OkcPets Magazine May 2021

May/June 2021 • OKC Pets 23 Fitness with Jeanne and Kai 405.288.0092 Puppy Classes, Adult Obedience, Canine Fitness, Trick Training, Show Handling and much more 30217 Santa Fe Ave. Norman, OK 73072 • Reduced class sizes for social distancing • Morning and evening classes • Come train and play in a climate- controlled setting • Large fenced outdoor area Okoboji Veterinary Hospital 1020 NW 192nd St., Suite L | Edmond, OK 73012 405-513-5905 Warmer Weather May Mean Trouble for Your Pet’s Ears By Kyle T. Panter, PharmD Innovative Pharmacy Solutions W ith the weather trending toward springtime and warmer temperatures, your pet may become more suscep- tible to ear infections. Ear infections, or otitis externa as it is known to your veterinarian, are a very common condition, especially in canines. With warmer temperatures and increased humidity, bacteria and yeast begin to thrive after a long winter hiatus. Your dog’s ear canals are the perfect breeding ground for their growth be- cause it is warm, moist and dark. Other factors that contribute to ear infections include aller- gies, lop-eared breeds (i.e., Spaniels, Hounds, etc.), water-based activities, foreign bodies in the ear and diet. There are several signs that might alert you to your pet having an ear infection. These may include: excessive head shaking, recent water activity (especially in ponds or lakes), pain, tilt- ing their head, rubbing their head on the floor, a foul odor and/or discharge from the ear canal, along with redness and swelling of the ear. Oftentimes, both ears are affected. Should your pet exhibit any of these signs, you should seek an appointment with your veterinarian. Left untreated, ear infections can lead to ear drum rupture and possibly deafness. Your veterinarian will know the best course of therapy to help your pet. As a compounding pharmacist, I have been called upon many times to make a special preparation to treat such infec- tions. I am happy to help answer any questions you may have about your favorite “furson” and his or her ears. Contact me at Innovative Pharmacy Solutions at (405) 330-3619.