It’s easy to forget that dogs need ear care, too. But just like with humans, when it comes to your furry friend’s ears, proper hygiene and regular maintenance are essential to keeping them in good health.
Here’s what you need to know to take proper care of your dog’s ears and keep them healthy and happy.
when to call a vet for your dog’s ear infection
If you notice any of the signs of an ear infection in your dog, it’s important to take them to the vet for diagnosis and treatment.
Even if you think the issue is minor, it’s best to take your dog in for a checkup. This is because ear infections can quickly get worse if left untreated, and some infections can be caused by serious underlying conditions.
Additionally, your vet can provide you with the best treatment plan for your dog’s specific condition.
Signs of Ear Infections
One of the most common ear issues that can affect dogs is an ear infection. These are caused by bacteria, yeast and other organisms that can cause inflammation in the ear. Signs that your dog might have an ear infection include:
- • Excessive scratching of the ear area
- • Redness or swelling around the ear
- • A bad smell coming from the ear
- • Brown, yellow or bloody discharge from the ear
- • Head shaking
- • Loss of balance or hearing
If you see any of these signs, it’s important to take your dog to the vet for diagnosis and treatment.
How to Clean Your Dog’s Ears
Cleaning your dog’s ears is an important part of ear care. Depending on the breed, hair inside the ears can trap moisture and debris, leading to infection. Here’s how to clean your dog’s ears properly:
- Start by using a cotton ball or soft cloth to wipe away any dirt or debris from around the outer ear.
- Use a mild ear-cleaning solution specifically designed for dogs.
- Place a few drops of the solution into each ear and gently massage the base of the ear to help spread the solution.
- Use a cotton ball to wipe out any excess solution and any dirt or debris.
- Don’t insert any objects, such as cotton swabs, into the ear canal.
It’s important to note that cleaning your dog’s ears too often can lead to irritation and dryness, so it’s best to consult with your vet about how often you should clean your dog’s ears.
Treating and Preventing Ear Infections
If your dog is diagnosed with an ear infection, your vet will likely prescribe an antibiotic or antifungal medication to treat it.
In addition, they may suggest using a cleaning solution and/or an anti-inflammatory medication. To help prevent ear infections, keep your dog’s ears dry and clean, avoid letting water get in the ears when bathing, and consider using an ear cleaner specifically designed for dogs.
Other Dog Ear Issues and How to Prevent Them
In addition to ear infections, there are other ear issues that can affect dogs. These include allergies, foreign objects, ear mites and tumours.
To help prevent these issues, keep your dog’s ears clean, dry and free of debris, and keep an eye out for any signs of irritation or discharge.
Conclusion
Proper ear care is essential to keeping your dog healthy and happy. Make sure to keep your dog’s ears clean and dry to help prevent ear infections and other issues.
If you notice any signs of infection, take your dog to the vet right away for diagnosis and treatment. With the right care, your dog’s ears will stay healthy and problem-free.
