Do you know or suspect that your dog has hearing problems? Although no one has an exact number, most estimates guess that as many as ten percent of our canine buddies are deaf. That’s a lot of pups! A Marietta, GA vet discusses deaf dogs, and offers some care tips for them, below.
Causes
In many cases, genetics are to blame for doggy hearing problems. Deafness is more prevalent in white dogs. Pups with merle coats also have higher risks of hearing damage or loss. Of course, any dog can develop hearing problems as a result of injuries or infections. Older dogs also sometimes develop hearing trouble just as a result of aging.
Symptoms
There are some signs that your pet is losing his hearing. The most obvious one would be if he stops responding to sounds. Fido may also bark or howl both more often and more loudly. If he can’t hear himself, he may think he needs to ‘shout.’ Pups with hearing issues also tend to startle easily. Your furry pal may get irritated if you surprise him from behind. If your pooch has an infection, you might notice him tilting, shaking, or pawing at his head, and you may detect foul odors or discharge in his ears. Call your vet immediately if you notice any of these issues.
Care
Dogs that can’t hear well can still make wonderful pets. You’ll just need to take a few extra precautions and maybe do some things differently. Fido won’t hear you calling, so you’ll need another way to get his attention. Flashlights can work very well for this. Your canine pal may be able to still hear very high or low sounds, such as a dog whistle or a piano key. It’s worth a try! Most deaf dogs hate being startled, so stomp your foot before approaching him. We also recommend teaching your pooch to respond to hand signals instead of vocal commands. Safety is also a concern. Never let your dog run around off-leash, except of course in fenced-in areas. If you are walking your four-legged friend, walk facing oncoming traffic, if you can. You may also want to put an ‘I can’t hear!’ sign on your cute pet. Ask your vet for more care tips.
For more information on deaf dog care, contact us, your Marietta, GA animal clinic, today! We’re here to help!
