Has your dog seemed slow to respond to noises or vocal commands lately? If so, Fidomay be afflicted with hearing loss. As many as 10 percent of our canine companions are partially or completely deaf. A Hendersonville, NC vet discusses hearing loss in dogs.
Signs
It’s important to know the warning signs. Fido may stop listening or even reacting to commands; not out of disobedience, but because he can’t hear you. He may become less responsive to certain stimuli, such as doorbells, and may be harder to wake up. Or, he may bark excessively, shake his head, or paw at his ears.
Treatment
Treatment options would depend on the cause of Fido’s hearing loss. It’s worth noting that, in some cases, hearing loss may be temporary, particularly if it is caused by wax buildup or debris. In other cases, such as infection, medication may resolve the issue. Even if your furry friend’s hearing loss turns out to be irreversible, treatment may help keep it from getting worse. Contact your vet immediately if you notice any signs of sickness.
Causes
Hearing loss and impairment in dogs can be caused by a variety of different things, including injuries, infections, tumors, and congenital issues. Age can also play a role. Just like people, dogs often experience a loss of hearing as they get older. It’s worth pointing out that some breeds are more highly prone to deafness than others are. These include the Dalmatian, Jack Russell Terriers, Maltese, poodles, and West Highland white terriers, and English setters. Pups with white or merle coats have elevated risks, due to their genetics.
Care
Fido can still live a full, happy life, even if his cute ears don’t work well. You’ll need to keep a close eye on him. Never let him run around off-leash, except in fenced areas. Also, be careful walking your pooch, especially along roadsides, as he won’t hear cars, barking, or other sounds that could signal danger. Training is also important. Many dogs can learn to respond to hand signals, rather than vocal commands. You may find it helpful to teach your pup to respond to a flashlight or laser pointer. Also,avoid sneaking up on your canine buddy. That’s a pet peeve for many deaf pups! Ask your vet for more care tips.
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