Information about these mites
There are various kind of mites that can live in the dog’s ear. But the most common among them is the Otodectes Cynotis. They are small parasites with eight legs. These little creatures feed on the dog’s ear wax and oils. A mite has a three-week lifespan. These beings are rarely detected through the naked eyes.
If the mites are staying in the dog’s ear for a prolonged period, these organisms can cause inflammation and infections to the external and the internal ears. If left untreated, severity of the infection can also happen. The debris, often seen on the affected dog's outer ear, has the physical properties same as the coffee grounds.
The causes
These mites are highly infectious. One can find these microorganisms mainly in house cats, they quickly transfer these mites to their canine counterparts. They are mostly passed from casual contacts with other pets. Humans are immune to the mites.
Signs
1.Excessive rubbing and scratching of the ears.
2.Frequent head shaking
3.Occasional waxy secretion in the color of black and brown.
4Strong odor from the affected ear.
5.inflammation
6.Obstruction of the ear canal.
Some complications of ear mites
Ear mites can also rupture the ear flaps in the dog’s ear, and also can act as a catalyst in developing skin infections in our furry friends, as result of the dog's intense scratching and head shaking. This will cause the ear flap to appear swollen and is painful to the pet. A condition called the aural hematoma, as it’s known, often requires surgery to correct.
Which breeds are more prone to the condition?
Ear mites can affect any dog of any age. It is a common misconception that ear mites only affects a selected few breeds, but the reality is precisely the opposite. Recent estimation says that a massive number of our furry friends gets affected by ear mites every year in the USA.
So what should I do if I sense the presence of ear mites
It is imperative from the owner’s side to bring the pet to a vet for an accurate diagnosis. The vet will collect sample from the ear canal. And then he will evaluate it microscopically to confirm the presence of ear mites. Self-diagnosis should be avoided. Few kinds of bacterial infections can mimic the symptoms of ear mites.
Treatment
1.These mites infections can be treated with few canine products. The vet will prescribe some medications that the owner has to apply directly to the ear. Or medications specifically for the skin is also a great option.
2.If the ears have build-up debris out of infection, the owner will have to clean the affected area gently. The owner may use a cotton and a canine ear cleaner for the purpose. The vet may use the process of sedation when cleaning the affected area. Sedation depends upon the dog’s temperament and the severity of debris build-up.
3.The vet may also prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs or antibiotic drugs to resolve infections.
4.A dog will soon get relief after the treatment begins. The owner must complete the full course of the medicines to prevent the reoccurrence of the condition. The owner will have to ensure that all the pets in the house get the proper vaccinationb against the condition.
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