A canine's vestibular (sense of balance) system is located in the inner ear adjacent to the hearing receptors. Vestibular disease, a term used to describe a range of disorders that affect a dog's vestibular system, is a neurological condition that inhibits the dog's ability to function. Sending signals to the lower areas of the brain where the inner ear is located, this system controls equilibrium, balance, and orientation. When the nerves in the inner ear become infected and inflamed, the animal experiences pain, discomfort, stress and hearing problems. The dog will also become unable to maintain balance and coordinate eye movements.
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Ear Infections
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Symptoms a dog may display when it has an inner ear infection include disorientation, head tilting, unusual eye movements, dizziness, ear scratching, shaking or rubbing its head or irritability with its ears. The animal may also be walking into objects, vomiting, falling down, swaying its head and body, or displaying a wide-based stance. All these symptoms could also be confused with the animal having experienced a seizure. The dog's behavior can be very frightening and alarming to its owner.
Causes
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Causes of canine ear infections include bacterial infections, food allergies, ear mites, unhealthy environments, tumors or improper dog hygiene.
Veterinary Care
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A dog displaying symptoms of an inner ear infection needs to have veterinary attention quickly so the condition does not get any worse. This is a very serious condition because the disorder could cause permanent damage such as hearing loss. The veterinarian will need to diagnose the exact type of infection the dog has contracted and determine the specific course of needed treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment is highly recommended.
Treatment
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Procedures which may be needed include X-rays, ear culture, CT scan, computed tomography, or an MRI. Inner ear infections are typically treated with drops, antibiotics, or ointments which need to be continued over the length of the prescription to ensure the infection is completely ,cleared up. Early diagnosis and treatment is highly recommended.
Ambiguity of the Disease
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There are usually very few, if any, indications that an infection or inflammation in the inner ear is developing. The dog may appear to be very content and happy right before it begins to display symptoms. The animal may want to stay in the safety of its own bed because of its disorientation, confusion and lack of appetite brought on by the infection. Because of its lack of equilibrium and uncertainty, pet owners need to be vigilant and keep the dog safe during this illness. Although the cause for inner ear infection is vague, there may be a connection to the age of the dog; however, canines of all ages may be affected. The prognosis is very good for a dog with this problem, but the animal may be left with a slight tilt of its head.
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