Dog Ear Blood Blister Problems

Blood blisters are a common health ailment in dogs, especially those dogs with large and floppy ears. The blood blisters, also called ear hematomas or aural hematomas, should be taken extremely seriously as they can grow worse over time and be a sign of other health problems. Learn more about the condition and speak with your veterinarian to help ensure that your dog stays healthy and happy.

  1. Causes

    • Blood blisters in a dog's ears, or ear hematomas, are extremely common in dogs and can be the result of a variety of causes. Dogs with large, floppy ears are most likely to get ear hematomas. When a dog shakes its head more than normal due to an allergic reaction or other illness, it can cause the blood vessels in the ear to swell. A hematoma may form. An ear disease can also be the cause of the hematoma. If your dog gets into a fight and its ear is damaged, a hematoma can also form as the ear heals.

    Signs and Symptoms

    • It is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of an ear hematoma so that you know when to speak with your veterinarian. Speak with your veterinarian if you notice that your dog has a firm, fluid-filled and swollen mass on the inside of its earlobe. You may notice swelling in the ear of your dog before the blister is recognizable. Take notice if your dog seems to be uncomfortable or paying attention to its ear more than usual.

    Treatment

    • You must meet with your veterinarian to assure that your dog receives the proper treatment for its aural hematoma. In some extreme cases, your dog may need surgery. It will be put under a general anesthetic and a surgical incision will be made into the hematoma, allowing the fluid to drain. Less serious aural hematomas may only require medications and close watching or placing a drain in the hematoma.

    Prevention

    • You will only be able to help your dog prevent ear hematomas if you bring the dog in for an examination by your veterinarian. At your dog's appointment, your veterinarian will check for allergies and other conditions that could be causing your dog to shake its head more than normal. He will also do a thorough examination to rule out any other causes, such as chronic conditions in the ear or foreign bodies causing the dog's ear to become inflamed. Follow your veterinarian's instructions to help prevent ear hematomas.