Ear infection in your gsd puppy
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How common are ear infections in dogs?
Infections of the external ear canal (outer ear) by bacteria or yeast, are one of the most common types of infections seen in dogs. This is called otitis externa.
Some breeds, such as Cocker Spaniels and Poodles, seem more prone to ear infections but they may occur in any breed.
What are the symptoms of an ear infection?
A dog with an ear infection is uncomfortable; his ear canals are sensitive. He shakes his head trying to get the debris and fluid out, and scratches his ears. The ears often become red and inflamed and develop an offensive odor. A black or yellowish discharge commonly occurs.
Don't these symptoms usually suggest ear mites?
Ear mites can cause several of these symptoms, including a black discharge, scratching, and head shaking. Ear mite infections generally occur most commonly in puppies. Ear mites in adult dogs occur most frequently after a puppy carrying mites is introduced into the household. Sometimes ear mites will create an environment within the ear canal which leads to a secondary infection with bacteria and yeast (fungus). By the time the dog is presented to the veterinarian, the mites may be gone, but a significant ear infection remains.
Since these symptoms are similar and usually mean an infection, can I just go to the vet and get some medication?
There are several kinds of bacteria and at least one type of fungus which might cause an ear infection. Without knowing the kind of infection present, your veterinarian will not know which drug to use. In some cases the ear infection may be caused by a foreign body or tumor in the ear canal. Treatment with medication alone will not resolve these problems. Also, the dog must be examined to be sure that the eardrum is intact. Administration of certain medications can result in loss of hearing if the eardrum is ruptured. This determination is made by the veterinarian and must be done in the office.
How do vets find out which drug to use?
First, the ear canal is examined with an otoscope, an instrument that provides magnification and light. This permits a good view of the ear canal. This examination allows veterinarians to determine whether the eardrum is intact and if there is any foreign material in the canal. When a dog is in extreme pain and refuses to allow the examination, he must sometimes be completed under sedation or anesthesia.
The next step is to examine a sample of the material from the ear canal to determine which organism is causing the infection. This is called cytology. Examination of that material under the microscope is very important in helping the veterinarian choose the right medication to treat the inflamed ear canal.
How are ear infections treated? The results of the otoscopic examination and cytology tell the veterinarian what to do. If there is a foreign body or tick lodged in the ear canal, the dog is sedated so that it can be removed. As stated previously, some dogs have such a heavy buildup of debris that sedation is needed to cleanse the canal and examine it completely.
Cytologic study of debris from the ear canal dictates which drug to use. Sometimes it reveals the presence of more than one type of infection (i.e., a bacterium and a fungus, or two kinds of bacteria); this situation usually requires the use of multiple medications or a broad-spectrum medication.
An important part of the evaluation of the patient is the identification of underlying disease. Many dogs with chronic or recurrent ear infections have allergy problems or low thyroid function (hypothyroidism). If a underlying disease is found, it must be diagnosed and treated, if at all possible. If this cannot be done, the dog is less likely to have a favorable response to treatment. Also, the dog might respond temporarily, but the infection will relapse at a later time (usually when ear medication is discontinued).
What is the prognosis?
Nearly all ear infections that are properly diagnosed and treated can be cured. If an underlying cause remains unidentified and untreated, the outcome will be less favorable. A progress check may be needed before the process is completed.
How important is it to treat an ear infection?
Dogs with ear infections are miserable. Their ears are a source of constant pain resulting in head shaking and scratching. However, that is not the only problem. Head shaking and scratching can also cause broken blood vessels in the ear flap, requiring surgery, and chronic ear infections can penetrate the ear drum and result in an internal ear infection.
My dog's ear canal is nearly closed. Is that a problem?
Closing of the ear canal is another result of a chronic ear infection. There are medications that can shrink the swollen tissues and open the canal in some dogs. Some cases will eventually require surgery.
What is the purpose of surgery?
The surgery for a closed ear canal is called a lateral ear resection. Its purposes are to remove the vertical part of the ear canal and to remove swollen tissue from the horizontal canal. Removing the vertical canal should be successful, but removal of large amounts of tissue from the horizontal canal is more difficult. In some cases, the ear canal is surgically obliterated. This solves the canal problem, but it leaves the dog deaf on that side.
What can be done if the ear canals are completely closed?
The most severe consequence of a chronic ear infection is total closure and hardening of the ear canal. When this occurs, the lateral ear resection will no longer be helpful. The appropriate surgery for this situation is an ear canal obliteration. The entire ear canal is surgically removed. Since severe scarring and calcification occur, this can be a lengthy surgical procedure requiring a skilled veterinary surgeon.
Is there anything I need to know about getting medication in the ear?
It is important to get the medication into the horizontal part of the ear canal. Be aware that the dog's external ear canal is "L" shaped. The vertical canal connects with the outside of the ear; the horizontal canal lies deeper in the canal and terminates at the eardrum. The ear canal may be medicated by following these steps:
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Gently pull the ear flap straight up and hold it with one hand.
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Apply a small amount of medication into the vertical part of the ear canal while continuing to keep the ear flap elevated. Hold this position long enough for the medication to run down to the turn between the vertical and horizontal canal.
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Put one finger in front of and at the base of the ear flap, and put your thumb behind and at the base.
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Massage the ear canal between your finger and thumb. A squishing sound tells you that the medication has gone into the horizontal canal.
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Release the ear and let your dog shake his head. If the medication contains a wax solvent, debris will be dissolved so it can be shaken out.
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If another medication is to be used, apply it in the same manner.
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When all medications have been applied, clean the outer part of the ear canal and the inside of the ear flap with a cotton ball soaked with a small amount of rubbing (isopropyl) alcohol. Do not use cotton tipped applicators to do this as they tend to push debris back into the vertical ear canal.
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Pleases care for your GSD the same way you would your self if your ears are bothering you.
Determining if Your Dog has an Ear Yeast Infection
Wednesday, 28 July 2010 21:39 |
As a responsible pet owner, you should know that there are several steps to take to discover if your dog has an ear infection due to yeast. It's important, as a dog owner, to be very familiar with your dog's regular routine and behavior, so that if a change occurs, you'll notice that the dog is behaving differently. First, know how energetic the dog normally is, and be able to describe his normal energy levels and routines to a veterinarian. Does your dog frequently take time to lie down or is he always on the go? Is he eager to go outside for walks, or does he remain on his bed when you open the door? These are just a couple of lifestyle habits you should be aware of. Second, does your dog regularly fidget, lick, shake his head, or scratch certain parts of his body? Or is he free from habitual scratching, only indulging occasionally? From the time you first get your dog, you should take the time to get to know its habits. If you do notice odd behaviors, it's important to keep notes so you can inform the vet. The vet will want to know what behaviors have changed, and if there has been an accompanying change in the dog's activities or surroundings. For instance, if your dog is usually landlocked, but you recently took him swimming, and now you're noticing a change in behavior, the vet will need to know this information. You also will need to describe in detail the behaviors that are alarming. Some of the common behaviors in a dog with a yeast ear infection include scratching the ear, whining, rubbing the ear on the carpet or furniture, shaking the head and moping around with less energy than usual. Symptoms you might notice on the ear itself are redness, swelling, crustiness, discharge, and a foul smelling odor. Once you are able to describe your concerns and the events you've noticed, the vet will take a sample from inside the dog's ear to determine if yeast is really the problem. Bacterial infections may present with almost exactly the same symptoms, but will need different treatment. In addition, the vet will need to examine the dog and his entire ear, inside and out, to rule out other problems like matted hair or an object lodged in the ear. Sometimes, if a dog has grass stuck far inside the ear, or if the dog has contracted ear mites (from contact with an infected dog), the symptoms will mimic those of a yeast infection. If your vet, upon examining the sample under a microscope, confirms the overgrowth of yeast, he will be able to prescribe a topical solution to kill the fungus. He will also advise you about how to avoid recurrence. Once you know your dog very well, and familiarize yourself with telltale symptoms of yeast, you will be able to save your dog from any further problems with yeast infection in the ears. So please take your GSD in to a vet often to check there ears or you can check them your self. Treating pain in your GSD
Wednesday, 28 July 2010 12:55 |
Controlling and treating pain in your GSD is essential to his overall well-being. Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDS ) are a class of drugs commonly used to control pain and inflammation in dogs. NSAIDs are used to help many dogs lead more comfortable, pain free, lives. Exactly what are NSAIDs? NSAIDs are used to help to control signs of arthritis, including inflammation, swelling, stiffness, and joint pain. Inflammation, the body’s response to irritation or injury, is often characterized by redness, warmth, swelling, and pain. Exactly how do NSAIDs work? NSAIDs work by blocking the production of prostanglandins . These are chemicals produced by the body that actually cause inflammation. Some NSAIDs may also be used to control the pain and inflammation following surgery. Your veterinarian may prescribe an NSAID when treating pain in your GSD such as from osteoarthritis or to control pain following a surgical procedure. Here are Veterinary NSAIDs approved for use in dogs: * ETOGESIC * RIMADYL * METACAM * DERAMAXX * PREVICOX * ZUBRIN * NOVOX Did you know, in the United States, there are NO veterinary NSAIDs approved for oral use in cats? What should you know before giving your dog an NSAID? * Never give aspirin or corticosteroids along with an NSAID to your dog. * NSAIDs should be approached cautiously in dogs with kidney, liver, heart and intestinal problems. * Never give your German Shepherd an NSAID unless directed by your veterinarian. * Don’t assume an NSAID for one dog is safe to give to another dog. Always consult your veterinarian before using any medication in your pet. * Only give the NSAID as prescribed by your veterinarian. Do not increase the dose, the frequency, or the length of time you use the drug unless first discussing this with your veterinarian. What should you discuss with your veterinarian? NSAIDs offer pain relief and improved quality of life to many dogs. However, before giving an NSAID, or any drug, you should first talk to your veterinarian. You should discuss: * what the NSAID is being prescribed for * how much to give when treating pain in your GSD * how long to give it * possible side effects * what to avoid while your dog is taking an NSAID * what tests are needed before giving an NSAID to your dog * how often should your dog be re-examined * your dogs previous medical history and any previous drug reactions * all medication and products your dog currently receives What side effects should you watch for? Most NSAID-side effects are mild, but some can be serious. Common side effects seen with the use of NSAIDs in dogs may affect the kidneys, liver, and gastrointestinal tract and may include: * Not eating or eating less * Lethargy, depression, changes in behavior * Vomiting * Diarrhea, black tarry-colored stool * Yellowing of gums, skin, or the whites of the eyes * Change in drinking * Changes in skin (scabs, redness, or scratching) Whenever You Give Your GSD an NSAID, Remember to Watch out for these Signs: Behavior Changes Eating Less Skin Redness, Scabs Tarry Stool/Diarrhea/Vomiting STOP the Drug & Call Your Veterinarian! Very Important: If you suspect a possible side effect to an NSAID when treating pain in your GSD, STOP giving the drug to your dog and call your veterinarian immediately! So please investigate any medications before you give them to your GSD. Same as you would for your self or your child. Last Updated (Wednesday, 28 July 2010 17:16) Parvovirus and your gsd puppy
Monday, 19 July 2010 17:38 |
Canine parvovirus (CPV) disease is currently the most common infectious disorder of dogs in the United States. 'Parvo' is a highly contagious disease characterized by diarrhea that is often bloody. Prior to 1980, most canine parvovirus that caused disease was Type 2 (CPV-2). After 1980, CPV-2 was replaced by CPV-2a became more common and in 1986, another variation called CPV-2b appeared. In the past few years, a new strain, CPV-2c has been detected. Today, CPV-2b has largely replaced the previous strains as the most common parvovirus causing disease in the dog. There is currently some discussion that there may be other strains that are beginning to emerge and have yet to be formally identified. Current vaccinations have helped to control the spread of this disease but despite being vaccinated, some dogs still contract and die from parvo. There is much that we do not know about the virus or the best way to control the disease, but we are learning new information daily. Misinformation about the disease, its spread, and vaccination is widespread. We hope that with a better understanding of the disease, pet owners will be able to make good health decisions for their dogs that will help prevent and reduce the spread of this disease. How is parvovirus spread? Parvovirus is spread through contact with feces containing the virus. The virus is known to survive on inanimate objects - such as clothing, food pans, and cage floors - for 5 months and longer in the right conditions. Insects and rodents may also serve as vectors playing an important role in the transmission of the disease. This means any fecal material or vomit needs to be removed with a detergent before the bleach solution is used. The bleach solution should be used on bedding, dishes, kennel floors and other impervious materials that may be contaminated. The normal incubation period (time from exposure to the virus to the time when signs of disease appear) is from 7-14 days. Virus can be found in the feces several days before clinical signs of disease appear, and may last for one to two weeks after the onset of the disease. What are the symptoms of parvovirus infection? There is a broad range in the severity of symptoms shown by dogs that are infected with parvovirus. Many adult dogs exposed to the virus show very few, if any, symptoms. The majority of cases of disease are seen in dogs less than 6 months of age with the most severe cases seen in puppies younger than 12 weeks of age. There are also significant differences in response to parvovirus infections and vaccines among different breeds of dogs, with Rottweilers, Doberman Pinschers, and Labrador Retrievers being more susceptible than other breeds. The most common form of the disease is the intestinal form known as enteritis. Parvovirus enteritis is characterized by vomiting (often severe), diarrhea, dehydration, dark or bloody feces, and in severe cases, fever and lowered white blood cell counts. Acute parvovirus enteritis can be seen in dogs of any breed, sex, or age. The disease will progress very rapidly and death can occur as early as two days after the onset of the disease. The presence of gram negative bacteria, parasites, or other viruses can worsen the severity of the disease and slow recovery. A less common form of the disease causes myocarditis (inflammation of the heart). How is parvovirus infection diagnosed? Not all cases of bloody diarrhea with or without vomiting are caused by parvovirus and many sick puppies are misdiagnosed as having 'parvo.' The only way to know if a dog has parvovirus is through a positive diagnostic test. In addition to the more time consuming and expensive traditional testing of the blood for titers, a simpler test of the feces with an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay antigen test (ELISA), commonly called the CITE test, is also available through most veterinary clinics. Testing of all suspect cases of parvo is the only way to correctly diagnose and treat this disease. A complete physical exam and additional laboratory tests such as a CBC and chemistry panel help to determine the severity of the disease. How is parvovirus disease treated? The treatment of parvovirus is fairly straightforward and directed at supportive therapy. Replacing fluids lost through vomiting and diarrhea is probably the single most important treatment. Intravenous administration of a balanced electrolyte solution is preferred, but in less severe cases, subcutaneous or oral fluids may be used. In severe cases, blood transfusions may be necessary. Antibiotic therapy is usually given to help control secondary bacterial infections. In those dogs who have severe symptoms, antiserum against endotoxins may be given. Corticosteroids may be given if the animal is in shock. In cases of severe vomiting, drugs to slow the vomiting may also be used. After the intestinal symptoms begin to subside, a broad spectrum de-worming agent is often used. Restricting the food during periods of vomiting is also necessary and parenternal nutrition (providing nutrients intravenously) may be necessary. Undertaking the treatment of affected dogs and puppies without professional veterinary care is very difficult. Even with the best available care, the mortality of severely infected animals is high. Without the correct amount of properly balanced intravenous fluids, the chance of recovery in a severely stricken animal is very small. All parvoviruses are extremely stable and are resistant to adverse environmental influences such as low pH and high heat. Exposure to ultraviolet light and sodium hypochlorite (a 1:32 dilution of household bleach - ½ cup bleach to 1 gallon of water) can inactivate parvovirus. The bleach solution can be impaired by organic matter and needs to have adequate exposure time and proper concentrations to work effectively. Immunity and vaccination If a puppy recovers from parvovirus infection, he is immune to reinfection for probably at least twenty months and possibly for life. In addition, after recovery the virus is not shed in the feces. There are many commercially prepared attenuated (modified) live CPV-2 vaccines available. The current vaccines protect against all strains of the canine parvovirus, including the relatively new parvovirus-2c strain. Although some people have expressed concern about the possibility of modified live vaccines reverting to a virulent strain after being given and then causing disease, studies have repeatedly shown that this does not occur. Commercially prepared vaccines are safe and do not cause disease. The primary cause of failure of canine parvovirus vaccines is an interfering level of maternal antibody against the canine parvovirus. Maternal antibodies are the antibodies present in the mother's milk during the first 24 hours after the puppy's birth. The age at which puppies can effectively be immunized is proportional to the titer of the mother and the effectiveness of transfer of maternal antibody within those first 24 hours. High levels of maternal antibodies present in the puppies' bloodstream will block the effectiveness of a vaccine. When the maternal antibodies drop to a low enough level in the puppy, immunization by a commercial vaccine will work. The complicating factor is that there is a period of time from several days to several weeks in which the maternal antibodies are too low to provide protection against the disease, but too high to allow the vaccine to work. This period is called the window of susceptibility. This is the time when despite being vaccinated, a puppy can still contract parvovirus. The length and timing of the window of susceptibility is different in every puppy in every litter. In one study of a cross section of different puppies the age at which they were able to respond to a vaccine and develop protection covered a wide period of time. At six weeks of age, 25% of the puppies could be immunized. At 9 weeks of age, 40% of the puppies were able to respond to the vaccine. The number increased to 60% by 16 weeks, and by 18 weeks of age, 95% of the puppies could be immunized. When we examine all of the information about maternal derived antibodies, windows of susceptibility, breed susceptibilities, the possibility of unidentified strains, and the effectiveness of different vaccines, we begin to see why there are so many different vaccination protocols and why some vaccinated animals still develop the disease. Vaccination protocols have been developed that will help protect the widest range of dogs. In using these protocols, we understand we will be vaccinating some dogs that are not capable of responding and we will be revaccinating some dogs that have already responded and developed a high titer. But without doing an individual test on each puppy, it is impossible to determine where the puppy is in its immune status. We also realize due to the window of susceptibility, some litters will contract parvovirus despite being vaccinated. By using quality vaccines and an aggressive vaccination protocol, we can make this window of susceptibility as small as possible. The generally recommended protocol is to vaccinate puppies against parvovirus beginning at 6-8 weeks of age, and revaccinating every 3 weeks until the puppy is 16-20 weeks of age. A booster is given at one year of age and every 1-3 years thereafter. Conclusion In summary, parvovirus is a very common problem that is a huge killer of puppies. Due to its ability to be transmitted through hands, clothes, and most likely rodents and insects, it is virtually impossible to have a kennel that will not eventually be exposed to the disease. Modified live vaccines are safe and effective, but despite the best vaccination protocol, all puppies will have a window of susceptibility of at least several days where they will be at risk. In addition, the newer CPV-2c strain presents new challenges since it is less detectable in laboratory tests and current vaccines may not be as effective in providing protection against it. Prompt treatment by a veterinarian will increase survivability in infected puppies and working with your veterinarian on a vaccination program that is best for your puppy is important. The parvovirus is dangerous for your gsd puppy so please get your gsd puppy the shoots they need. Last Updated (Wednesday, 28 July 2010 11:41) |
