COMMON DISEASES AFFECTING DOGS
Caution -
Never give your pet any medications unless specifically instructed to do so by a vet. Many human medications can have dire consequences to animals.
Many common household plants can cause kidney damage to your pets if ingested, and Just
a small amount of many chemicals used in the home can be fatal to an animal.
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| FOLLOW
LINKS BELOW, DISEASES LISTED ALPHABETICALLY WITH COMMON NAME, ALTERNATE
NAME, DESCRIPTION AND SYMPTOMS |
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DISEASE |
ALTERNATE
NAMES |
DESCRIPTION |
SYMPTOMS |
| ALLERGIES | Atopy Atopic Dermatitis Dermatitis Food Allergies |
Reactions to allerens such as insections, pollens and food | Itchiness, rash, may chew feet and scratch lips and/or face |
| ABSCESS | - |
Infected swelling | Will go off food, may run a high temperature, and veterinary advice should be sought as the abscess may rupture and puss will leak out |
| ANAL FURUNCULOSIS | Perianal fistulas | Deep unsightly sinuses that track through the skin, sometimes with flat open areas of ulceration. They are usually confined to the skin around the anus, but in severe cases they can spread as far as the flanks and run down the inside of the hindlegs. The cause is unknown and occurs almost exclusively in the German Shepherd Dog. It is seen in both sexes, also in GSD crosses. It usually initially occurs in dogs aged 3-8 years | The skin lesions are irritable resulting in self-trauma, and affected dogs often lick and bite at the affected region. There may be pain, difficulty and straining during defaecation. If the lesions spread down the legs the dog may walk with a straddled gait. Affected dogs are often tail-shy and won't allow people near their rear end, or to touch or lift their tail. |
| ANAL GLANDS | - |
'Scooting' (dog dragging itself along the group), Yelping on sitting down, tail chasing | Anal sacs are located on either side of the anus. They contain a very smelly, oily substance that is normally expressed (squeezed out) when the animal defecates. Sometimes the secretions can thicken or the animal gains weight and they don't get expressed properly. This can lead to impaction and ultimately infection. The condition can be irritating, itchy and extremely painful at various stages. A trip to the vet is warranted for examination and expression of these sacs. Anal Sac problems can be controlled by diet, and you should seek veterinary advice. |
| ARTHRITIS | Osteoarthritis Degenerative Joint Disease |
Arthritis in dogs is very much similar to arthritis in humans and not limited to older dogs. Younger dogs can acquire this disease as well. Some of the causes of arthritis in young dogs are injuries and accidents. If your dog has sustained severe damage in its legs during its younger years, it is very possible that the condition will lead into arthritis later on in its life. Certain infections or diseases may give rise to dog arthritis as well. There are therapies to reduce pain and inflammation including omega 3 fatty acids, acupuncture, antioxidants, magnetic beds, hydrotherapy and herbs. Glocosamine and chondroitin sulfate supplements can also nourish and repair the cartilage (more information) | Inactive and overweight dogs are the most likely candidates for this health concern. It is a degenerative disease that causes stiffness in the joints and muscles. The disease is more common in older dogs because the joints sustain wear and tear with continued use. The pain associated with this condition can be very intense for some dogs, with difficulty standing after lying down for sustained periods, limping and obvious pain when walking. Exercise is important, as regular movement triggers the release of a lubricating fluid for the joints. These fluids, together with other supplements and sometimes pain relief from the vet can help the dog have a good quality life. (more information) |
| ADDISONS DISEASE | Primary Hypoadrencorticism | Adrenal cortex fails to produce glucorticoid hormones | Weakness, lethargy, collapse, diarrhoea, poor appetite, shaking, shock, vomiting. |
| AGGRESSION | Idopathic Rage Syndrome | Does not show fear, dogs will growl or bite without good cause. If your dog is showing signs of aggression that are out of character, you should rule out any medical problems or injuries that may be causing your dog pain by asking the vet for a check up. | Growling,
biting, threatening display. Apart from pain and stress, there are medical
conditions that can cause a change of behaviour causing aggression in
a dog. For example, Congenital or Acquired Neurological Problems Hypothyroidism, Encephalitis [a condition that causes inflammation of the brain and can cause neurological signs, including aggression]. Head Trauma, Brain Tumours, Epilepsy, and Seizures. |
| AUTOIMMUNE HEMOLYTIC ANEMIA | AIHA | Immune system attacks red blood cells, causing anaemia | Pale mucous membranes, fever, lethargy, enlarged spleen, vomiting, overall weakness, jaundice, weakness in the legs, loss of appetite, enlarged lympth nodes, orange coloured faeces and dark coloured urine. For further information contact C.I.M.D.A 73 Osidge Lane, Southgate, London, N14 5JL. or contact jo@cimda.fsnet.co.uk |
| ASCITES | - |
Swelling of the abdomen and a frequent complication of a liver, kidney, heart, abdominal tuberculosis or parasite infestation disease. | A swooshing of liquid, which if in large quantities can put pressure on the diaphragm, producing serious respiratory problems. Veterinary help should be sought asap. |
| AGALACTIA | Failure to produce milk | Hormonal dysfunction, stress, systemic disease and/or can be associated with Mastitis | Absence of milk, restless, hungry and crying puppies who fail to thrive. |
| ACROMEGALY | - |
Chronic hormone disorder caused by an increase of soft tissue and bony structures. | Worsens in adulthood and caused by the production of higher than normal amounts of growth hormone. Symptoms are dogs snorting when they breath due to the the abnormal amount of soft tissue around the larynx. In chronic cases, the skin becomes folded, increase thirst followed by frequency of urination, raised blood sugar levels, together with fatigue. |
| AUTO IMMUNE DISEASE | AID | Some breeds are at a higher risk of developing AID than others. The immune system is the natural healing mechanism of the body, Autoimmune disease is a condition in which the body fails to recognize the invasion of micro organisms due to some underlying health conditions, as it generates autoantibodies that affect the normal cells and tissues. |
The symptoms of canine autoimmune disease may vary depending upon the type of autoantibodies generated by the body and the targeted area. In canine autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA), the autoantibody targets red blood cells. Dogs may show lethargy, weakness, vomiting, abdominal pain, increase in heartbeats and breathing rate. Other symptoms include loss of appetite,diarrhoea, [sometimes with blood in stools], leg weakness, stress and depression, skin disorders and mouth ulcers, lesions, especially around nasal area, weight gain or weight loss, enlarged lymph nodes, seizures, anemia, abnormal posture, alteration in gait and unusual body odour. |
| DISEASE |
ALTERNATE
NAMES |
DESCRIPTION |
SYMPTOMS |
| BLOAT | Gastric Torsion Gastric Dilation-Volvulus |
Stomach enlarges dramatically, can then twist itself sealing off trhe entry and exit to the stomach. The spleen enlarges and causes torsion of the major vein bringing blood to the heart. | EMERGENCY - Restlessness, abdomen is enlarged and will feel hard. The dog will be lethargic, in pain, panting, pale mucous membranes and vomiting foam and saliva with shallow breathing. It is often due to eating large amounts of food and or exercising too soon before or after exercise. Air is produced in large quantities causing gas, more common in large breeds. (more information) |
| BLADDER STONES | Urinary Stones Urinary Tract Stone Disease Urinary Calculi Ureteral Calculi Urinary Calculus disease Cystic Stones |
Cystic stones are found mainly in bitches and appear with a urinary tract bacterial infection within the bladder which causes crystals to form. The two most commn types are struvite and calcium oxalate crystals. Breeds susceptible to bladder infections that can prompt the formation of small stones are Boxers, Poodles, Dalmatians, Dachshunds, German Shepherd dogs, Pugs, Irish and Cairn terriers | Frequent urination and Radiographs of the urinary system are required to determine if stones are present in the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. Homemade diets are often recommended for dogs with chronic bladder disorders such as bladder stones. If processed foods are fed, most holistic veterinarians prefer canned diets, which contain large amounts of water, as opposed to dry foods. Home made diets can consist of cottage cheese, hard boiled egg, long grain brown rice, chicken, oil and brewers yeast. |
BURNS
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In the case of a severe burn, or scald, the dog should be taken to the vet asap as he will be in extreme pain and should be handled with caution. If he falls into shock, keep him warm with blankets and hot water bottles. Avoid any ointments, creams that could interfere with treatment. Use a sterile gauze or a clean cloth soaked in a warm solution of bicarbonate of soda. . |
In the case of electric burns, the dog will possibly be in a state of shock. Signs are listlessness, gasping for breath, glazed eyes, colourless gums, and temperature well below the normal of 101.2°F. The lower the temperature, the slower the circulation, which is why you must keep the dog warm. |
| DISEASE |
ALTERNATE
NAMES |
DESCRIPTION |
SYMPTOMS |
| CANCER | Breast Cancer Hemangiosarcoma Malignant Histocylosis Mast Cell Tumors |
Hemangiosarcoma is the cancer most likely to affect dogs | Hemangiosarcoma is a cancer of the blood vessels that may affect the spleen, heart, liver or skin |
| CAUDA EQUINE SYNDROME | CES Spinal Stensis Lumbosacral Malarticulation Narrowing of the spinal column Lumbar Disc Disease |
Spinal irregularities in the lumbar region of the spine that cause pressure on the Cauda Equine Nerve | A painful tail that may appear to be broken, with loss of neurological messages to the hind quarters. May drag hind feed and eventually suffer loss of bladder and bowel control. This disease requires early detection and early intervention to prevent permanent nerve damage. |
| COPROPHAGIA | Consumption of faeces | Not un common behaviour among dogs. May result due to various medical problems, among them are exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, pancreatitis, intestinal infections, malabsorptive syndromes, and over-feeding. Can be a learned/maternal/ dominance behaviour or attention seeking. | Treatment depends on the cause.(more information) |
| CATARACTS | - |
Clouding of the lens in the eye that will eventually head to blindness | White haze over the eye |
| CONSTIPATION | - |
Constipation is the abnormally delayed or infrequent passage of dry hardened faeces | Canine constipation n is sometimes caused by eating bones or other indigestible food and/or objects. There are other causes of dog constipation particularly if associated with alternate bouts of diarrhoea. Symptoms include straining to pass faeces, and showing signs of obviously pain when trying to pass faeces. |
| CORONAVIRUS | E
Coli |
The disease is sometimes confused with parvovirus. The two diseases may occur simultaneously in which case symptoms are more severe. Corona is never seen in adult dogs, and after the first year's worth of puppy shots and booster your dog is protected for life. | Highly contagious and can weaken puppies causing severe diarrhoea and somtimes vomiting. (more information) |
| CORNEAL DYSTROPHY | Chlosterol deposits | Deposits of lipids (fat) on the cornea of the eye. May interfere with vision. |
White spots on the eye |
| CUSHINGS DISEASE | Hyperadrencorticism | Tumour of the Adrenal Glands or Pitutary Gland that causes an increase of Cortisol. Tumours are usually benign. | Increased thirst and appetite, hair loss, paunchy abdomen, weak muscles, increased urination. |
| COLITIS | Inflammatory Bowel Disease Irritable Bowel Syndrome Spastic Bowel Syndrome Lymphocytic-plasmacytic |
Inflammation of the colon, the colon being another name for the large or lower intestine. | The most obvious signal of colitis is loose stools, mucus and an increased frequency, with the dog passing small amounts, and often appearing constipated.Red blood, rather than black, tarry blood associated with small intestine bleeding, is indicative of the bleeding coming from the colon. Veterinary advice should always be sought in the first instance, and treatment can very individual for each dog, but you may find some advice here. Colitis Treatment |
| COLD TAIL | DEAD TAIL Limber Tail Syndrome |
Often seen in working breeds like English Pointers, English Setters, Foxhounds, Beagles, and Labrador Retrievers. Ages of affected dogs range from 0.5-9 years old. The cause of limber tail is not known although it is thought to be associated with hard workouts (especially in underconditioned dogs), heavy hunting, and swimming or bathing in water that is too cold or too warm. |
Pain may be seen on palpation of the tail base and some dog seems very uncomfortable. Rest is recommended. Recovery is usually seen within two weeks and often within a few days although it can recur again in around a third of cases. Anti inflammatory drugs can sometimes shorten the recovery time and warm packs at the base of the tail can relieve the pain. |
| CYSTINE STONES | Cystinuria | A genetic defect of the kidneys which has predominantly been reported in Dachshunds, Basset Hounds, English Bulldogs, Chihuahuas, Yorkshire Terriers, Irish Terriers, and mixed-breed dogs. Except for Newfoundlands, Cystinuria has been recognized almost exclusively in male dogs. | Frequent urination, blood in the urine, frequent urinary tract infections, difficult urination, scanty urination, dribbling urination, evidence of pain when urinating, a reluctance to urinate, or anything at all about their urinary habits that doesn't seem totally normal. |
| CEA | Collie Eye Anomoly | A non-progressive congenital eye disease prevalent in Rough and Smooth Collies, Border Collies, Shetland Sheepdogs, Australian Shepherds and Lancashire Heelers. CEA is an abnormality of the choroid layer of the eye, so is technically referred to as Choroidal Hypoplasia (CH). | A pale patch (due to a localised lack of retinal and choroidal pigment) in the dorso-lateral region of the choroid, near the optic disc.(more information) |
| CYSTITIS | Inflammation of the bladder | Occurs quite frequently in dogs, and more common in bitches than males | Frequent attempts to pass urine, may squat and strain and produce only small amounts of blood stained, and often a foul smelling thick liquid. Some bitches show signs of pain when passing urine, and may cry out, and/or turn suddenly to lick the vulva. Cystitis should not be confused with constipation, when bitches strian to pass faeces their back is usually arched, but they usually have hollowed backs when passing urine. |
| CANINE ZINC RESPONSIVE DERMATOSIS | - |
A dysfunctional zinc metabolism and probable malabsorption in the small intestines. Affected dogs do not respond to oral or intravenous zinc supplementation. |
Stunted growth, diarrhoea, numerous cutaneous or internal infections, and crusted and fissured paw pads are seen. The internal infection usually manifests as pneumonia and is directly related to diminished cellular immunity. Puppies usually die or are euthanized. (more information) |
| DISEASE |
ALTERNATE
NAMES |
DESCRIPTION |
SYMPTOMS |
| DRY EYE SYNDROME | Dysfunctional Tear Syndrome | The majority of cases are caused by immune-mediated destruction of the tear glands. Other sources of dry eye include, Drug toxicity, Antibiotics, such as sulphadiazine and sulphasalazine which can cause temporary or permanent dry eye in some dogs. Conjunctivitis, Trauama to the Tear Glands, Hypothyroidism and Breed pre disposition. | Dogs pre disposed to Dry Eye are the American Cocker Spaniel, Bulldog, West Highland White Terrier, Lhaso Apso, Shihtzu, Pug, and Pekingese, but it is not heard of in other breeds. Symptoms include conjunctivitis with reddening and swelling of the conjunctiva, squinting or blinking excessively, a thick yellow or mucoid discharge from the eye, light sensitivity, and/or a prominent third eyelid. It is often diagnosed with the The Schirmer tear test which involves the vet sticking small strips of absorbent paper on the inside of the eyelid. |
| DIARRHOEA | - |
This can be caused by an abrupt change in diet, and sometimes internal parasites (worms), ingestion of a foreign body, or a more serious illnesses. | Veterinary advice should be sought if diarrhoea continues for more than 24 hours or the dog becomes lethargic. A dose of Kaolin is often a quick remedy in the short term, and vets often recommend 24 hours starvation, ensuring plenty of boiled water is available [a dog should never be left without water]. Then start with a diet of dried brown toast or chicken and boiled rice feeding regular and often in small quantities until the faeces re back to normal. If a dog is very off colour and seems really ill this could indicate infection in the stomach and will need to be treated by a vet. Warning - Do not give Immodium (loperamide) to any Collies or related breeds (more information) |
| DEGENERATIVE MYELOPATHY | DM Paralysis |
Disease of the nervois system similar to Multiple Scleerosis in humans. Not fainful, but can be fatal. | Weakness in hind legs and difficulty standing up. Hind feet will drag and knuckle with hind leg muscle wasting. Loss of bladder and bowel control, will eventually affect front legs. |
| DEMODEX | Scabies Red Mange Mites Demodicosis Demodes |
Demodex can be localized to small patches, or can be generalized to the whole body and is a very serious form of the disease. | Localized red skin patches and hair loss, usually on the face, ears or legs. If generalized hair will have a moth eaten appearance with hair loss. |
| DEHYDRATION | - |
A serious and a potentially life-threatening condition. The dog's body contains an insufficient volume of water for normal functioning and as in humans. there are many potential causes of dehydration including severe vomiting or diarrhoea, diabetes, or extensive bleeding, | Eyes appear sunken and lack moisture. Mouth, gums and nose are dry. When hydrated, if you pinch a little skin between your thumb and forefinger on your dog's back. When you release it, it should pop back into place immediately. As the tissue under the skin loses moisture, the skin moves back more slowly. In extreme cases, the skin doesn't pop back Dehydration can be fatal if fluids are not replaced, and it is essential to discover the origin of the condition. |
| DISTEMPER | Hard Pad | Distemper is an acute, highly contagious, viral disease which is transmitted through the air or via body secretions. Canine distemper virus is fatal to 80 percent of the puppies and 50 percent of the adult dogs that contract it. The canine strain of the virus can affect a wide range of organs including the eyes, skin, brain and the intestinal and respiratory tracts. | A nasal and eye discharge, twitching, coughing, diarrhoea, vomiting and seizures. The virus produces abnormalities of the puppys developing enamel and the foot pads may become thickened. |
| DIABETES
INSIPIDUS |
Central Diabetes Insipidus Nephrogenic Diabetes Insipidus |
Much less common in dogs than Diabetes Mellitus . The kidneys are unable to retain water, resulting in excessive losses of dilute urine and an increase in thirst. |
The main clinical signs are increased thirst and increased urination which may be mistaken as incontinence, and being weak or lethargic. Other signs may be present if the animal has secondary diabetes insipidus, neurological signs may be present if the animal has a brain tumour. |
| DIABETES MELLITUS | Sugar Diabetes | The cause being a lack of available insulin being produced by the pancreas, or failure of the tissues to respond to the effects of the hormone leading to raised sugar levels in the blood. More common in middle and older aged dogs. . | Drinking lots of water, urinating frequently and increased hunger with weight loss. More common in bitches over 8 years of age than in males, and more often than not occurs soon after a bitch has been in heat. |
|
DERMATOMYOSITIS |
Canine Familial Dermatomyositis | Dermatomyositis is one of a group of muscle diseases known as the inflammatory myopathies. They are characterized by chronic muscle inflammation and muscle weakness. primarily in the Collie, Shetland Sheepdog and their related crossbreeds. It has been reported occasionally in the Chow Chow, Beauceron, Welsh Corgi, Lakeland Terrier, GSD, Miniature Schnauzer, Miniature Dachshund, and Kuvasz. Canine familial dermatomyositis is a hereditory inflammatory disease affecting skin and muscle in a breed at known increased risk. The cause of this disorder is unknown. | Hair loss with crusting and pigmentary skin changes. Dogs first begin to show signs at about 12 weeks of age and it may look like scrapes on the face, ears, elbows, hocks and other friction points. In German Shepherds and Welsh Corgis pawpads can also be affected which become swollen. In chronic cases, scarring of the skin occurs. Lesions occur over bony areas due to susceptibility to trauma. The disease does not cause much pain or itchiness unless skin ulcers develop. Extensive exposure to sun may trigger aggravation of the disease. . Severely affected dogs show growth retardation, enlarged esophagus, lameness, and whidespread muscle wasting, and have difficulty in siezing. grasping or otherwise getting food into the mouth. Infertility is an additional symptom. |
| DEAFNESS | Genetic Deafness | General anesthesia can cause bilateral deafness along with trauma, otitis [ear infection]. | Apart from disease and trauma, older dogs suffer with deafness in various forms. Old age hearing loss in unlikely to affect your dog's quality of life too much, and any changes you make towards him need only be minor. |
| DISEASE |
ALTERNATE
NAMES |
DESCRIPTION |
SYMPTOMS |
| ELBOW DYSPLAYSIA | Fragmented Coronoid Process Fractured Coronoid Process Degenerative Joint Disease Ununited Anconeal Process Non union of the Anconeal Process Ostechondritis Dissecans |
The term Elbow Dysplaysia covers a group of developmental defects of the elbow joint that can occur in any area of the joint. | May limp on front leg(s), and may have shortened stride. usually diagnosed at the time of OFA or OVC. Symptoms may or may not be immediately obvious, but this defect increases the risk of arthritis in the elbow. |
| EPILEPSY | Seizures Fits |
Primary
epilepsy can only be diagnosed by ruling out other disease that are known
to produce seizure.
Epilepsy generally starts in dogs 6 months to 5 years of age, usually at 2-3 years.
Epilepsy is a disorder of recurring seizures. A dog with epilepsy will exhibit periodic bouts of uncoordinated firing of the neurons within the brain. These episodes are called seizures and occasionally referred to as convulsions or "fits." |
Causes are Congenital defects, Blood glucose levels that are too high (e.g.; diabetes mellitus) or too low (hypoglycemia), Low oxygen levels in the blood that could be caused by anemia , heart problems, or difficulties with breathing. Kidney disorders, Liver disorders, Infections such as canine distemper, Tumours, Toxins, like antifreeze, lead, or chocolate, Fevers and hyperthermia, Brain damage resulting from trauma or poor blood flow to the brain, Certain medications, Low calcium in females that are nursing young (eclampsia), Primary or idiopathic epilepsy. Symptoms, Shaking, involuntary movement of legs, blank stare, rigidity. |
| EXOCRINE PANCREATIC INSUFFIENCY | EPI Malabsorption Syndrome Pancreatic Acinar Atrophy Paa Pancreatic Hypolasia |
Pancreas does not produce enough of the enzymes that digest food | Diarrhoea, which can be chronic. Excessive food intake but continues to lose weight. Gassy stomach with flatulence. |
| ECLAMPSIA | Milk Fever | Calcium deficiency during pregnancy or during the first three weeks after labour. This can be a potentially life threatening condition for the bitch* |
Typically characterized by twitching, nervousness, restlessness and a stiff, painful gait. First signs can be the bitch looking weak and lethargic. Symptoms include, Fever, vaginal discharge, loss of appetite, listlessness or a lack of interest in the puppies (potentially a sign of an inflammation of the uterus - metritis). Twitching, nervousness, restlessness and a stiff, painful gait, may be a sign of eclampsia, a calcium deficiency. Inflammation of the breasts (mastitis). Mammary glands become red, hard and painful. Diarrhoea may develop by the mother especially if afterbirths were eaten. This is not unusual in the first few days after the birth, but may be a sign of other complications and should be reported to your vet. *If your bitch is having fits or convulsions it is an emergency and you should call the vet immediately, day or night, and tell him that your bitch is suckling a litter. |
| ENTERITIS | - |
An inflammation of the intestines | Bloody diarrhoea and vomiting. It may be the result of a bacterial or viral infection, or can be caused by a foreign object trapped in the intestine. Veterinary intervention should be sought without delay as the dog can become dehydrated in hours and it can be deadly. |
| EAR MITES | Otodectes cynotis | Ear mites are common yet extremely contagious. Left untreated they severely damage the ear canal and eardrum causing permanent hearing loss.. They can be passed from the mother animal to her offspring. Mites can easily spread to other pets within the household including cats, dogs, rabbits, hamsters, gerbils, mice, ferrets, etc. Humans are not affected | Dogs will scratch around their ears and/or shake their heads. The amount of scratching and shaking depends on the severity of the mite infestation. With severe infestations, the ear canals will bleed and either fresh or dried blood will appear inside the canal. If you peer into your pet's ears and notice a build-up of a material that looks like coffee grounds, then your pet probably has ear mites, although a bacterial and/or yeast infection is also a possibility. |
| ENTROPION | Ektrepein (to turn out) | Entropion is usually due to: an inherited faulty eyelid conformation that manifests in young adult dogs. Breed related entropion usually affects dogs under 1 year of age. This hereditary disorder was due to selective breeding to create exaggerated facial features with prominent eyes and/or heavy facial folds | The lashes rub against the eye which often has a red and sore appearance. Your dog may be sensitive to light and may rub at its eyes. Both eyes are usually affected simultaneously. All breeds can be affected, but breeds most susceptible are the Bloodhound, Bulldog, Chow Chow, Mastiff, Retriever, Rottweiler and Shar Pei. |
| EAR DISEASE | Otisis Externa | Inflammation of the Ear | Pain and discomfort, and some degree of irritability. Ear scratching, head shaking, swelling and an unpleasant aroma. Causes are widespread from ear mites to allergies |