Itchy Skin & Ear infection

Here at Ambassador Animal Hospital in Columbia, we see the same problems in our patients that are seen in veterinarian offices throughout the world. One of the most common conditions we see is itchy skin and ear infections. More often than not, these both start out as an allergy your pet has. Your pet can be allergic to things like certain foods, chemicals, and environmental things like pollen or dust. Some dogs are even allergic to cats and cats allergic to dogs. Food allergies and being allergic to your other pets are rare conditions. More than likely, your pet is most likely allergic to the same things that set your allergies off, dust, or pollen.

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Signs of Allergies

Pets can have many types of allergies. Dogs often exhibit these allergies by developing itchy skin. Ear infections are also another common sign of an allergic reaction, especially when they occur repeatedly. You may notice your pet sneezing a lot or he may have watery eyes or a runny nose. More often, you will find him scratching and biting at his fur. This may not seem too concerning until you start seeing bald patches from all the scratching and biting. This constant irritation can result in red, dry patches, and, if the skin becomes broken from his nails, a secondary infection can develop. To your pet, this all feels like a deep itch inside that does not go away. 

Signs Of Ear Infections

If your pet is constantly shaking their head, has a discharge from their ears, or foul odor coming from their ears, it could mean your pet is suffering from an ear infection.

Chronic ear infections are one of the most common reasons why a dog needs to visit their local veterinarian. If your veterinarian suspects an ear infection, they will use a cotton swab to better examine the infection. This sample will allow the veterinarian to view it under a microscope to fully understand the situation. Dogs with floppy ears or hairy ear canals seem to be more prone to ear infections. 

What You Can Do

One of the first things you can do to ease your pet's discomfort is to bathe him in an oatmeal bath. This will not last long, however, because continued exposure to whatever is causing the allergy will cause the symptoms to return. If the cause is obvious, and you can easily remove it from your pet's environment, this is the ideal solution. Making an appointment with your veterinarian will allow him to test for different common allergens. Most often, you will be given a pet-safe antihistamine to help counteract the allergy. If secondary infections have occurred, you may be given medication to help health. 

Call Ambassador Animal Hospital Today!

If your pet is exhibiting pet skin and ear infections, making an appointment with a veterinarian is important for both his and your comfort. In the Columbia area, you can contact us at Ambassador Animal Hospital, and we will have your pet back on track quickly. Taking care of allergies quickly will help prevent secondary infections. We want to see you and your furry family member happy and comfortable. Give us a call today.

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Columbia Office

Monday:

8:00 am-6:00 pm

Tuesday:

8:00 am-6:00 pm

Wednesday:

8:00 am-6:00 pm

Thursday:

8:00 am-6:00 pm

Friday:

8:00 am-6:00 pm

Saturday:

9:00 am-12:00 pm

Sunday:

Closed