Tips For Treating Ear Infections In Dogs
If you have a dog that is constantly pawing at his or her ears or displaying signs of discomfort when his or her ears are touched, there is a good chance that your dog has an ear infection. This is likely very frustrating for your dog because it can make him or her less comfortable and have a harder time doing what he or she loves. You likely have an appointment for him or her to be taken to the vet in order to get the problem resolved, but you might have to wait for a week or so for an appointment. Here are some steps that you can take in the meantime to help ease your dog's discomfort and possibly get rid of the ear infection.
1. Check for Wounds or Ruptures
The first thing that you will need to do is check the afflicted ear for a ruptured eardrum or blood that would signify that there is some sort of open wound in your dog's ear. The reason for this is that you don't want to add a solution to any sort of wound or ruptured eardrum that your dog might have because it could cause your dog more pain. If your dog is in unbearable pain when you lightly touch his or her ear, then the eardrum is likely ruptured and you will need to see a vet immediately.
2. Create a Solution
The second thing that you will need to do is create a solution of boric acid powder, rubbing alcohol, white vinegar, and betadine. You can boric acid powder at your local pharmacy. If you can't find it, you will need to be sure that you ask someone. Combine six ounces of rubbing alcohol, a teaspoon and a half of boric acid powder, two ounces of white vinegar, and one teaspoon of betadine. Mix these together using a small utensil and then allow it to warm to room temperature if it is not already in order to increase how easy it is to put it in your dog's ear.
3. Put in the Drops
Finally, you will need to put the solution in an applicator and then apply it to your dog's ear. You can do this by opening your dog's ear with your non-dominant hand. Then, using your dominant hand, apply the entire solution with the applicator. Do this once or twice a day until your dog stops scratching at his or her ear and then once a week for a few weeks after that.
For more information, contact a clinic like Ark Veterinary Hospital.
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