Dechra hopes to educate owners and support vets.

The veterinary products company Dechra has launched a set of Lifelong Ear Partnership resources for veterinary surgeons and dog owners dealing with cases of otitis externa.

After research by the company revealed that many veterinary surgeons think that there is limited owner knowledge of otitis, Dechra is hoping that these new resources will help improve owner satisfaction and support veterinary surgeons in achieving better clinical outcomes.

New communication tools, which can be used either in practice or be provided to owners to read after a consultation, include a postcard with a QR code that links to educational videos, a brochure, and an online 4D model of an ear which demonstrates the impact of different levels of otitis.

There is also a website which provides owners with information about the condition and covers topics such as clinical recommendations, treatment options, and the importance of follow up appointments.

As well as these resources to help owners, Dechra has also launched a new webinar series on ear cytology for veterinary surgeons, which includes three interactive case studies. The series covers topics including performing and interpreting cytology slides and is available as part of the Dechra Academy.

Claire Westoby, companion animal brand manager at Dechra, said: “Otitis externa in dogs is not a quick fix and to successfully treat a case several factors need to be considered.

“Most cases call for a thorough investigation of the primary causes, a correct diagnosis and treatment of potential secondary dysbiosis, handling of perpetuating factors and constructing a long-term plan that ensures owner compliance and reduces the risk of recurrent problems.

“Our extensive new range of Lifelong Ear Partnership resources will ensure that vets can refresh their knowledge on otitis externa and educate clients on all aspects of the condition within a limited consult time.”

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