Summer is officially here and it is time to take your dogs out for their morning walks, afternoon hikes, and trips to the lake or pond to play. One of the things that we want you to remember during your fun-filled days is your pet’s ears. As they spend time playing in the water this summer they are likely to get water in their ears. It is recommended to use a cotton ball to get the excess water out, this applies when you are bathing your pets as well.
When water sits in the ears it runs the risk of allowing for an infection to take hold. If your pet has begun to scratch at his/her ears or they seem to have painful ears, then it is time to see your Veterinarian. They will help to figure out what is causing your pet’s discomfort and prescribe the appropriate medication to treat the ears. Treating the ears at home may be necessary. This can be daunting, we understand, and here is our:
FIVE SIMPLE STEPS to Cleaning the ears:
Begin by having someone hold your pet so they cannot run away.
1. With one hand, lift the ear flap up and a little back towards the top of the head.
This helps to open the ear canal.
2. With the other hand fill the ear till it spills over with cleaning solution or flush.
3. Let go of the ear flap and rub the base of the ear, making a sloshing noise, for 20-30 seconds.
This helps to break up the debris and wax deep in the ear.
4. Release your pets’ heads and allow them to shake.
This part can get messy but as they shake it felt to get the ear cleaner out and also to dislodge more of the debris.
5. Remove any excess liquid from the ear with a cotton ball, being careful not to go too deep and hurt your pet’s eardrum.
That is all it takes to clean your pets’ ears! If your vet has sent you home with medication to treat the ears then the final step would be to put the medicine into the ear canal as prescribed. If you have any concerns please contact your Vet and have them demonstrate how to do this. Have an awesome summer!
Come See Us!
Utah Veterinary Hospital
161 East 30 North, American Fork UT
801-692-1563