Yeast Infections In Dogs Ears

Dog Ear Yeast Infection is fairly prevalent, mostly in those dogs that spend a great deal of their time outside. It is more of a difficulty in breeds with floppy ears - for instance Spaniels and Bassett Hounds - yeast and bacteria flourishing in warm, dark and humid environments. It is scarce in dogs with pricked ears (ears that stand up), but the condition can nonetheless happen.

Should your dog look to be distressed, scrapes or rubs his ears or is constantly shaking his head, then you should take a look at his ears. You may spot redness and swelling, perhaps a secretion but certainly an disagreeable odor. This is almost certainly a dog ear yeast infection, but it needs to be certified by your vet. If it is not dog ear yeast infection then your dog could have ear mites.

How to Avoid Dog Ear Yeast Infection

To start with, make sure that your dog's over-all health is fine, to be sure that his immune system is working properly. Give him lots of exercise and the proper eating plan - no table scraps.
Inspect your dogs ears regularly, not less than once a week. It is a useful plan to inspect them following walks, particularly in long grass where seeds etc could be picked up.

Keep your dogs ears as dirt free and dry as feasible. Yeast loves moisture so if you have a dog with droopy ears try to get as much air to the interior of the ears as feasible. Hold the ears up when you are having a hug together or if your dog will allow it use a headband to lift them up - only round the house though! Dry any dampness after bathing, swimming or just being out in the rain.

Trimming any excess hair from in the ear will help to prevent many dog ear infections. Some suggest using watery vinegar, alcohol or even hydrogen peroxide to wipe around the outer ear to clean it. You could be better recommended to buy one of the various mild and safe ear-cleaning products available. Use sterile gauzes or pads for cleansing. Never begin poking inside the ear canal with cotton wool buds.

Be exceptionally cautious cleaning the outer ear, you don't want to harm 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 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.