A BAER test, short for Brainstem Auditory Evoked Response, is a diagnostic procedure that evaluates the electrical activity of the brain in reaction to auditory stimuli. This test is used to check for hearing loss in canines and equines

Dr. Kelly Breese is a certified animal audiologist. She is able to assess your dog’s and horse’s hearing via brainstem auditory evoked response (BAER) testing.

Owners are now routinely asking for hearing testing for older dogs as per their attending veterinarians. This applies to pets, working dogs, litters from breeders, show dogs, and military working dogs. Currently, 80 breeds of dogs experience genetically related deafness with more canines experiencing deafness due to age and noise exposure. The American Kennel Club advises breeders to have puppies tested by means of a brainstem auditory evoked response (BAER) test and registered with the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals.

Some veterinary neurologists are capable of performing the BAER test, which is used for testing the hearing of animals, but are not specifically trained to make diagnostic judgments regarding audiological issues. This is the specific expertise of audiologists.

Dr. Kelly’s goals:

To provide the unique services of BAER testing for local fur-parents/veterinarians on-site at lower costs and lesser distance than neurologists.
To give peace of mind to owners’ concerns about their canine’s hearing as well as for certification purposes (including OFA) such as purebreds, show dogs, breeders, etc. as early as 35 days old.

Hearing tests on dogs are an important aspect of veterinary care, especially for breeds that are prone to congenital deafness or for older dogs showing signs of hearing loss. These tests help determine a dog’s hearing ability and can guide owners and veterinarians in providing the best possible care. Here’s a comprehensive overview of hearing tests for dogs:

Types of Hearing Loss in Dogs

Congenital Deafness: Some dogs are born deaf due to genetic factors. Breeds such as Dalmatians, Australian Cattle Dogs, and Bull Terriers are more susceptible to this type of hearing loss.
Acquired Deafness: This can occur due to various factors such as age, ear infections, exposure to loud noises, or certain medications.

Common Hearing Tests for Dogs

Behavioral Hearing Tests:

- Observation: Owners and veterinarians can observe a dog’s response to everyday sounds, such as clapping, calling their name, or using squeaky toys. A lack of response may indicate hearing loss.
- Startle Reflex Test: This test involves making a sudden loud noise out of the dog’s line of sight to see if the dog reacts. While useful, it’s not definitive as dogs may simply ignore the noise.
  Brainstem Auditory Evoked Response (BAER) Test: This is the most accurate method to test a dog’s hearing. It measures the electrical activity in the brain in response to sound stimuli. Small electrodes are placed on the dog’s scalp and ear, and sound is played through headphones. The brain’s response to the sound is recorded and analyzed.

Signs of Hearing Loss in Dogs

Lack of response to familiar sounds, such as calling their name or household noises.
Excessive barking or unusual vocalization.
Sleeping more deeply and being startled when touched.
Difficulty following commands.
Increased anxiety or confusion in new environments.

Importance of Early Detection

Early detection of hearing loss can significantly improve a dog’s quality of life. Regular veterinary check-ups and being vigilant about changes in behavior can help catch hearing issues early. If you suspect your dog has hearing problems, consult your veterinarian to discuss testing options for a referral to Dr. Kelly.

In summary, hearing tests for dogs, particularly the BAER test, are crucial for diagnosing hearing loss. Understanding the types of hearing loss, recognizing the signs, and knowing how to manage it can help ensure your dog leads a happy and safe life.