears that stand up), but the infection can however occur.

Should your dog look to be upset, chafe or rubs his ears or is constantly shaking his head, then you should have a look at his ears. You might notice redness and swelling, possibly a discharge but unquestionably an foul scent. This is just about certainly a dog ear yeast infection, but it needs to be verified by your vet. If it is not dog ear yeast infection then your dog may have ear mites.

How to Avoid Dog Ear Yeast Infection

To start with, be sure your dog\’s over-all health is good, to be certain that his immune system is working properly. Give him plenty of exercise and the correct eating routine – no table scraps.

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Check your dogs ears on a regular basis, not less than once a week. It is a good plan to check them following walks, especially in long grass where seeds etc can be picked up.

Keep your dogs ears as clean and dry as possible. Yeast loves moisture so if you have a dog with floppy ears try and get as much air to the interior of the ears as feasible. Hold the ears up while you are having a cuddle together or if your dog will tolerate it use a headband to hold them up – only round the home though! Dry any dampness after bathing, swimming or just being out in the rain.

Trimming any surfeit hair from within the ear will be of assistance in preventing all sorts of

dog ear infections

. Some advocate using watery vinegar, alcohol or even hydrogen peroxide to wipe around the outer ear to wash it. You are better advised to purchase one of the various mild and nontoxic ear-cleaning products available. Use sterile gauzes or pads for washing. On no account start probing in the ear canal with cotton wool buds.

Be extremely cautious washing the outer ear, you don\’t want to injure the ear drum or ear canal.Dog Ear Yeast Infection – Treatment

When treating dog ear yeast infection try to avoid anti-biotics as these kill off all the \’good bacteria\’ and can upset the dog\’s natural balance. This may result in dog ear yeast infections getting a hold that may be difficult to reverse.

Look into the use of anti-microbials. Health food stores often stock these and they can help to reduce dog ear yeast infection. But don\’t forget to talk to your vet before using any medication for your dog, even herbal or \’natural\’ remedies.

If the yeast infection in the dog ears is severe you will have to discuss the use of enzymatic anti-microbials such as Zymox, with your vet. This may prevent and protect against dog ear yeast infection.

Always talk to your vet first before you use any treatment on your dog.

For further information check out our articles on

Dog Ear Yeast Infections

and

Dog Health

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Categories: Dog Rescue