1. What is Otitis Externa?

Otitis Externa is the medical term for inflammation of the external ear canal.  External ear inflammation and infection are usually secondary to some underlying issue, such as previous ear mite infections, allergies to food or environmental allergens, excessive hair growing in the ears, excessive water in the ears from swimming, or other hormonal and skin diseases.  Some breeds also seem more prone to ear infections due to very floppy, heavy ear flaps.

2. What agents cause ear infections?

Most ear infections involve a bacteria called Staph. intermedius and/or a yeast called Malessezia.  Both of these organisms are normal inhabitants of healthy canine ears.  However, a change in the environment of the ear may cause these organisms to multiply rapidly, resulting in an infection.  Less commonly, organisms not normally found in the ear can invade the ear and cause an infection.

3. How is this problem diagnosed?

Your veterinarian will usually diagnose Otitis Externa by taking a thorough history. of your pet's problem, examining the ears, and taking a sample of ear discharge for microscopic exam.  In this way, the doctor will be able to identify exactly which organisms are involved In your pet's ear problems and prescribe specific treatment.

4. How is Otitis Externa treated?

The ultimate goal of treating the ears is to change the ear environment back to its healthy state.  Usually the veterinarian will prescribe both an ear cleansing solution and an ointment containing anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory agents.  The cleaning solution will help remove discharge and debris from deep in the ear, and provide a more desirable pH in the ear.  Applying the ointment after cleaning allows much greater effect as it has greater contact with the ear canal tissue.

Depending on the infectious agents involved and the physical exam of the ears, your vet may also recommend other treatments, such as flushing and cleaning the ears under sedation or adding oral antibiotics and anti-inflammatories to the treatment plan.

5. How are reoccurrences of Otitis Externa prevented?

Once a dog has had an ear infection, reoccurrences are common.  You can help prevent reoccurrences by cleaning the ears regularly with the ear cleansing solution.  Ears should be cleaned at least once weekly.  If your dog is a swimmer, clean the ears after swimming.  If your dog has excessive hair in the ears, have a groomer remove the hair regularly.  Bacteria and yeast like to stick to the hair and can make the ear prone to infection.  Most importantly, get into the habit of looking in your dog's ears regularly so any new problems can be addressed immediately.