Healthy Ears Between Grooms: What to Watch For
Ear cleaning is included in every Puppy Love Lux service. Between visits, a quick weekly look at your dog's ears can help you catch problems early.
A simple weekly ear check
Gently lift each ear flap in good light and look and smell. Healthy ears are generally clean, without a strong odor, heavy discharge or redness.
Call your veterinarian if you notice:
Redness, swelling or heat
A strong or unpleasant smell
Dark, waxy or pus-like discharge
Frequent head shaking or scratching at the ears
Your dog crying out or pulling away when the ear is touched
VCA Animal Hospitals advises that if your dog's ears are red, inflamed or painful, you should consult your veterinarian before cleaning. The American Kennel Club also recommends having your vet take a look if you see signs of infection.
Gentle at-home cleaning
The AKC suggests cleaning only the visible outer portion of the ear, using a damp cloth or a cotton ball lightly moistened with mineral oil. Never push anything deep into the ear canal.
If your veterinarian recommends an ear-cleaning solution, VCA describes these steps:
Gently hold the tip of the ear flap and lift it straight up to expose the ear.
Fill the canal with the cleaning solution. If the bottle tip touches the ear, wipe it with alcohol afterward.
Keep holding the flap up and gently massage the base of the ear for about 30 seconds.
Wipe away loosened debris from the inner flap and upper canal with a cotton ball or gauze.
Let your dog shake their head, and reward them.
VCA also notes that your veterinarian can help you decide which cleaner to use and how often your dog's ears should be cleaned. If your dog seems to be in pain during cleaning, stop and call your vet.
Dogs who need extra attention
Dogs that swim, dogs with long, hanging ears and dogs with a lot of hair around the ear opening may need more frequent checks. If your dog is prone to ear trouble, let Denise know at your next visit so she can pay extra attention.
Want ear care handled for you? Every Puppy Love Lux service includes gentle ear cleaning in the comfort of your home. Call or text 239-356-0790 to request your personal consultation.
Sources
VCA Animal Hospitals, Instructions for Ear Cleaning in Dogs
American Kennel Club, How to Groom Your Dog at Home
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