Showing posts with label dog ear hematoma. Show all posts
Showing posts with label dog ear hematoma. Show all posts
Friday, October 24, 2014

"My Dog Shakes His Head All Of The Time"


"My dog shakes his head all of the time"... Does this sound familiar?
Some head shaking is normal, but if it is excessive, it usually indicates that your pet's ears are bothering them and this is their way to relieve the symptoms.  The key is to find out what is causing them discomfort or pain. 

Possible Causes:

Otitis Externa, an inflammation of the external ear canal. Once inflamed, an ear infection can follow. Ears are a prime location for bacteria and yeast infections, It is warm, dark and moist, just the kind of place infections like to grow.  Even a mild yeast infection could cause your dog to shake his head frequently. Symptoms could also include redness, swelling an unpleasant odor (indicating yeast)  A common cause for ear infections are  underlying allergies.  Here is an interesting article on ear infections and  yeast.  We have had wonderful results using K-9 Yeast Defense . Diet can also play a big part so be aware that  food allergies in pets can be a trigger.

Ear Vasculitis-an inflammation of the vessels in the pinna or ear flap. More common in breeds like Dachshunds and Jack Russell Terriers. The ear flap will  begin to have a thickening of the outside margins of the ears, which eventually become ulcerated and then crust over. Treatment of the inflammation and any open ulcers are advised.  In addition, adding fish oil, such as  Amazing Omegas could help with Ear Vasculitis.

Ear Mites- a close examination of the outer ear and the visible part of the inner ear will reveal a fine dark substance that looks like coffee grounds, which indicate that mites have taken up residence.  If you suspect ear mites see your vet for a microscopic evaluations and treatment.

Ear Hematomas  If your pet shakes his head too much from the ear infection, it can cause other problems, such as an ear hematoma which is when a pocket of blood forms on the ear flap. Treatment usually consists of the blood being released from the hematoma, a treatment your veterinarian must do.