Riverina Allergies Causing Ear Problems For Dogs

Riverina dog owners are being urged to check inside their furry friend’s ears to ensure they have good ear health and aren’t in any discomfort due to allergies in the region.

Dr. Lynne Bodell from Lynne Bodell’s Vet Clinic says that certain breeds of dog are more susceptible to ear problems, but the allergens in the air in Wagga and the surrounds exacerbate the problem.

“Typically it (ear problems) can be more common in floppy eared dogs, you know the spaniels, the bassets, and beagles and those sorts of dogs, but unfortunately we are the centre of allergies in the Riverina”.

Allergies is one of the biggest reasons that dogs experience ear problems, but there are some things that owners can do to try and prevent their pet being affected.

“I think it’s a good idea to reduce the amount of hair in their ears so, I don’t like plucking them all at once that’s a little bit too painful, but if they gradually thin out the hair in their ears, that allows the ears to dry a bit more”, Dr. Bodell said.

Owners can also visit their local clinic and purchase a number of ear cleaners that can be used on a regular basis to keep their dog’s ears clean.

One of the main causes of ear problems in dogs is moisture and warmth in the ear canal which allows bacteria to grow, and Dr. Bodell says owners can keep an eye out for some signs from their dogs as to whether they’re in any discomfort.

“Often you’ll see them, kind of, flick their ears, they’ll be scratching them… and generally if you just look into their ears it should be just skin down there, perhaps just a bit of dust. You shouldn’t see black waxy stuff or it shouldn’t look red and inflamed”.

Dr. Bodell also warned that there is often not a one-size-fits-all solution to ear problems, and they can often be on-going. She recommends working with your vet to find a solution that works for the dog and the owner.

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