TL;DR: Raw sores behind your dog's ears are typically caused by infections or allergies and require a veterinary appointment within 24-48 hours. Providing a photo of the area helps your vet assess the severity and prioritize your pet's care.
What causes raw sores and inflammation behind my dog's ears?
It can be distressing to see your pet in discomfort, especially when you notice raw, weeping, or inflamed skin behind their ears. These sores are often the result of intense scratching or head shaking caused by underlying irritation. Common culprits include ear infections (otitis), skin allergies, or ear mites. Because the skin in this area is thin and sensitive, frequent scratching can quickly lead to secondary bacterial or fungal infections that require medical intervention.
Is it an emergency if my dog has raw sores behind their ears?
- The urgency level for raw sores behind the ears is generally considered Medium.
- While usually not immediately life-threatening, these sores are very painful and can worsen rapidly without treatment.
- You should aim to schedule a veterinary appointment within 24 to 48 hours.
- An urgent care visit is highly recommended if your dog is lethargic, has a fever, or if the area shows severe swelling and pus.
How does taking a photo of the affected area help with my dog's triage?
- Allows a veterinary professional to assess the severity of the inflammation and presence of discharge remotely.
- Helps the team prioritize your pet's case based on the visible extent of the skin damage.
- Ensures the veterinary clinic is prepared to provide the most effective treatment plan as soon as you arrive.
Clinical Context (Merck Veterinary Manual)
Causes of raw sores behind a dog's ears can include primary factors such as allergies, autoimmune diseases (e.g., pemphigus), endocrine disorders, epithelialization disorders, foreign bodies, glandular disorders, immune-mediated reactions (e.g., drug reactions), fungal infections (e.g., aspergillosis), parasites, and viral infections (e.g., canine distemper). Arthropod bites, either through direct damage or hypersensitivity, can also cause dermatitis of the pinnae. Ticks, including the spinous ear tick (Otobius megnini), can cause irritation at the attachment site, leading to head shaking, head rubbing, or drooped pinnae. Treatment involves mechanical removal of ticks and environmental control.
Chapter: Dermatology, Infectious Disease
Source: The Merck Veterinary Manual, 11th Edition (Page 527)