Dog ear infections are frustrating, smelly, and painful—and often keep coming back. This episode is part of the HEAR NOW series (Help, Educate, Assess, Regulate), created in partnership with Merck Animal Health. In this two-part series, expert guest Dr. Christine McKinney, Merck Animal Health Small Animal Dermatology Specialist, joins to answer the most frequently asked questions about dog ear infections to give pet owners the clear, evidence-based information they need. 

In Part 2 of our HEAR NOW series, we explain what brown discharge really means, why infections may not go away, the risks of untreated infections, and why home remedies can do more harm than good. Learn safe, effective treatments to help your pet.

• Brown discharge can be normal wax, yeast, or bacteria—cytology is the only way to know.

• Infections that don’t clear may need longer treatment, stronger antiinflammatory medications, or better control of the primary disease like allergies.

• Inflammation drives infection—managing allergies reduces recurrence.

• Untreated infections can spread to the middle or inner ear, causing permanent damage.

• Home remedies like vinegar may burn inflamed ears and risk hearing loss.

Resources & Links:

• Episode page with pictures and video: HEAR Now: FAQs about Ear Infections in Dogs Part 2

• Find a veterinary dermatologist near you: Specialist Search Here

• Veterinary Skin and Ear (Los Angeles): Schedule Your Consult

Our vision is for Your Vet Wants You to Know to be a resource for veterinarians to improve client communication by introducing a discussion about a common topic during the vet visit, then directing the client to a reliable source of engaging, understandable, and accessible information.  

By doing so, we strive for: 1) increased pet health literacy among pet owners,   2) improved partnership between clients and the veterinary team,   3) improved medical outcomes for pets, and   4) improved quality of life and efficiency for veterinarians.  

Help support our mission through BUY ME A COFFEE: https://buymeacoffee.com/yourvet

Connect with Your Vet! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourvetwantsyoutoknow

Mometamax Single™ (gentamicin, posaconazole, and mometasone furoate otic suspension)  - IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION: Mometamax SingleTM is for otic use in dogs only. Do not use in cats. Mometamax Single should be administered by veterinary personnel. Do not use in dogs with known tympanic membrane perforation. The integrity of the tympanic membrane should be confirmed before administering the product. Reevaluate the dog if hearing loss or signs of vestibular dysfunction are observed during treatment. Do not use in dogs with known or suspected hypersensitivity to gentamicin, posaconazole, or mometasone furoate. Avoid contact with eyes. For complete instructions and safety information, refer to the product label.

Always talk with your veterinarian about whether this option is right for your pet.

In this critical update, Dr. Mandy Sorensen, communications specialist with the American Association of Food Safety and Public Health Veterinarians (AAFSPHV) discuss three rapidly evolving One Health concerns:

• A massive surge of H5N1 avian influenza, now affecting more than 6 million birds in the past month, with potential impacts on food security, wildlife biodiversity, and companion animals.

• The continued northward movement of New World Screwworm, now just 70 miles from the U.S. border — with both livestock and human cases reported in Mexico. New treatments and prevention may be available and farmers should talk with their veterinarians. 

• The new CDC “shared decision-making” vaccine policy, which could unintentionally limit access to COVID and other immunizations.

The episode also highlights new findings on H5N1 survival in raw milk cheese, recent feline cases linked to raw pet food, and innovative One Health approaches to rescue rehabilitation, including the touching “Paws for Life” prison dog training program.

Sign up for our newsletter here: https://www.yourvetwantsyoutoknow.com/newsletter

Help support our mission through BUY ME A COFFEE: https://buymeacoffee.com/yourvet

Our vision is for Your Vet Wants You to Know to be a resource for veterinarians to improve client communication by introducing a discussion about a common topic during the vet visit, then directing the client to a reliable source of engaging, understandable, and accessible information.  

By doing so, we strive for: 1) increased pet health literacy among pet owners,   2) improved partnership between clients and the veterinary team,   3) improved medical outcomes for pets, and   4) improved quality of life and efficiency for veterinarians.  

Connect with Your Vet! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourvetwantsyoutoknow

Ear infections are one of the most common and frustrating reasons pet owners bring their dogs to the veterinarian. They’re painful, smelly, and confusing. When the ear infection keeps coming back, it can feel like you’ll never get ahead of them.

This episode is part of the HEAR NOW series (Help, Educate, Assess, Regulate), created in partnership with Merck Animal Health. In this two-part series, expert guest Dr. Christine McKinney, Merck Animal Health Small Animal Dermatology Specialist, joins to answer the most frequently asked questions about dog ear infections to give pet owners the clear, evidence-based information they need.

• Ear infections are almost always secondary to primary disease, most often allergies.

• Floppy ears and swimming don’t cause infections alone, but they can make them worse.

• Food allergies are less common than many people think, but worth investigating properly.

• Cleaning helps, but it’s not enough on its own—over-cleaning can even harm.

• Partnership with your vet is the most important tool in breaking the cycle.

Resources & Links:

• Episode page with pictures and video: HEAR Now: FAQs about Ear Infections in Dogs Part 1

• Find a veterinary dermatologist near you: Specialist Search Here

• Veterinary Skin and Ear (Los Angeles): Schedule Your Consult

Our vision is for Your Vet Wants You to Know to be a resource for veterinarians to improve client communication by introducing a discussion about a common topic during the vet visit, then directing the client to a reliable source of engaging, understandable, and accessible information.  

By doing so, we strive for: 1) increased pet health literacy among pet owners,   2) improved partnership between clients and the veterinary team,   3) improved medical outcomes for pets, and   4) improved quality of life and efficiency for veterinarians.  

Help support our mission through BUY ME A COFFEE: https://buymeacoffee.com/yourvet

Connect with Your Vet! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourvetwantsyoutoknow

Mometamax Single™ (gentamicin, posaconazole, and mometasone furoate otic suspension)  - IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION: Mometamax SingleTM is for otic use in dogs only. Do not use in cats. Mometamax Single should be administered by veterinary personnel. Do not use in dogs with known tympanic membrane perforation. The integrity of the tympanic membrane should be confirmed before administering the product. Reevaluate the dog if hearing loss or signs of vestibular dysfunction are observed during treatment. Do not use in dogs with known or suspected hypersensitivity to gentamicin, posaconazole, or mometasone furoate. Avoid contact with eyes. For complete instructions and safety information, refer to the product label.

Always talk with your veterinarian about whether this option is right for your pet.

In this episode of Your Vet Wants You to Know: One Health Heroes, Dr. Brittany Lancellotti welcomes back Dr. Mandy Sorensen, communications specialist with the American Association of Food Safety and Public Health Veterinarians (AAFSPHV) to discuss urgent updates on screwworm, the ongoing avian influenza (H5N1) outbreaks, food safety risks with raw pet diets, and recent vaccine policy changes at the federal level.

This conversation highlights why veterinarians, healthcare providers, and pet owners must stay vigilant and informed as these One Health challenges evolve.

• Screwworm approaching the U.S. border: Detected just 70 miles south of the U.S.–Mexico border, raising concerns for livestock, wildlife, and even companion animals.

• Avian influenza cases rising: Nearly 600,000 birds affected in the last 30 days, with confirmed infections in poultry and dairy cattle. Heightened vigilance is essential for both producers and pet owners.

• Mutations & reassortment risks: Every new infection is another chance for the virus to mutate. Seasonal flu vaccination in people can reduce the risk of co-infections that fuel reassortment.

• Raw food diets pose real risks: A new peer-reviewed study published in Communications Biology confirms that harmful, and often drug-resistant, bacteria were cultured only from raw diets—not from kibble. Freeze-dried products may also be raw, even if not labeled.

• Policy and vaccine updates: New members appointed to the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), raising concerns about future recommendations. Families are urged to consult trusted pediatricians and physicians directly.

• Scratching the Itch: The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) has released new One Health Guidelines to help veterinary teams apply cross-disciplinary principles in practice.

Help support our mission through BUY ME A COFFEE: https://buymeacoffee.com/yourvet

Our vision is for Your Vet Wants You to Know to be a resource for veterinarians to improve client communication by introducing a discussion about a common topic during the vet visit, then directing the client to a reliable source of engaging, understandable, and accessible information.  

By doing so, we strive for: 1) increased pet health literacy among pet owners,   2) improved partnership between clients and the veterinary team,   3) improved medical outcomes for pets, and   4) improved quality of life and efficiency for veterinarians.  

Connect with Your Vet! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourvetwantsyoutoknow

Are you struggling to figure out what’s causing your dog’s itchy skin, upset stomach, or constant scratching? In this episode, we cover the 3 most common mistakes pet owners make when trying to find dog food allergies — and what you should do instead. From grain-free diets to cutting chicken from your dog’s meals, and even relying too heavily on blood tests, we’ll break down the pros, cons, and real veterinary advice so you can finally get answers for your pup.

Resources & Links:

• Episode page with video: Top Mistakes with Food Allergies in Pets

• Find a veterinary dermatologist near you: Specialist Search Here

• Veterinary Skin and Ear (Los Angeles): Schedule Your Consult

Our vision is for Your Vet Wants You to Know to be a resource for veterinarians to improve client communication by introducing a discussion about a common topic during the vet visit, then directing the client to a reliable source of engaging, understandable, and accessible information.  

By doing so, we strive for: 1) increased pet health literacy among pet owners,   2) improved partnership between clients and the veterinary team,   3) improved medical outcomes for pets, and   4) improved quality of life and efficiency for veterinarians.   Help support our mission through BUY ME A COFFEE: https://buymeacoffee.com/yourvet

Connect with Your Vet! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourvetwantsyoutoknow

Dr. Mandy Sorensen, communications specialist for the American Association of Food Safety and Public Health Veterinarians joins to discuss the latest updates on avian influenza, raw food recalls, public health challenges, and the shifting landscape at the CDC.

1. Avian Influenza Outbreaks Continue

   • Recent confirmed cases: turkey farms in North & South Dakota and a dairy herd in Texas.

   • Poultry depopulation is still the main response; cattle recover but with significant economic loss.

2. Companion Animal Cases Linked to Raw Diets

   • A cat was euthanized after contracting avian influenza from contaminated RAWR raw pet food (voluntary recall issued).

   • Another raw food brand linked to E. coli infection in a dog and a child, leading to hemolytic uremic syndrome.

3. FDA Recall Alerts Available

   • Pet owners can sign up for FDA email alerts to track recalls of pet food, treats, and veterinary products.

4. CDC Leadership Shakeup

   • CDC Director dismissed after refusing to “rubber stamp” unscientific directives.

   • Four additional senior leaders resigned, raising concern over the integrity of U.S. public health guidance.

5. West Coast Health Alliance Formed

   • California, Oregon, Washington, and Hawaii announced the West Coast Health Alliance, pledging to ground vaccine and health policy decisions in evidence-based science.

6. Small Legal Win for Science (Scratching the Itch)

   • A recent lawsuit required the federal government to restore public health websites previously taken down, improving access to evidence-based information.

7. Get Involved & Stay Informed

   • Veterinarians are all One Health veterinarians. Stay updated with policy, research, and public health developments through AAFSPHV.

Help support our mission through BUY ME A COFFEE: https://buymeacoffee.com/yourvet

Our vision is for Your Vet Wants You to Know to be a resource for veterinarians to improve client communication by introducing a discussion about a common topic during the vet visit, then directing the client to a reliable source of engaging, understandable, and accessible information.  

By doing so, we strive for: 1) increased pet health literacy among pet owners,   2) improved partnership between clients and the veterinary team,   3) improved medical outcomes for pets, and   4) improved quality of life and efficiency for veterinarians.  

Connect with Your Vet! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourvetwantsyoutoknow

Ceruminous cystadenomatosis may sound like a rare and complicated diagnosis, but for veterinary dermatologists, these purple “blueberry-like” cysts in the ear canal are a frustratingly common challenge for breeds like Persian cats or Cocker Spaniels. While the condition is technically benign, it can cause significant pain, chronic infections, and quality-of-life issues for pets. In this episode, Dr. Brittany Lancellotti and Dr. Austin Richman explain what ceruminous cystadenomatosis is, why it happens, how allergies may play a role and how modern treatments like CO₂ laser therapy and video otoscopy can bring relief.

Resources & Links:

• Episode page with pictures and video: Ceruminous Cystadenomas

• Find a veterinary dermatologist near you: Specialist Search Here

• Veterinary Skin and Ear (Los Angeles): Schedule Your Consult

Our vision is for Your Vet Wants You to Know to be a resource for veterinarians to improve client communication by introducing a discussion about a common topic during the vet visit, then directing the client to a reliable source of engaging, understandable, and accessible information.  

By doing so, we strive for: 1) increased pet health literacy among pet owners,   2) improved partnership between clients and the veterinary team,   3) improved medical outcomes for pets, and   4) improved quality of life and efficiency for veterinarians.   Help support our mission through BUY ME A COFFEE: https://buymeacoffee.com/yourvet

Connect with Your Vet! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourvetwantsyoutoknow

In this episode of Your Vet Wants You to Know, Dr. Brittany Lancellotti is joined again by Dr. Mandy Sorenson, communications specialist with the American Association of Food Safety and Public Health Veterinarians (AAFSPHV), to discuss the latest developments affecting science, public health, and One Health initiatives.

1. Supreme Court Ruling on NIH Grants

   • A temporary emergency stay from the U.S. Supreme Court has blocked reinstatement of $800 million in canceled NIH grants, many tied to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and health equity research.

2. mRNA Vaccine Contracts Canceled

   • Following cancellation of Moderna’s avian influenza (H5N1) mRNA vaccine contract, a total of 22 mRNA vaccine development contracts have now been terminated.

3. Screwworm Threat at the U.S. Border

   • A recent travel-associated case of screwworm was reported in Maryland, while outbreaks continue spreading north from Central America.

   • USDA is scaling up surveillance with sterile fly releases, tick riders, and the Beagle Brigade.

4. Violence Against Public Health Workers

   • On August 8th, an armed individual motivated by COVID-19 vaccine misinformation opened fire at the CDC campus in Atlanta, killing Officer David Rose.

   • Hundreds of current and former HHS employees have since signed a letter condemning leadership rhetoric that undermines trust in science.

   • Former Surgeon General Dr. Jerome Adams has released a powerful statement.

5. One Health Clinic Model

   • Highlighted as this episode’s Scratching the Itch: The One Health Clinic in Seattle provides coordinated healthcare for underserved communities and their pets.

6. Get Involved & Stay Informed

   • Veterinarians are all One Health veterinarians. Stay updated with policy, research, and public health developments through AAFSPHV.

Help support our mission through BUY ME A COFFEE: https://buymeacoffee.com/yourvet

Our vision is for Your Vet Wants You to Know to be a resource for veterinarians to improve client communication by introducing a discussion about a common topic during the vet visit, then directing the client to a reliable source of engaging, understandable, and accessible information.  

By doing so, we strive for: 1) increased pet health literacy among pet owners,   2) improved partnership between clients and the veterinary team,   3) improved medical outcomes for pets, and   4) improved quality of life and efficiency for veterinarians.  

Connect with Your Vet! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourvetwantsyoutoknow

Inflammatory polyps are non-cancerous growths that can develop in the ears, throat, or middle ear of cats and dogs, most often affecting young cats and French Bulldogs. While benign, these growths can cause chronic ear infections, noisy breathing, head tilt, or even neurologic signs if left untreated. In this episode, listeners will learn how CT scans and video otoscopy performed by veterinary dermatology specialists help accurately diagnose and safely remove inflammatory polyps, why steroids are an important part of treatment, and what recovery looks like for pets.

Resources:

• 📸Episode page with blog post and images

• 🥼Schedule your consult with Veterinary Skin and Ear in Los Angeles

• 🔬 Find a Veterinary Dermatologist Near You

Our vision is for Your Vet Wants You to Know to be a resource for veterinarians to improve client communication by introducing a discussion about a common topic during the vet visit, then directing the client to a reliable source of engaging, understandable, and accessible information.  

By doing so, we strive for: 1) increased pet health literacy among pet owners,   2) improved partnership between clients and the veterinary team,   3) improved medical outcomes for pets, and   4) improved quality of life and efficiency for veterinarians.   Help support our mission through BUY ME A COFFEE: https://buymeacoffee.com/yourvet

Connect with Your Vet! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourvetwantsyoutoknow

In this episode of Your Vet Wants You to Know – One Health Heroes, Dr. Joseph Annelli, a distinguished public health veterinarian and former USDA leader, provides deep insight into the ethical foundations of public health decision-making, the risks posed by avian influenza, and the impact of recent federal policy changes on One Health preparedness. With over three decades of experience in animal health, biosecurity, and pandemic planning, Dr. Annelli offers an unflinching look at where the U.S. stands—and where it desperately needs to go.

• Ethics in One Health Decision-Making​: Effective public health policy must balance the impacts on people, animals, and the environment.
  • Learn more about the One Health approach: CDC One Health
• Avian Influenza Risks and mRNA Vaccine Preparedness​: The decision to cancel federal contracts for H5N1 mRNA vaccine production is a short-sighted move that could cripple rapid response in a pandemic scenario.
  • Background on current H5N1 status: CDC Avian Influenza Current Situation Summary
• Federal Vaccine Policy Shifts​: The recent restructuring of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) raises concerns about a more opinion-based approach instead of a scientific-based approach to vaccines.
  • Information on ACIP’s role: CDC ACIP Overview
• Workforce Reductions and Biosecurity Threats​: USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has lost 15–20% of its veterinary workforce, threatening the ability to respond to ongoing outbreaks such as H5N1, African swine fever, and screw worm.
  • Learn more about APHIS programs: USDA APHIS Veterinary Services
• Legislative Path Forward - The One Health Security Act​: Dr. Annelli urges Congress to reintroduce and pass the One Health Security Act to centralize pandemic preparedness funding and coordination.
  • Learn more about the One Heath Security Act.

Veterinary professionals can sign up to become a member of the American Association of Food Safety and Public Health Veterinarians.

Help support our mission through BUY ME A COFFEE: https://buymeacoffee.com/yourvet

Our vision is for Your Vet Wants You to Know to be a resource for veterinarians to improve client communication by introducing a discussion about a common topic during the vet visit, then directing the client to a reliable source of engaging, understandable, and accessible information.  

By doing so, we strive for: 1) increased pet health literacy among pet owners,   2) improved partnership between clients and the veterinary team,   3) improved medical outcomes for pets, and   4) improved quality of life and efficiency for veterinarians.  

Connect with Your Vet! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourvetwantsyoutoknow