You’ve just discovered that your dog’s ear is bleeding, and you may be feeling concerned and alarmed. It’s important to understand the common causes of ear bleeding in dogs, recognize symptoms of a veterinary emergency, learn how to stop the bleeding temporarily, explore treatment options, and more.
Why is My Dog’s Ear Bleeding?
Dog ears are filled with tiny blood vessels, which help cool them down when they’re hot. Even a minor injury can cause significant bleeding due to the large surface area. Ear bleeding in dogs can have various causes, including trauma, blood blisters (aural hematomas), infection, parasites, and even cancer or other lesions.
Types & Causes of Ear Bleeding in Dogs
Bleeding in a dog’s ear can be triggered by several factors:
Aural Hematoma: Also known as blood blisters, aural hematomas develop between the skin and cartilage of the ear flap. This condition often leads to head shaking, swelling, scratching, and a head tilt. If the hematoma bursts, it may bleed profusely.
Cancer or Other Lesions: Not all growths or tumors are malignant, but they can still cause bleeding. Growths may develop in the ear canal or on the ears themselves, leading to dark, oozing, or crusty discharge.
Ear Infection: Infections in the inner or outer ear can result from allergic reactions, bacterial accumulation, or yeast infections. These infections can cause bleeding, inflammation, and discomfort.
Parasites: Ear mites are one of the most common parasitic infections causing ear bleeding in dogs. Other parasites, like fleas, ticks, and flies, can also lead to inflammation and infection in the ears.
Trauma: Excessive scratching or external sources can cause self-inflicted ear bleeding. Systemic complications can also result in bleeding within the floppy part of the ear, leading to a hematoma or inner ear infection.
Symptoms of Bleeding in a Dog’s Ear
Different causes of ear bleeding can manifest with various symptoms. Look out for these signs in your dog:
- Blood in the ear canal or outer rim
- Pain or tenderness when the ear is touched
- Discharge of yellow-brown or black/brown color
- Reluctance to open mouth
- Excessive scratching or head shaking
- Swollen ear canal
- Balance issues like nausea or circling
- Odors emanating from the ear canal
- Swelling in the floppy part of the ear
- Constant attention paid to one or both ears
- Aversion to being touched or difficulty hearing
How to Stop a Dog’s Ear from Bleeding
If the blood is coming from inside the ear canal, it’s essential to see a veterinarian immediately for diagnosis and proper treatment. However, if your dog’s ear tip is bleeding, you can take these steps at home:
- Stay calm and bring your dog to a calm environment.
- Gather a first aid kit containing a bandage, styptic powder (or cornstarch), antiseptic ointment, and absorbent pads (e.g., gauze, clean towels, or cotton balls).
- Apply the styptic powder or cornstarch to the wound to encourage clotting. Press the absorbent material against both sides of the ear and apply pressure for about five minutes. If bleeding persists after 10 minutes, see a veterinarian.
- Apply antiseptic ointment around the cut, avoiding direct application on the wound.
Remember: A bleeding ear qualifies as a veterinary emergency if your dog was in a fight, the wound is deep, or the bleeding spontaneously restarts.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to Bandage a Dog Ear Tip
To bandage an ear tip:
- Fold the ear over the top of the head and apply clean gauze to the wound.
- Use a gauze roll bandage to secure the wound, starting from the top of the head, under the chin, and back to the top.
- Ensure the bandage is firm but not too tight. You should be able to fit three fingers between the bandage and the chin area.
- When wrapping the bandage, let it cross slightly to the back of the previous layer and then back to the front. This creates a small criss-cross pattern protecting the injured ear.
- Use a marker to indicate the location of the ear beneath the bandage.
- If you don’t have a clip, you can use the last length of the bandage to tie it together.
Please note that finding a fabric your dog will tolerate on their ear may require trying different types of first-aid bandages, sweatbands, bandannas, or light scarves.
Diagnosis of Bleeding Ears in Dogs
After bandaged your dog’s bloody ear, it’s crucial to contact your veterinarian for an appointment. Be prepared to provide a complete history of the situation, including the signs, severity, and duration of the bleeding, as well as your dog’s diet and recent changes. Your vet may perform a physical examination, order a complete blood count (CBC), and collect other samples to diagnose any infection or underlying issues.
How to Treat Bleeding Dog Ears
Once your veterinarian has gathered all the necessary information, they will create a treatment plan specific to your dog’s condition. Treatment options may include:
- Antibiotics or topical medications for infections
- Steroid medications to reduce inflammation and promote healing
- Surgical drainage and repair for hematomas
- Removal of foreign bodies, ear wax buildup, or parasites
- Pain medication to keep your dog comfortable
Conclusion
If you discover your dog’s ear bleeding, it’s important to take appropriate action. By understanding the potential causes, recognizing symptoms, and seeking veterinary care, you can ensure the best possible outcome for your furry friend. Remember, timely treatment is crucial for successful recovery.
For more information and expert care for your pet, visit Pawsoha today.
Note: This article provides informative content but does not substitute proper medical advice for your pet. For accurate diagnosis and treatment, please consult your veterinarian.