The dog ear hematoma is a condition where swollen blisters are formed right on the dog’s ear flap. This happens when the gap between the skin and ear cartilage bleeds, causing the ear flap to burst. The good thing is that it is not a serious condition that will affect their health. So how much does the dog ear hematoma surgery cost? Depending on the size of the hematoma, the tag could go from $250 to $2000. The vet can use a compressor for the surgery.
What Cause Dog Ear Hematoma
Aural hematoma can occur because of the dogs’ ear shaking and scratching habits. This typically results in ear infections and ear mites. In addition, the ear infection could also come from foreign lodging objects in the ear flap.
Dogs with big ear flaps are more at risk of aural hematoma. However, all dogs can potentially get it. Pets with bleeding disorders might also develop hematoma even though they’re not shaking their head habitually.
Symptoms
How will you know if your dog has an ear infection? Below are the common symptoms that your dog might show:
- their ear flaps are swollen
- discoloration in the ears
- the shape of the ears are deformed
- they are in pain
- shaking their head more often
- scratching frequently
If you notice that your dog has been uneasy and shows significant discomfort, bring them to the vet immediately.
Diagnosis
After taking your dog to their doctor, their vet will perform a standard physical examination to check what’s wrong. He will most likely see the blisters in your dog’s ear and perform a primary needle extraction. Dog ear hematoma will be confirmed if blood comes out of the dogs’ ear.
Treatment Options
The good news is that this ear infection is not life-threatening at all. But it is important to seek treatment to ensure that your dog is as comfortable as always. In most cases, the hematoma will heal and go away on its own. However, not seeking treatment could result in an ear deformity known as cauliflower ear. If you opt to go for a cure, here are the options for your dog:
Draining
The doctor can treat Small-sized hematomas by making a small incision to the ear flap of the dog. The process will conclude by draining the blister until it’s all clean. Furthermore, this treatment would need gentle aftercare from the dog’s owner.
Surgery
Often, doctors recommend surgery for big hematomas. But apart from being the best option to prevent deformity, it also prevents the hematoma from recurring. Yet, it is important to note that this treatment will require anesthesia, and your dog will most likely undergo post-operative recovery.
Worried that it might be too risky for your dog? Here’s how the surgery will conclude:
- First, the vet will carefully remove the skin in your dog’s hematoma for blood draining and clot removal.
- Second, to prevent recurrence and deformed ear, the vet will place several sutures to connect the ear cartilage to the skin. This will also put a stop to scarring.
- More draining will follow to reduce the risk of infection effectively.
Lastly, for a fast recovery period, their ears will be covered with bondage.
Furthermore, your doctor will advise you to keep your dog’s ears covered all the time until the treatment site has healed.
Recovery Period
After two weeks, you will be advised to re-visit your dog’s doctor. At this point, their bondages and sutures will be removed, given that their ear has healed completely. In some cases, dogs would need an additional two more weeks to heal.
Dog Ear Hematoma Prevention
The best way to prevent dog ear hematoma is by preventing infection from happening as well. If your dog starts to show signs of ear infection, have it treated right away. This will prevent the formation of hematoma respectively. Moreover, ensure that your dog’s hygiene is also well cared for.
References:
Ear Hematoma in Dogs (https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/ears/c_dg_dog_ear_hematoma) March 25, 2019
Dog Ear Hematomas: Signs, Treatment & Prevention (https://www.caninejournal.com/dog-ear-hematoma/) March 10, 2020