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Your dog’s skin may seem tough, and scratching is often overlooked as commonplace. Like humans, however, every dog’s skin is different, and they can be prone to allergies, infections, and other issues. A related problem that’s important to look out for is hematomas. These pockets, which develop in the ear, can be a constant source of discomfort, and below, you’ll find everything you need to know to ensure your pet sees a veterinarian and receives treatment.

Your Guide to Hematomas in Dogs

What Are Hematomas?

A hematoma is a blood deposit that forms between the skin and cartilage on your dog’s ear. They develop when your pet shakes their head or scratches their ear too much, causing the earflap to smack against their skull forcefully.

Blood leaks out of the vessels and then deposits in a pool in this area. The primary issue is the reason your pet is scratching. It may be ear mites, skin allergies, or a bacterial infection, and you’ll need to see a veterinarian so they can investigate and address both the hematoma and related complication.

What Are the Symptoms?

veterinarian-rolling-hills-veterinary-hospitalThe hematoma is an obvious blood pocket on your dog’s ear flap. The area just around it will be swollen, and the hematoma may be hard or soft. Related symptoms will include excessive ear scratching and head shaking. If the issue is related to skin allergies, you may also notice redness or flaking around the area. Pets prone to skin allergies are more likely to experience hematomas, so familiarize yourself with proper skin care based on what the veterinarian advises.

How Are They Treated?

The most popular treatment is to resolve the hematoma through surgery. Your pet will be anesthetized, and a veterinarian will remove the fluid and blood through an incision. They’ll then suture the inner surface of the ear below the outer surface so that minimal scar tissue forms. Multiple smaller incisions via pet laser surgery are also an option, or the veterinarian may draw out the blood with a syringe.

 

If you’re looking for a veterinarian in the Columbia, MO, area, turn to Rolling Hills Veterinary Hospital. They have two convenient locations, and their staff is committed to ensuring pets feel comfortable and welcome. They offer a variety of services, including emergency treatment, pet grooming, and boarding, all of which you can explore on their website. Call (573) 449-3791 for their Buttonwood Drive office or (573) 449-3791 for their Keene Street location.

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