Cure for a Coon Hound With an Ear Infection

Coon hounds and other hound breeds receive little air circulation in their ear canals. As a result, their ears retain moisture. Also, their long and floppy ears often make contact with the ground. The dirt and moisture combined with the lack of ventilation create a perfect environment for chronic ear infections.

  1. Weekly Cleaning and Prevention

    • It is important to keep the ears of a hound clean in order to prevent chronic ear infections and to help cure a current infection. Many inexpensive ways exist to clean canine ears including doggy ear wipes and cleaning solutions, which are found in most pet stores and veterinarian offices. Clean your hound's ears at least once a week, especially if the animal spends much time outdoors.

    Bacterial and Yeast Infection Treatment

    • Bacterial and yeast infections usually require veterinarian care. A veterinarian might prescribe an ear flush solution which contains a steroid or antibiotic. The solution is usually for mild infections. A severe bacterial infection requires an oral antibiotic such as Cephalexin for two weeks or more. Mometamax ear drops are often prescribed for dogs with more severe yeast infections, especially if the infection has spread to other parts of the face.

    Home Remedies for Mild Ear Infections

    • Some owners prefer natural, holistic or home remedies to treat their hounds' ear infections. A hot compress on the outside of the inner ear helps reduce inflammation resulting from a yeast infection. A few drops of olive oil in the middle or inner ear helps soothe pain from different types of ear infections. Also, a mixture of 1 cup water and 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar given orally to the hound prevents the worsening of an ear infection. A hound's owner can administer the mixture twice a week for best results.

    Veterinarian Testing for Chronic Ear Infections

    • Hounds and other canines which get multiple ear infections a year need to be tested for underlying causes. Hypothyroidism and food allergies sometimes cause recurring infections. Fleas or ear mites also contribute to unhealthy ears and secondary ear infections. Cures for chronic ear infections can include a daily antihistamine, a month of antibiotics and flea or ear mite control. Hounds with chronic ear infections need veterinarian care instead of home or natural remedies to prevent hearing damage.