Question:
We have two dogs. Lady is a beautiful mixed breed and about 9 years old. Little Bit is an Australian blue shepherd and turned 14 last month.
They both have had ear problems for years, in particular during the summer. Our vet says they are prone to ear yeast infections and prescribes these very expensive medications -- an ointment and an ear flush. My husband has been told that peroxide will do the same thing, thus he puts it in their ears a couple of times a week. He doesn't turn their heads to allow drainage, so it goes right through them. I think this is dangerous and could "burn" their insides. Your opinion would be appreciated.
H.T., Greenacres, FL Jan 03, 2010
Answer:
Many dogs suffer from seasonal (summer) ear problems, especially those with poorly ventilated, pendulous ears -- like the poor American cocker spaniel. Others, like poodles, have a lot of fur in their external ear canals that needs to be regularly plucked out to remove the moisture-holding fungus- and bacteria-favoring fluff. Your husband should not use hydrogen peroxide, which can damage the delicate ear-canal lining. Instead, flush weekly with 1 part organic apple cider vinegar and 1 part warm water, allowing the dogs to shake their heads (wrapped in towels or done outdoors) afterward. Dab dry with facial tissue. Otomax is a good and not too expensive veterinary ear medication; and olive oil or Wally's Ear Oil (for human use) applied once the ears are dry will help.
Giving the dogs a few drops daily of good quality fish oil like Nordic Naturals or New Chapter's Wholemega in their food will also reduce ear inflammation and facilitate healing.
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