The L-shaped design of dogs' ears means ear infections are not uncommon illnesses among canines.
Ear infections are not uncommon in dogs due to the L-shaped design of canines' ear canals. The design of the ear allows moisture and debris to easily become trapped in the ear, leading to ear infections. Scratching of the ears or a bad smell coming from the ears are the most common signs the dog's ears are infected. If your dog doesn't respond to home care within a few days, your pet should see a veterinarian before any other treatments are attempted.
Home Care
You can begin care for your dog's ear infection at home. However, if the ear infection doesn't respond to home care after a few days, your pet will need to see a veterinarian. Begin home care by cleaning the ears. Use a piece of gauze or a smooth cloth to clean the ears. A solution of equal parts vinegar, alcohol and water can be used to treat the infection. Twice a day, use a piece of gauze soaked with the solution to put some of the mixture into the ear. Massage the base of the dog's ear to get the mixture inside of it. If your dog begins to scratch his ears as if they are itching more, omit the alcohol from the mixture.
Herbs
Herbs are a frequently employed homeopathic treatment for ear infections in dogs. Commonly used herbs in treating ear infections include calendula, mullein, garlic, Oregon grape and echinacea. A mixture of 1 tsp. calendula and 1/2 tsp. of sea salt in 1 cup of distilled water is often prescribed for flushing the dog's ear a couple times a day. Echinacea is often prescribed to boost the dog's immune system.
Essential Oils
An ear wash of essential oils is often a homeopathic method prescribed for treating the dog's illness. The treatment usually includes lavender, tea tree, bergamot and chamomile in olive oil. The oils clean the ear and is antibacterial and antiviral to aid in healing.
Ear Mites
Ear mites can sometimes cause an ear infection. If that is the cause of your dog's illness, you must also treat the ear mites. To get rid of the ear mites, add 1/2 tsp. of oregano to 1/2 oz. of olive oil and let it sit for 24 hours. Strain the oil through cheesecloth and apply a half-dropper of the strained oil to the ears twice a day until the mites are gone. This may take up to three weeks because of life cycle of ear mites. You will also need to treat the ear infection caused by the mites.
Tags: days your, doesn respond, doesn respond home, home care, infections uncommon