What can I use to clean my dog’s ears when I can’t get to the vet? Thank you.
Alma, Bloomington, NM
You asked, “What can I use to clean my dog’s ears when I can’t get to the vet?” and I’m listening. I know it’s not always convenient to visit the vet for small problems. But if your pup has a serious condition, it’s still best to make the time to go. For example, if her ears are swollen, hot, crusty, painful, or have a foul odor, take her to the veterinarian. Otherwise, for routine cleaning, I have several homemade recipes for you.
First, to use these ear cleaners properly, you’ll need an eye dropper and cotton balls. To begin, fill the dropper with the liquid and put a few drops in your dog’s ears. Then, massage at the base of her ears. After a minute, let her shake her head. At that point, you can wipe down her outer ear with the cotton ball. Just don’t put the cotton ball inside her ear canal.
Now, let’s review all the options for homemade ear cleaners. For instance, the easiest is to use witch hazel. It kills mites, and it’s soothing to her skin.
The second recipe consists of one part white or apple cider vinegar to one part water. This one raises the pH balance to fend off infections.
Next, try one part hydrogen peroxide to one part water. It’s a reliable disinfectant.
Fourth, if your dog suffers from a fungal infection, try a tablespoon of olive oil with one drop of lavender essential oil. Just make sure you mix the oils well.
Finally, there’s one last recipe that’s more complicated but good at killing bacteria and fungus. It contains four tablespoons of vinegar, five drops of rubbing alcohol, five drops of povidone-iodine, and one-half teaspoon of boric acid.
If you want to learn more about cleaning your dog’s ears safely, visit this page: https://www.tipsbulletin.com/homemade-dog-ear-cleaner/
I wish all the best for you and your pup.
Joan