 |
Looking in your dog's ears
frequently is very important. Not only to keep them clean,
but you can also prevent diseases and infections. Insects,
dirt or a wax build-up can cause infection.
Does your dog's ears need cleaning?
Place the dog on his back on
your lap or on a grooming table.
Inspect them carefully.
Healthy ears are pink. If the ears are red it
could be a sign of infection or inflammation. Do
both ears look alike? Or is there something in
one ear and not the other? Some earwax is normal,
but an excessive amount or change in color is not.
Smell the ears. If you smell
a strong odor it could be a sign of infection or
other health problems.
Touch them. If your dog is
normally cooperative, but whines and pulls away,
that could also be a sign of a problem.
Ear cleaning:
Moisten a cotton ball with
an approved ear cleaner. This is available from
your local vet or pet supply store. Never use
alcohol or home remedies unless it's been
approved by your vet! Never, never use a Q-tip!
Severe damage could be done to your dogs hearing
if it's not done properly....save the Q-tip for
the vet!
Wrap the cotton ball around
your finger and insert your finger into the dog's
ear and wipe.
Work from the inside out.
You may need more than one cotton ball. Be sure
to clean all of the ear...folds, inside the ear
flap.
Set up a schedule for ear cleaning.
At least once a week...although you should check them
daily. Breeds like me require more frequent ear cleanings
because our ears are so large and heavy. Ask you vet to
show you the proper way to clean your dog's ears.
Oh No!! Signs of trouble......
If you notice any of the following,
please consult your vet immediately!
Shaking, tilting, rubbing or
scratching ears more than usual.
Hair loss around the ears....maybe
as a resullt of scratching
Excessive wax build-up in
the ear canal
Black debris that looks like
coffee grounds in the ear...this could be ear
mites
Discharge of any kind
Inflammation or redness
A bad, strong odor
Tender and sore to the touch
With regular cleaning and attention,
your dog will have great ears! My doctor says he's never
seen cleaner ears on a cocker! (But I still really hate
having my ears cleaned!)
Background made by me! Pawmade
by Samson ©
|
