Newsletter Archives
Spring 2002

Ear Disease: The Whole Picture!

Ear ailments are one of the most common problems seen in dogs, and are intermittent in cats. Approximately 15%-20% of all dog patients and 6%-7% of all cat patients have some type of ear disease. The problem is that dogs and cats can have ear disease and not show clinical signs until it becomes quite severe. Signs of ear disease are scratching at the ears, shaking of the head, or whining when the ears are touched. Some ear infections can be lifelong problems if the underlying problem is not resolved or under control. It is essential that owners know that ear infections hurt. Because it is an infection it can be the catalyst for infection elsewhere in the body. It can cause hearing loss and possible neurological signs if the infection has moved into neurological tissues. It can be a major expense if the infection has not been properly treated the first time and is completely healed. Causes of ear disease can be allergies (dust, pollen, grass, trees, food), bacteria, fungal, parasites, foreign bodies (hair, grass awns, foxtails), and hypothyroidism. The allergy aspect of ear disease is the number one problem seen by veterinarians. The explanation as to how skin or food allergies can pertain to having an ear infection lies in the physical make up of the inside of the ear.

So, how is all of this diagnosed? It is always routine to obtain a swab sample from the inside of the ear when the patient is present at the clinic. This can sometimes allow us to see bacteria, yeast, and mites. Sometimes we will culture the swab if we need to know the exact bacteria that are growing to allow us to use an antibiotic that is sensitive to those particular bacteria. This is very important, especially if the infection is chronic.

It is possible the medication that is being prescribed is not killing all of the resistant bacteria. Blood work is taken sometimes, especially if we suspect hypothyroidism.

The new and exciting aspect of ear disease diagnosis and treatment has come along in the form of the Video Vetscope. This machine now allows us, with the animal under sedation or anesthesia, to see deep into the ear canal through a lens that displays onto a television screen for all to see. (The sedation or anesthesia that may be required is due to the usual nature of ear disease being quite painful. Painful enough that most patients will not allow a thorough exam without it.) The video scope can show us if the ear canal is swollen, red, if any foreign bodies are present, ticks, mites, excessive wax build up, wax balls, and most importantly if the tympanic membrane, which separates the external ear canal from the middle/inner ear is intact. This is important in treatment regiments. There are many ear medications that are toxic to the middle/inner ear. If they are applied, the initial problem can, and most likely will, get worse, causing even neurological signs to surface. Another wonderful aspect is that it allows us to take photographs of the problem to show the owner. We can also take before and after pictures to show the importance of, for example, the flushing procedure to remove wax and debris, or the biopsy instrument to pull out foreign bodies.

Last, but not least, ear disease is treatable. Parasites are treated with insecticides, bacteria with antibiotics, and yeast with anti-fungals. Foreign bodies can be removed. Wax, dirt and debris can be flushed out. Tumors can even be removed. The most important thing is proper diagnosis, proper treatment until complete resolution, and routine physical exams. It falls on the veterinarian and the staff to educate the owners on the proper way to find out what the problem is and the proper way to treat that particular problem. All owners must be shown how to take care of ears at home because this is where all of the medicating and ear cleaning takes place. If done right, the pet and owner can look forward to getting on with more happy days together.

Have a Heart

All of us from Gunston Animal hospital want to thank all of our wonderful clients who have donated to our have a heart fund. This fund has enabled us to find many homes for abandoned animals and has helped save many pets lives.

We have 3 beautiful cats that need good homes so please spread the word and help us. One of our beloved employee's, Wanda Martin, passed away last year from a heart attack. We miss her greatly. Her family is unable to take care of her 3 cats Levi, Poly, and Spookier. We have them at Gunston and they would love to meet you.

Levi is a 10-year-old gray and white kitty. He loves to hang around the staff and get as much attention as possible. Whenever a chair is empty, he makes himself at home. He loves to help with paperwork and computers are his specialty. He is in great health and his blood work looks great.

Polly is 4 years old, is a brown and white long hair tabby and loves to follow you around. Polly has a very unique characteristic which is she is polydactyl (she has extra toes). These kitties are extra special and their personalities are great. She is a beautiful sweetheart.

Spookier is a beautiful black male neutered kitty that is 4-5 years old. He is a typical cat who loves to sleep on the very top cabinet and watch from above. He gets along with all of the Gunston's dog and cat gang. He is laid back and very sweet. Adopted!

Staff Additions

Hi, I'm Andrea McNally. I'm 22 years old and live in Woodbridge Va. with my German Shepherd "Lady." I love animals, the environment, and will be purchasing a boxer puppy soon. Please stop by to see her and say "Hi." I am the new receptionist and look forward to meeting all of you.

Hi, my name is Laura Kilgore. I am married and have two children, Dustin 15 years old and Kayla 12 years old. We have four cats - Daisy, Dandelion, Sunshine, and Moonshine. I enjoy cooking and entertaining in my spare time. I am the new veterinary assistant.

Hi, my name is Bridgette Scott. I am engaged and have a 2 year old daughter named Destiny. I do not have any pets at this time, though working here, I'm sure I will soon. I enjoy writing, photography and swimming. I've always adored animals and love working with them. I am the new veterinary assistant.

Donations Needed

If you have any old towels or blankets, our adorable and precious patients would love to cuddle and hide in them.

Thank you!