How to Mend Tears in Dog Ears

Dog ears can tear and begin to bleed for a number of reasons. The skin on the ears is thin and the blood vessels are very near the surface. It can be a result of something as simple yet common such as excessive scratching or getting scraped against a nail, or it can be something as extreme as a fight with another dog. In any case, it is important to treat the tear quickly to prevent an infection and keep the tear or tears from becoming permanent.

Things You'll Need

  • Cotton wool
  • Cool water
  • Sterile gauze
  • Antiseptic
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Instructions

    • 1

      Approach the dog slowly and calmly. Speak to it in a low, reassuring voice, and stroke it when you are close enough. The dog may be agitated from its wound, and it's important to keep the dog calm to protect yourself from a bite. Even if the dog is calm when you approach, you may consider having a second person restrain it and possibly use a muzzle.

    • 2

      Wipe away the blood with a cotton wool pad soaked in cool water, and place another two pads of clean cotton wool soaked in the cool water on both sides of the injured ear.

    • 3

      Fold the ear, with the cotton pads still in place, back against the dog's head, and keep them secure by wrapping the gauze around the top of the head and across the neck. This keeps the dog from shaking the pads loose.

    • 4

      Wipe the tear in the ear with a cotton wool pad soaked in the antiseptic once the bleeding stops if the wound is shorter than two inches. Keep the wound covered by cotton wool pads and in place with a gauze wrapping for another two days or until the wound seals.

    • 5

      Check for signs of infection regularly. If there is a pus-like discharge, redness or swelling around the wound, wash the area with soap and water, treat it with a disinfectant and give the ear a fresh wrapping. If the inflammation persists longer than a day without reduction, take the dog to a veterinarian.