PINOY PET FINDER - ARTICLE / BLOG

Canine Ear Infections

Anyone who’s suffered from an inner ear infection knows just how painful it can be, but people can vocalize their discomfort and see a doctor for treatment, sadly this isn’t the case for dogs. A dog can suffer from an ear infection for a long time in silent agony unless his owner notices something is wrong. This makes it crucial for dog owners to pay attention to their dogs to notice if anything is wrong.

Inner or middle ear infections can develop into life threatening conditions if left untreated. Many ear infections go unnoticed by pet owners and this can result in serious complications in the pet. It is vital to keep on top of your dog’s health to ensure early detection and treatment of any issues that may be developing in your pet.

A dog that is constantly shaking his head is constantly scratching at his ears may be suffering from an ear infection. Some dogs may hold their heads in a tilted position. Some ear infections cause swelling and inflammation of the head while others will produce discharge in the ears. A bad odor coming from the ears is a sure sign that something is wrong with your dog’s ears. If your dog exhibits any of these symptoms you should never delay in taking him to the vet.

Most middle and inner ear infections are caused by an irritant or infection that started on the exterior of the ear and progressed deeper. This makes it very important that you deal with any problems on the outer ear as quickly as possible. Infections can be caused by poor hygiene, ear mites and dirty living conditions. Unlike humans, ear infections in dogs are usually not of a bacterial nature.

Floppy eared dogs are particularly vulnerable to ear infections. Dogs such as cocker spaniels and bloodhounds should be regularly groomed and have their ears checked for any sign of infection. Floppy eared dogs should also have the hairs in their ears clipped to reduce the risk of infection or dirt getting trapped inside the ear.

If you suspect your dog has an ear infection you should take him to the vet immediately. Your vet will perform an otoscopic examination of the dog to determine if there is a problem and may even take an x ray. In some cases, sedation may be required so the vet can thoroughly examine the ear and perform a cleansing flush.

Treatment usually involves the application of an antibiotic or anti-fungal cream or drops. Oral antibiotics may also be prescribed at the discretion of the vet. If ear mites are the culprit, your vet will provide you with medication to get rid of the mites. Pain relieving drops may also be prescribed to make your pet feel more comfortable. Your vet will also advise you to clean your dog’s ears before applying any medication as this is very important.

Neglecting to address ear infections can result in serious health issues and an untreated ear problem may eventually require costly surgery. Keep your pet clean, monitor his ears for any sign that something is wrong and consult with your vet at the first sign of a problem. Grooming your dog regularly and keeping his ears clean and dry should go a long way in preventing ear infections.

Provided by Pet-Super-Store, find unique products like pet doors and dog training collars.

16 Comments | Posted in » Grooming, Medication, Pet Health

Do Boston Terriers make great pets?

A Boston Terrier makes an excellent pet, but like other excellent breeds, they aren’t for everyone. As they say, it all depends on your lifestyle. Here are some info and pictures of boston terriers to help you decide.

It is said that the Boston Terrier originated in Boston, Massachusetts around 1865. It is thought that Bostons were bred from the English Bulldog and the White Terrier, with possibly some Boxer, French Bulldog and Bull Terrier thrown in. Apparently they were trying to create a new fighting dog. Back then, Bostons were more like a Bull Terrier. The aspect of becoming a fighting dog never caught on and instead they became popular as a companion dog.

This lively, highly intelligent, smooth coated, short-headed, compactly built, short-tailed, well balanced dog, brindle, seal or black in color and evenly marked with white called Boston Terrier and some called Boston Bull has an excellent disposition and a high degree of intellegence, which makes them an incomparable companion. This breed likes to learn and therefore is not difficult to train. Their intelligence ensures they pick things up quickly. At times they can be somewhat willful. There are some owners who have reported that their dogs are good watchdogs - barking only when necessary, while other owners reported that their female Boston Terriers do not bark at the door at all.

Not much grooming is required for Boston Terriers. The boston terrier is an average shedder and is one of those breed that are easy to groom. A pair of comb and brush with a firm bristle brush is needed when grooming this breed. The face needs to be wiped with a damp cloth too everyday as well as the prominent eyes carefully. And like other breeds, their nails needs to be clipped from time to time. Owners should check both the ears and eyes too for possible grass seeds. And because boston terriers are short-faced dogs, they have tendency to snore and drool. The Boston Terrier originally weighed up to 44 pounds (20 kg.). They are also good for apartment as well as country living, but owners should keep in mind that this breed is sensitive to weather extremes. They can live for about 15 or more years.

They are good with children, most especially with elderly people. They are normally sociable pet dogs; they are amiable, playful, very easy to get along with and very friendly with strangers. They are also very affectionate and likes to be part of the family. This breed not only get along with their masters and the people around them; they also can be harmoniously side by side with other canine pets and non-canine pets. But still, they much prefer human companionship and seemingly require lots of attention from their owners. This breed became very popular in the United States, because of its excellent character. Indeed, boston terriers are very loving dogs and will always want to be on their masters’ side, following them around.

1 Comment | Posted in » Breed, Dog, Lifestyle