I noticed my dog has some brown discharge in her ear and she's been scratching a lot. Could this be an infection? What’s the best way to treat it at home or should I visit the vet? Thanks!

Hi there! It sounds like your dog might have an ear infection, but don’t worry, let's see what we can do. Brown discharge and itching are common signs of an ear issue, and sometimes they can become pretty uncomfortable for your pup. Here's what you can look out for:

• Redness or swelling inside the ear
• A strong smell coming from the ear
• Shaking the head or tilting it to one side
• Crusting or scabs in or around the ear

If your dog seems in a lot of pain, if you see any blood, or if the discharge is increasing, those are signs to see a vet sooner rather than later. Also, if she starts acting lethargic or stops eating, that’s a sign the infection might be affecting her general health.

For now, you can try gently cleaning the visible part of her ear with a solution of equal parts water and vinegar or a pet-safe ear cleaner, if you have one. Avoid sticking anything deep into her ear canal to prevent injury. Keep her ears dry, especially after baths, as moisture can worsen infections.

If symptoms don’t improve in a couple of days, or if they worsen at any time, it’s best to have your vet take a look. They can determine if there’s a bacterial or yeast infection and prescribe the right treatment, which might be necessary since antibiotics or antifungal meds can’t safely be administered at home.

If you're unsure or your pet’s symptoms worsen, it's best to book a call with a vet on Dial A Vet for professional advice.