Why You Should Clean Your Dog’s Ears & How To Do It
|
|
“Your dog has an ear infection.”
I've uttered those words nearly every day in my practice. If you’re reading this, chances are you've heard something similar from your vet, or perhaps you want to learn how to avoid it. Either way, I aim to help pet owners understand why animals get ear infections and share tips for treatment and prevention.
In this article...
Causes of Ear Infections
Yeast and bacteria are the most common causes of ear infections. We know these microorganisms thrive in dark, moist environments, and our pets’ ears are the ideal location. While our ear canals go straight inward, a dog’s ear canal travels down and then inward. The downward portion of the ear canal, known as the vertical canal, makes it difficult for the ear to drain and can obstruct the airflow needed for drying.
Another factor for many breeds is their large ear flaps. These flaps often cover the ear canal, further preventing the needed airflow. Add to this the fact that our pets love to play outside. Running through the trails, rolling in dirt, and swimming in the lake or pool is great fun, but it also exposes them to dirt and debris. All of this combined leads to potential ear problems.
Keeping the Ears Clean
Daily rinsing or flushing to help remove debris and irritants can go a long way in improving the health of your pet’s ears–especially if they are active and outside.
- To rinse your pet’s ears, hold the ear flap vertical and slightly pull upwards, this will help open the lower portion of the ear canal and allow for better flushing.
- Slowly add a rinsing agent, like Vetericyn Plus® Antimicrobial Ear Rinse, until you fill the majority of the canal.
- Gently massage the ear to work in the solution and help loosen debris.
- Next, wipe away excess fluid and debris from the ear. Tip: Roll a cotton ball into the shape of a cigar and use it to soak up excess liquid and debris in the ear.
Please note that some dogs have excess amount of hair in the ear canal. This may need to be removed by a professional groomer or veterinarian prior to rinsing the ear. Please do not attempt to cut hair in your animal’s ear as you may cause injury.
Let Them Shake it Out
When rinsing your dog's ear, be aware that they will most likely shake their head vigorously. While this may be annoying to you — and your furniture —it is actually a good thing, as it will help remove more liquid and debris. It may be a good idea to wipe the ear one more time after your dog shakes its head.
Photo by Nikolay Tchaouchev on Unsplash
Ear Cleaning Frequency
Pets with few issues may only need their ears cleaned once a week, while those with ear problems will require daily care. Even if your pet has an ear problem that requires veterinary treatment, cleaning the ear may help the treatment work more effectively and efficiently.
Ear Care Products
Many ear cleaners are available, but there are several factors to consider when selecting a product. Some ear cleaners contain alcohol. While that may help dry the ear, it can also be very irritating and uncomfortable, especially for pets with ear problems. Some people will use peroxide to flush their pets’ ears. I do not recommend this, as Peroxide has been shown to damage healthy tissue and delay healing. Vetericyn Plus Antimicrobial Ear Rinse to keep your pet’s ears clean and bacteria-free. It’s safe, non-toxic, and won’t damage healthy tissue. Plus, it doesn’t sting or stain!
Vetericyn Triple-Action Ear Treatment is also an effective way to provide your dog with quick soothing relief for red, irritated ears or if an outer ear infection is suspected.
Causes of Ear Infections: Yeast and bacteria thrive in dogs' moist, dark ear canals, worsened by large ear flaps and outdoor activities introducing dirt and debris.
The Importance of Ear Cleaning: Regular rinsing removes debris, improving ear health, especially for active dogs. Use safe, non-irritating products like Vetericyn Plus Antimicrobial Ear Rinse.
Cleaning Process: Lift ear flap, fill canal with rinse, massage to loosen debris, wipe excess, and allow dogs to shake out remaining liquid for better cleaning.
Frequency of Care: Weekly cleaning for healthy ears; daily for problem ears to enhance treatment effectiveness and maintain ear health.
Product Caution: Avoid alcohol-based cleaners or peroxide, which can irritate or delay healing; choose non-toxic, non-stinging rinses for safe ear care.
Dr. Melinda Mayfield-Davis, DVM
Dr. "Mindy" Mayfield-Davis received her DVM from Oklahoma State University and now resides in Southeast Kansas with her husband, two children, four dogs, and six horses.
