Ear infections are a recurring problem which causes you to take your dogs to the vet, so it is highly advisable for you as a pet owner, to take care of your Dog’s aural health.
But the question that arises here is, how often should you consider cleaning your dog’s ears at home? On one hand, Under-cleaning their ears can result in infection causing yeast and bacteria to build up in the ear, whereas on the other hand, over-cleaning their ears can cause irritation, and also remove the healthy amount of wax. This wax is needed in your dog’s ears, which actually helps lubricate them and protect the delicate inside skin of the ear canals from any kind of infection.
The time it takes for your dog’s ears to get dirty enough for a cleaning, depends on their breed, their coat, their regular activity level and even the ambient humidity. Dr Ajoy Vet Doctor from Ranchi, recommend twice a month cleaning as a thumb rule for dogs with regular ears. But dogs who get more daily activity like swimming, rolling in the dirt, etc. may need more frequent attention.
It is considered good practice to check the ears whenever you bathe your pup or after a trip outside, maybe to the dog park. Apply a little bit of any standard vet-approved cleanser to a cotton ball and then you can simply swab the outer folds of the ear.
To determine if it is time for a good ear flushing, you should lift the pinna of the ear and look inside. If you can spot dirt, debris or any excess buildup in the outer earuse a good cleanser and do a more thorough cleansing job by swabbing out the L-shaped horizontal ear canal.
Symptoms of Ear Infection
It is important to know that before you start scrubbing, make sure that your dog is not suffering from a ear infection. If you notice any of the following symptoms don’t try anything at home, and consult your vet right away:
- Bad odor from the ears
- Pus discharge or blood
- Excessive scratching, pawing or rubbing at the ears
- Violent head shaking
- Redness or swelling of the pinna or ear canal
- Sensitivity or pain whenever ears are touched
Products that can help you clean your Dog’s ears
1) VIVALDIS Tris Edta Aqueous Ear Cleansing Solution (100 ml)
This cleanser performs three different functions. It works as an antibacterial flush, as an alkalinizing solution that balances the pH level inside the ear, and as an antibiotic potentiating agent to avoid infections.
2) IntasPomisol Ear Drops
IntasPomisol Ear Drops helps fight ear infections that are fungal or bacterial in nature. The strong antimicrobial properties of these ear-drops bring immediate relief to your dog against the symptoms of ear infections like itching and irritation in the ears.