Help, what do I do? I noticed something odd with Max, my golden retriever. It’s like a little bump or growth in his ear that wasn’t there before. It’s freaking me out a bit because I’ve never seen anything like it. It showed up after his last grooming session a few days ago, and now it seems like it might be getting bigger. He doesn't seem to be in pain, but he’s been scratching his ear more than usual, and I'm worried it might get worse or be hurting him in some way. It's hard to tell if it's bothering him since Max is usually such a trooper. Did anyone else have a similar experience or know what this might be? Should I rush him to the vet or keep an eye on it for a bit longer? Any advice would be appreciated!
Thanks for reaching out about a concerning change in your dog's ear. It sounds like you're noticing some kind of growth, and it's understandable to feel worried. Let's explore what might be happening.
There are several potential causes for a growth in your dog’s ear. It could be a simple benign condition like a polyp or wart, which is relatively common and often not serious. Other possibilities include infections, which might cause swelling that looks like a growth, or more rarely, a tumor, which would require veterinary evaluation to determine the nature.
For at-home care, ensure your dog's ears are clean but avoid poking around too much, as this might irritate the area further. You can gently wipe the outer ear with a damp cloth if there's visible dirt or discharge. If your dog is scratching at it, try to keep them from doing so, as this could lead to further irritation or infection.
Keep an eye on the growth. If it changes rapidly in size or color, starts to bleed, or your dog seems in pain or shows signs of distress, it would be best to seek professional advice sooner rather than later.
I recommend booking a video consult with Dial A Vet so a veterinarian can get a closer look virtually and guide you on the next steps. This will ensure your pup gets the appropriate care and help set your mind at ease.
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