Part of responsible animal care involves being able to identify illnesses and injuries in your dog. Hematomas are common canine issues and can cause quite a bit of discomfort for your furry friend. Knowing the signs and symptoms ensures you can schedule a vet visit as soon as possible to keep your pet healthy. Here's a guide to the condition, so you know what to expect.

What Are Hematomas?

Hematomas are subdermal blisters caused by burst blood vessels under the skin. While they most often occur in the ear, they can also form on many other body parts, including internal organs. 

When they form in the ears, infections or mites are usually to blame. Dogs will incessantly shake their heads or scratch their ears when they're irritated, which causes the blood vessels to break. Skin allergies can also lead to excessive scratching, which results in hematomas forming on different parts of the body. 

What Are the Symptoms?

Ear hematomas often cause inflammation in your pet's ear flap, which makes it extremely sensitive. As a result, your dog might shy away from being touched in that area. They may continue to shake their heads and scratch their ears due to the discomfort, which worsens swelling. Inflammation also results when hematomas form on other areas of the body, and swollen areas often look red or discolored. 

How Are They Treated?

A veterinarian can lance and drain the hematoma to reduce swelling and discomfort. Because they sometimes recur after the initial treatment, it may be necessary to place a drain in the area on a temporary basis to prevent further inflammation. Vets can also perform surgery, which entails draining excess blood and using stitches to prevent the accumulation of more fluid. If the ear is affected, your pet must wear bandages and a medical collar until fully healed. 

Ear infections and mites must also be treated to prevent itching. This usually involves medication, which must be administered according to your vet's instructions. If your pet has skin allergies, testing at an animal care facility can help pinpoint the trigger. From there, you should ensure your dog does not come in contact with the irritant in the future. 

If you notice signs of hematomas in your dog, turn to the professionals at Animal Care Center in Elk Grove, CA. This knowledgeable team treats every single furry patient like a member of their own family. Along with treating injuries and medical conditions, they also provide wellness visits and immunizations. They even offer grooming services to keep your pet looking their best. Visit them online for the full listing of animal care services. You can also schedule an appointment by calling (916) 686-7393 today.