Ear mites are a common parasite affecting both dogs and cats. Ear mites appear as small, white dots to the naked eye, and infestation produces a dry, black discharge similar in appearance to coffee grounds. Other symptoms include irritation, scratching, increased earwax and head shaking. Because ear mite symptoms are similar to other ear diseases, such as yeast infections, a veterinarian should examine the dog to confirm the mites before treatment begins.
Things You'll Need
- Liquid dish-washing detergent
- Ear bulb
- Dropper
- Ear-mite medication
Instructions
Mix together warm water and a small amount of liquid dish-washing detergent. Use just enough detergent to slightly color the water. Fill an ear bulb and squeeze the solution into the dog's ear canal, allowing it to rinse out the debris. Repeat until the ears are clean and no more debris comes out.
Fill the ear bulb with warm, clean water and rinse the dog's ears.
Fill a dropper or ear bud with ear-mite medication, available at pet stores or from your veterinarian. Push the solution into the dog's ear canal and massage to disperse the liquid.
Apply the ear-mite medication once a day for three days, or as recommended by your veterinarian.
Wait one week and then repeat the entire process. Wait another week and repeat a third time to ensure all newly hatched ear mites are gone from your dog's ears.