What are Chronic Ear Infections?
Ear infections in dogs are secondary to the external ear canal’s inflammation. Ear canal inflammation results in the reproduction of yeast and bacteria that reside in the ear to a point where their numbers are uncontrollable. This creates an unhealthy environment that other harmful bacteria take advantage of and cause an infection in the ear. The growth of these bacteria will eventually lead to more inflammation which causes swelling and makes the tube narrower.
Symptoms of ear infections
There are many signs of ear infection in a dog but below are some of the more obvious symptoms.
- Narrowing of ear canals
- Odor and discharge from the ears
- Inability to stand, walk and keep balance
Causes of Chronic ear infections
Several factors cause ear infections in Bulldogs. These include:
• Allergies to food or environment
• Skin disorders and thyroid disease.
• Hormonal imbalance
• Selective breeding that leads to terribly narrowed ear canals.
Selective breeding as a cause of chronic ear infection
Selective breeding can sometimes result in breeds that have features that make the dog vulnerable to certain diseases. Some give dog breeds that have ear canals that are poorly narrowed. These hypersensitivity and anatomic anomalies increase the dog’s chances of contracting ear infections. Otitis Externa, Ear disease as it is commonly known can be developed at young ages. The breeding that leads to the abnormal ear canals an outcome that emerged due to the decades of “smooched skull” inbreeding of Bulldogs.
Stopping Bulldog Chronic Ear infections
Prevention the infection is should be a priority. Maintaining a healthy environment for the dog is one of the best ways to prevent ear infections. Regular cleaning of the ears can prevent occurrence or recurrence of the disease.
Identification of skin disorders and allergies is a good way to avoid future ear infections.
Besides these methods of prevention, there are natural remedies that can help in stopping ear infections. These include;
Use of apple cider vinegar
Vinegar contains acetic acid that helps remove debris and dirt from the dog’s ears and also kills yeast and bacteria.
Use of mullein
This is a plant with antibacterial properties and works well in treating bacterial infection in the ear. These herbs are mixed with olive oil and garlic, and then several drops are applied into the ear canal using a dropper.
Use of Calendula
These herb has unique healing abilities and is recommended in the treatment of external ear and local skin problems. Whether used externally or internally it is an antifungal herb that also helps relieve pain.
Use of coconut oil
Coconut oil is an effective antibacterial and anti-fungal agent that is recommended by many pet care providers. If used correctly, it can cure ear infection within seven days. After treatment of the infection, ears should be cleaned at least once a week to maintain hygiene.