My dog keeps scratching her ear. Is it ear mites or an infection?

Question

Should I be concerned about ear mites? Miss Daisy has been scratching at this ear from time to time but enough for me to notice something was off. I finally took a look down in her ear and it looks much different than her other one. Any help you could give is greatly appreciated. Pet's info: Dog | Norwegian Elkhound | Female | unspayed | 1 year and 11 months old

Shaneez Wallani, DVM · Accepted Answer

Ear infections can be caused by bacterial or fungal infection, or parasitic infections (like ear mites, as you mentioned) or a combination of these, and can be associated with dietary or environmental allergies or sensitivities, immune system disorders, or a combination of the above. Daisy needs to see a vet to have an ear swab done. Your vet can look at the sample under the microscope and treat appropriately based on what is found. Your vet will also need to examine the ear with a scope to see if the ear drum is intact, as some medications cannot be used safely if the eardrum is ruptured. Ear infections can be very painful, and can sometimes progress to include the middle or inner ear, where they can cause neurologic signs or permanent hearing loss. Please book an appointment to have Daisy seen as soon as possible to help get her feeling better.

My dog keeps scratching her ear. Is it ear mites or an infection?

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