Epidemiological studies on otitis externa in dogs

Abstract

The aim of the present epidemiological study was to investigate the occurrence of otitis externa in dogs in Jabalpur. A total of 651 dogs with visible signs of dermatological disorders were suspected of otitis externa and screened. Among these 92 dogs were found positive for otitis externa resulting in an overall occurrence of 14.13 percent. Highest occurrence was recorded in dogs of 3-6 years of age. Breed wise occurrence was highest in Labrador Retrievers and gender wise occurrence was higher in males as compared to the females. The highest no. of cases were recorded during the monsoon season (July and August). The percent occurrence of bilateral and unilateral otitis externa was 61.04 and 38.06, respectively. Various clinical signs associated with otitis externa were pruritis, erythema, pain, ear exudates, head shaking, malodour, swelling, head tilt, scaling/crusting and hyperpigmentation.