While it’s natural for dogs to scratch their ears, excessive scratching and head shaking could indicate a medical issue. Hematomas, in particular, are painful blisters which often form on dogs’ ears, but they can also be located elsewhere in the body. If your dog is exhibiting strange behavior, it’s important to have a veterinarian check them for this condition or a different root cause. Find out more about what hematomas entail below.

How Veterinarians Treat Canine Hematomas

What are the symptoms of hematomas?

In addition to persistent scratching, your dog may also have swelling and discoloration at the site of the hematoma. The condition can be isolated to one ear flap or be found on both. Be careful inspecting your pet’s ears, as the painful blisters may be sore to the touch.

What causes the condition?

Hematomas occur when blood accumulates beneath the skin as a result of vessels bursting. They are often brought on by injury or irritation. For instance, some dogs may scratch or shake their heads excessively when experiencing an ear infection, which can then lead to a hematoma.

In addition to the ears, hematomas can also form internally. While symptoms aren’t always outwardly identifiable, issues such as incontinence, seizures, and pain may occur. Hematomas on the organs can be caused by injuries and blood clotting disorders.     

How Can Hematomas Be Treated?

The treatment of a dog’s hematoma will depend on its size and location. While surgical procedures may be necessary in some cases, many veterinarians have the technology to use less-invasive treatments whenever possible. Laser therapy, for instance, reduces inflammation by stimulating cells and tissues to facilitate proper healing. This non-invasive treatment is painless and is typically performed in sessions lasting 10 minutes or less.

If you suspect your dog could have a hematoma, don’t hesitate to visit the veterinarians at Animal Care Center of Fairfield in Ohio. This team of compassionate animal care professionals utilizes leading technology to provide the best quality of care for your pet. With extended doctor hours, they also help you avoid hefty emergency vet fees, even if you’re not already a patient. View their office hours on their website or call (513) 829-6621 to schedule an appointment.