This is how you can maintain your dog's ear health
What's the story
Caring for your dog's ears is an integral part of keeping them healthy and happy.
Regular ear care prevents infections, discomfort, and various other problems that may come up from negligence.
By adding a few simple practices to your routine, you can keep your pup's ears clean and healthy.
Here are some practical tips on maintaining your dog's ear hygiene effectively.
Check ears
Regular ear inspections
Regularly inspecting your dog's ears is essential in identifying any potential problems early on.
Look for signs of redness, swelling, or unusual discharge that might indicate an infection or irritation.
A quick check once a week can help you catch any issues before they get serious.
If you notice anything unusual during these inspections, consult with a veterinarian promptly.
Clean ears
Gentle cleaning techniques
Cleaning your dog's ears has to be done gently to avoid harming them or causing any discomfort.
Take a vet-recommended ear cleaner and apply it on a cotton ball or soft cloth.
Wipe the visible part of the ear gently without putting anything inside the ear canal itself.
This removes dirt and wax buildup, and prevents infections.
Watch allergies
Monitor for allergies
Allergies can often show in dogs through their ears and lead to itching and irritation.
Watch out for excessive scratching around the ears or head-shaking, as these could be some signs of allergies.
Identifying allergens early on helps you manage them effectively with dietary changes or medications, as advised by a veterinarian.
Groom ears
Maintain proper grooming
Keeping the hair around your dog's ears trimmed can prevent dirt from accumulating and improve air circulation in the ear canal.
For breeds with long hair around their ears, regular grooming is a must to prevent matting, which could trap moisture causing infections.
Consult with a professional groomer if you're unsure of trimming techniques for your dog's breed.
Dry ears
Avoid moisture buildup
Moisture in the ears makes a perfect breeding ground for bacteria, which could lead to infections with time if not treated properly.
After swimming, bathing or any such activity, dry out the excess water with a towel. Gently pat down till completely dry, ensuring no moisture remains inside.
Preventing bacterial growth altogether, keeping those furry friends happy and healthy, always!