Fido is shaking his head more than usual and pawing at his ears. When you lean in for a kiss, you notice a nasty smell. Chances are you're dealing with an ear infection, which can be caused by yeast or other microorganisms. According to veterinarian and writer Dennis Thomas, infections of the external ear canal are the most common problem seen by veterinarians, and most can be prevented by taking proper care of your dog's ears. While commercial preventative products are available, you can make your own yeast-fighting solution with vinegar.
-
Causes of Yeast Ear Infections in Dogs
-
Yeast grows in dark, moist and warm environments. A dog that swims or bathes frequently--particularly one with long floppy ears--will be particularly prone to these infections. Dogs can develop a yeast infection after taking antibiotics. A dog with a compromised immune system, or that has scratches or wounds to the ear, is more vulnerable to yeast growth. A yeast infection can be confirmed by a veterinarian who will take a swab of the ear and examine it under a microscope.
Why Vinegar Works
-
Yeast and other microorganisms that cause dog ear infections flourish in an alkaline (high pH) environment. Vinegar is an acidic liquid (low pH) and creates an environment that is not friendly to yeast growth.
When to Use a Vinegar Solution
-
A vinegar solution is best used as part of a yeast infection prevention strategy rather than as a cure. For dogs prone to yeast growth, apply the vinegar solution weekly during warm months and immediately after bathing or swimming. For dogs without a history of ear infections, simply administer the solution after bathing. Excessive ear cleaning can damage your dog's ears. If your dog has an active ear infection, applying a vinegar solution may sting and a vet visit is recommended.
Make Your Own Vinegar Solution
-
Never use full-strength vinegar. Instead, dilute 1 part white or apple cider vinegar with 1 part water. You can use a clean squeeze bottle to administer the solution, provided that the liquid does not pour out. A more controlled method may be to administer the solution using a syringe.
Proper Administration
-
First, trim the hair from around your dog's ears. In fact, the University of Washington College of Veterinary Medicine recommends routinely plucking the hair from your dog's ear canal to promote good air flow. Administer at least 3.5 ounces of the solution by inserting the bottle tip or syringe slightly into the ear canal. Never force it deep into the ear canal. To work the solution into the ear canal, massage the base of your dog's ear and then fold the ear down and rub it for a few seconds. Allow your dog to shake. If your dog's ears have a lot of dark, waxy buildup, soak a cotton ball in the vinegar solution and gently clean your dog's ears. Use a dry cotton ball to remove the buildup and any excess moisture. Even if your dog is exhibiting symptoms in only one ear, administer the vinegar mixture to both ears.
When to Visit a Vet
-
According to Dr. Thomas, "treatment without proper examination is strictly guessing." If your dog has recurring ear infections, this may be a sign of more serious underlying conditions--like hypothyroidism and allergies--that warrant a vet visit. If your dog has an active ear infection, she may need prescription medication only available after examination and diagnosis by a vet. Some dogs refuse to have their ears cleaned by an owner and must visit a vet for this routine procedure.
-