Dog shaking head, painful ear, black discharge. Is it an infection?

This presentation could be due to an ear infections. Three sections of the ear can be infected, the external portion (otitis externa), the middle portion (otitis media) and the inner portion (otitis interna). Otitis externa is the most common ear infection in dogs. In this case it seems an external ear infection but an otoscopic examination will determine the exactly the extension of it. A clinical examination at your local veterinarian is essential to confirm these clinical suspicions and treat appropriately. Antibiotics may be needed.

The signs you are describing are indicative of an ear infection. Sometimes, these can resolve with topical over the counter treatment, but antibiotics or antifungal medication may be necessary. I recommend using an ear cleaning solution or wipes to clean the ear once or twice a day. There are many options available in pet stores, but look out for something with a mild acid in it (salicylic acid or apple cider vinegar are good ingredients). If the condition does not begin to resolve on its own, Baloo may need to be seen by his vet for prescription medications. I hope this helps and that all is well!

It would be Rambler has an ear infection. That would cause her to shake her head a lot, scratch at her ear, and whine in pain when scratching the ear. Ear infections in dogs can be caused by ear mites, yeast, or bacteria. A vet is needed to diagnose if she does have an ear infection, what's causing, and to prescribe medication to treat it. I would take her into the vet first thing in the morning. Best of luck.

Hello. I am so sorry that Buddy is having problems with his ears. Shaking & the discharge are all indications of an ear infection from bacteria or yeast organisms, inflammation from allergies ( food or inhalant ), or ear mites. Your veterinarian can look in the ears & obtain samples to examine under the microscope. Depending on what is seen will dictate treatment to clear up the problem quickly. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

It sounds like Lilo may be developing an ear infection again. Ear infections can be caused by bacterial, parasitic or fungal infection, 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. Lilo 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. If she is shaking her head or scratching at her ears, please book an appointment to have Lilo seen as soon as possible to help get her feeling better. If she seems comfortable and is not doing those things then she can likely wait until Friday.

Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! It sounds like Snow may have an ear infection, which can be pretty uncomfortable for her. She should be seen by a vet to assess the severity of the condition and begin the appropriate treatment. Treatment may include oral antibiotics or topical antibiotics. I hope this helps and am happy to answer any questions you have!

Wow, something very strange. It looks like Pimms likely has an ear infection, in addition to whatever that critter/plant material is that has attached itself to her ear. She needs to get to a vet ASAP. This is certainly not life threatening, but I would still consider going to an emergency clinic for promote evaluation, cleaning, and treatment because she's probably quite uncomfortable. Good luck!