How To Keep Your Dog's Ears Healthy
Posted By: Stacyh; Category: Pets; November 20, 2008
Author StacyH;
How to monitor your dog's ear health and use routine care to prevent problems.
1
Check your dog's ears regularly; especially if the dog is a long-eared breed or one known for ear infections, such as the cocker spaniel.
2
Use cotton bandages or other soft, clean cloth and gently wipe out the interior of the ear, but do not put anything down more than a half inch into the ear canal. Use this as an opportunity to check for sensitivity and excess wax and dirt.
3
Look for evidence of ear mites. Ear mites are smaller than fleas but are visible to the human eye. The presence of a lot of black dirt that turns red when dampened usually indicates ear mites. You can put a smear of dirt/wax on white paper and look for the tiny mites, also. Take your pet to a Veterinarian if you suspect ear mites. They are highly contagious between animals. Medication is required to kill the mites.
4
Make sure not to get water down into your dog's ear. Dampness can lead to infections.
5
Clear ear of excess hair down to a half inch inside the ear canal by carefully pulling out small amounts of hair in the direction of the hair growth.
Do not do this if your dog's ears are extra sensitive, red or swollen. See your Veterinarian if this is the case.
6
Keep your dog's ears clean and dry and clear of excess hair inside the ear.
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