In the climatic conditions of Dubai, where hot days are often followed by dusty winds and high humidity, ear infections in dogs with long, floppy ears occur with alarming regularity. Otitis externa is recognized as the most commonly diagnosed form of ear inflammation. It affects the integumentary cells of the external auditory canal.
The rapid development of infection in Dubai is due to a combination of the anatomical structure of the ears and the humid environment. Dogs with long ears do not get sufficient ventilation, which makes it easy for sand, dust and water to accumulate inside. Even a short swim or walk can lead to fluid accumulation in the L-shaped ear canal. In such conditions, bacteria, along with yeast fungi, begin to actively colonize the tissue. At the same time, there is an increased production of earwax, which serves as a breeding ground for microbes.
The breeds that are most prone to ear infections include spaniels, Basset Hounds, Labradors and poodles. According to observations, approximately 20% of all dogs experience some form of ear disease at least once in their lives. In such breeds, the ear structure and thick fur inside the canal create a humid atmosphere favorable for the growth of pathogenic flora. If the animal is prone to allergic reactions or chronic inflammation, the risk of ear infection increases significantly. Allergens, various food triggers, pollen, and hormonal disorders can weaken the protective functions of the skin of the ear canal, turning inflammation into a permanent problem.
Keeping a Lookout for the Signs
The first signs of the disease appear quite quickly. The dog begins to shake his head frequently, intensively scratch his ears with his paws or rub them against furniture and the floor. Upon careful examination, you may notice swelling, bright redness, soreness, and a peculiar odor. Earwax can change color to brown or greenish. In severe forms of inflammation, coordination of movements may deteriorate and hearing loss may occur.
Visit any of the veterinary clinics so the vet can use an otoscope to diagnose your pet. With its help, the veterinarian carefully examines the auditory canal and evaluates the integrity of the eardrum. To clarify the causative agent of the disease, a smear is taken for cytological examination. If the inflammation does not stop after a course of therapy or neurological symptoms occur, an MRI or CT scan may be required, as well as a myrigotomy, a procedure for puncturing the middle ear.
Treatment usually begins with a thorough cleansing of the ear canal. Special solutions are used for washing, which help to remove sulfur, yeast and bacteria. When otitis externa is diagnosed, the animal is prescribed drops with an antibiotic or antifungal properties. If necessary, corticosteroids are added to therapy to reduce edema and inflammatory response. If the inflammation becomes more severe, the veterinarian may prescribe a course of oral antibiotics or antifungal medications. In case of deep tissue damage or the detection of a foreign object, surgical intervention is indicated.
Tips and Tricks for Your Pet’s Optimum Ear Health
In hot and humid climates, prevention is particularly important. After bathing or walking, it is recommended to gently pat your pet’s ears with a soft cloth immediately to remove any remaining moisture. Using cotton swabs is unsafe, as they easily push dirt inside and increase the risk of injury to the eardrum. Special solutions that help maintain cleanliness are more suitable for care, but they should be used only once or twice a week to maintain the natural balance of the microflora.
If a pet is prone to allergies, vets advise identifying and excluding food or external stimuli, because their influence often becomes an invisible cause of chronic inflammation. Experts also recommend paying attention to the thick fur around the ears. In some breeds, it is trimmed so that the air circulates more freely.
Habitual actions, like careful inspection, careful drying, and gentle cleaning, help prevent most infections. In places with constant humidity, such measures become reliable protection. Taking care of the purity of the ear canal helps to protect the animal from pain, hearing loss and severe complications, including otitis media and otitis interna.
If there is a smell from the ears, itching, redness or signs of imbalance, you should not postpone a visit to the pet clinic in Dubai. The sooner the diagnosis is carried out and treatment is started, the sooner the pet will return to a healthy state and comfort.
