How to Dry Dog's Ears After Swimming
Many veterinarians are frank in identifying "rears and ears" as the bulk of their practices. These two parts of pets' bodies are among the most common reasons pet owners' take their dogs and cats to the doctor. However, taking certain precautions, such as ensuring your dog's ears are clean and dry after a swim or bath, may mean fewer visits to the vet, less stress and discomfort for your dog and more money in your pocket.
Instructions
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Visually examine your dog's ears. The skin inside should be light pink in color, though you may notice some yellow-brown specks of wax.
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2
Wipe away any soil or water, using a clean cloth or towel, from the outside of the ear and the ear flap.
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3
Wipe inside the ear with a cotton ball to remove any water.
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Flush the dog's ear canals with the ear-cleaning solution.
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Massage the base of your dog's ears to move the solution around the ear folds.
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Allow the dog to shake his head. Then swab inside the ear with a cotton ball to remove any cleaning solution that remains.
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7
Turn your dog's ears inside out, if he has floppy ears, for 15 to 20 minutes to allow them to dry.
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Tips & Warnings
Ear-cleaning solutions are available from your veterinarian or at most pet stores. These products are designed to dry the dog's ear canal and change acidity level in the ear canal to prevent bacteria from remaining there.
You can make a home ear cleaner by mixing white vinegar with water in a 50:50 solution.
Cleaning and drying your dog's ears may be easier if you work with a friend. One person can hold the dog while the other does the cleaning.
If you are working alone, it is often easiest to sit next to the dog on the floor and place the dog's head in your lap.
Do not push the cotton ball deep into the ear and do not use cotton swabs. Only clean ear areas where the cotton ball will go without pushing.
If there is a heavy build-up of wax within your dog's ears this is abnormal and you should take your pet to a veterinarian for a more thorough exam and a definite diagnosis of the condition.
If you note any unpleasant odor coming from your dog's ears, this is a sign of infection and your dog should see a vet as soon as possible.
