English Springer Spaniels, with their energetic disposition and gentle personalities, are a popular breed among dog owners. However, their floppy ears can make them prone to ear infections. Here, we present 11 ways to treat and prevent ear infections in English Springer Spaniels and highlight the importance of Omega-3 fatty acids in their diet to tackle allergies.
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1. Regular Ear Cleaning and Checks
Regular ear cleaning and checks should be a part of your dog’s grooming routine. Monitor for signs of infections such as redness, abnormal discharge, or unpleasant smell. Use a vet-recommended ear cleaner to gently clean your dog’s ears.
Our favorite ear cleaner is these PetMD brand ear wipes on Amazon.
2. Thorough Drying After Baths or Swimming
As English Springer Spaniels love playing in the water, it is crucial to ensure that their ears are thoroughly dried afterward. Trapped moisture in the ears can become a breeding ground for bacteria and lead to infections.
3. Omega-3 Fatty Acids in Diet
Omega-3 fatty acids play a vital role in managing allergies that may lead to ear infections. These essential fats are anti-inflammatory agents that can reduce allergic reactions. Omega-3 can be introduced into your dog’s diet through fish oil supplements or foods like flaxseeds and cold-water fish.
We’re fans of this Norwegian salmon oil on Amazon. It’s a bright orangish-pink color and has no fishy smell at all due to it’s ultra high purity.
4. Regular Vet Visits
Regular veterinary check-ups can help in early detection of potential ear infections. Your vet can provide a professional cleaning service, significantly reducing the risk of infections.
5. Allergen Avoidance
It’s important to identify and avoid allergens that could cause allergies in your Springer Spaniel. These can range from specific food ingredients to environmental allergens like pollen and dust mites.
A few good supplements to help your dog’s allergies are apple cider vinegar, quercetin, and colostrum, all of which are found in many natural allergy supplements like this one.
6. Updated Vaccinations and Parasite Control
Ensure your Springer Spaniel’s vaccinations are up-to-date, and they are on a regular parasite control regimen. A healthy immune system is more capable of fighting off infections.
7. Use of Prescription Medications
If an ear infection does occur, your vet may prescribe antibiotics or antifungal medications. Adhere to the prescribed dosage and course of treatment for effective results.
8. Surgery in Chronic Cases
In severe or recurrent ear infection cases, surgery to alter the structure of the ear canal might be considered. Discuss this option with your vet if chronic infections persist.
9. Probiotics for Gut Health
Maintaining a balanced gut microbiome with the help of probiotics can boost your dog’s immune system. This, in turn, can make them more resilient against infections, including those in the ear.
10. Use of E-Collars
E-collars can help prevent your dog from scratching or rubbing infected ears, preventing further irritation and aiding in the healing process.
11. Maintain Overall Cleanliness
Keeping your Springer Spaniel’s living environment clean can prevent many health issues, including ear infections. Regularly clean their bedding, toys, and feeding dishes.
FAQs on Ear Infections in English Springer Spaniels
1. Q: How can I tell if my English Springer Spaniel has an ear infection?
A: Common signs include frequent scratching, head shaking, abnormal ear discharge, swelling, redness, and foul odor. If you observe any of these, consult your vet.
2. Q: Are English Springer Spaniels more prone to ear infections?
A: Yes, due to their floppy ears, Springer Spaniels are more prone to ear infections as the structure of their ears can trap moisture and debris.
3. Q: How often should I clean my English Springer Spaniel’s ears?
A: Weekly cleaning is typically enough for a healthy dog. However, if your Spaniel is prone to ear infections, you may need to clean their ears more frequently.
4. Q: Can a diet rich in Omega-3 prevent ear infections?
A: Omega-3 can help reduce inflammation caused by allergies, a common culprit for ear infections, thus potentially reducing the risk of ear infections.
5. Q: Can ear infections lead to permanent damage?
A: If untreated, ear infections can lead to serious complications, including hearing loss. Hence, immediate treatment is necessary.
6. Q: Is it safe to use human ear infection medicine on my Spaniel?
A: No, it’s not recommended. Always use medicines prescribed by your vet.
7. Q: What are common allergens for English Springer Spaniels?
A: Common allergens can include specific food ingredients, dust mites, pollen, and certain cleaning products.
8. Q: How can I incorporate Omega-3 in my Spaniel’s diet?
A: Omega-3 can be added to your dog’s diet through supplements or Omega-3-rich foods like fish or flaxseeds.
9. Q: Can I completely prevent ear infections in my English Springer Spaniel?
A: While not all ear infections can be prevented, measures such as regular ear cleaning, a balanced diet, and limiting allergen exposure can significantly reduce the risk.
10. Q: What should I do if my Spaniel’s ear infection keeps recurring?
A: Chronic ear infections may indicate an underlying issue, such as allergies or an anatomical problem. Consult your vet for a thorough examination and treatment plan.
In conclusion, through understanding and implementing these strategies, you can significantly reduce the risk of ear infections in your English Springer Spaniel. Prevention is better than cure, and early detection and treatment are key to maintaining the health and happiness of your furry friend.
Toledo, United States.
