Ear infections in dogs can be very painful and cause a normally docile dog to become aggressive due to the pain. Ear infections can be external and confined to the outer ear or may progress downward and result in an inner ear infection. Treating a dog's ear infection can be accomplished by using antibiotics, ear cream and ear drops, depending on the type of ear infection and the cause. The cream or drops may also contain a topical antibiotic as well as steroids to reduce inflammation.
Things You'll Need
- Vet appointment
- Prescription
Instructions
Visit your veterinarian to determine the cause and type of ear infection. Ear infections are treated in many ways depending on the type. Some ear infections are caused by yeast and using an antibiotic would not be the correct course of action. Other ear infections require both oral antibiotics and ear drops. Proper diagnosis and dosage of antibiotic are important.
Obtain a prescription from the veterinarian. In many cases the vet will have the medication needed available at the clinic. In this case you can purchase the medication before leaving the clinic. Ask the vet if the prescription can be filled at your local pharmacy or if the medication must be ordered from a pet pharmacy. If you need to order online, ask you vet for recommended websites.
Take the prescription to your local pharmacy if the antibiotic can be filled there. Most oral antibiotics used on pets are the same antibiotics you use.
Visit the website your vet recommended to order the medications required. If your dog can wait until the next day to begin the medications, you can order all of the medications online. Most stores will offer overnight delivery. Provide the store with your vet's name and number so the prescriptions can be verified or fax the prescription to them, whichever is the preferred method. Provide your credit card information or payment and wait for the medications to arrive. Treat the dog as directed by your vet.