APPLY WITH CARE
“A spoonful of sugar” is the motto here. Try and cushion your dog’s ear medication with as much soothing and praise as possible. After all, it’s not the most comfortable experience for them.
Antibiotics and other pills are easy to hide in a liverwurst treat. But if applying liquid medication, here are a few key tips:
Vet Assistance – Before flying solo, ask your vet if they can demonstrate correct medicine application. That way, you can avoid weeks of ineffective treatment.
Grab a Partner – A helping hand can make all the difference, especially with bigger dogs. Ask a friend to hold your pup still while you administer the treatment.
Stay Clean – Most ear medicines will have a squeeze tip for easy application. However, try and keep that tip from actually touching your dog’s ear—that way, you won’t spread germs.
Rub It In – Once applied, take a few moments to massage your pet’s ear. This will ensure the treatment properly disperses throughout the whole ear area.
HOME MEDICINES
Most dog ear medicines eventually cure the cause behind pesky scratching. But during the healing stage, consider a safe over-the-counter or natural itch relief aid.
A few dog-friendly home treatments:
Calendula lotion
Apple cider vinegar (diluted)
Hydrocortisone ointment
Mullein oil
Antihistamines
Remember—unless vet-approved, do not drip these substances down the ear canal. Instead, stick to applying along the outer cartilage and skin.
Keep It Clean
Nothing strikes fear in germs like hygiene. To keep canine ear infections at bay, start with monthly ear cleaning sessions. Unless your dog has daily “mud visits,” you probably won’t need more than that. For ear cleaning novices, you’ll need to gather a few simple materials:
Scissors – For particularly furry friends, a mini pair of round-edged scissors will clear up intrusive ear hairs. You’ll need maximum visibility to give a proper and safe cleaning.
Cotton Material – Pads, wipes, or tissues will all work here. A cotton ball is strong enough to pick up debris, but gentle enough not to irritate your pet’s delicate ears. However, stay far from Q-tips. A pokey swab could potentially cause inner ear injuries.
Ear Cleaning Solution – Water won’t do the trick, here. You need an ear cleanser that can battle germs and soothe any irritation or itching. As a nontoxic solution, Vetericyn’s antimicrobial ear rinse does the job. No stinging alcohols, no harmful steroids, only fast itch relief and efficient cleaning for your dog’s ears.
Rewards – Like giving medicine, cleaning a dog’s ears requires a little extra pampering. Rewarding your dog teaches them to tolerate a less-than-comfortable situation. Treats, belly rubs, and kind words usually do the trick.
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