Help, I’m really worried about my sweet old dog, Charlie. Over the past couple of weeks, I’ve noticed he doesn’t respond to his name as quickly as he used to, and he seems startled if he doesn’t see me coming up to him. He’s been such a lively part of our family for the past 13 years, and it breaks my heart to think he might be losing his hearing. It’s like one day he was fine, and now he seems disconnected and confused. I've checked for any obvious ear infections or wax build-up, but everything looks normal to me. Has anyone else gone through something similar with their senior dog? I’m just feeling a bit lost about what steps to take next. Any advice would be so appreciated.
Thanks for your question. I’m sorry to hear about your dog's sudden hearing loss. This can be concerning, but I'm here to help you understand what's going on.
Hearing loss in senior dogs can be caused by several factors. One common reason is age-related degeneration, where the nerves in the ears gradually stop working efficiently. Additionally, ear infections or a build-up of wax can block sound waves from reaching the inner ear. Less often, illnesses or exposure to loud noises can cause sudden hearing loss.
At home, you can gently check your dog's ears for any signs of redness, swelling, or discharge, which could indicate an infection. Ensure the ears are clean but avoid using cotton swabs, as they might push debris further in. If you see any signs of infection or if your dog seems uncomfortable, it’s best to get them evaluated by a vet.
Watch for signs like head shaking, rubbing ears, or changes in behavior, which might point to discomfort. If your dog's hearing loss developed rapidly and without any obvious reason, it could be a more serious condition that needs prompt veterinary attention.
I recommend booking a video consult with Dial A Vet so we can take a closer look at your dog's situation and guide you on the next steps for their care.
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