How to Wrap Cropped Ears

Ear cropping is a standard procedure for a number of dog breeds. Cropping is a procedure performed by a veterinarian where a portion of the hanging ear flap is trimmed away, resulting in a short, upright ear. Cropping was originally performed as a safeguard to prevent dogs or other animals from being able to bite the ears of working dogs, although it is now mainly performed as a cosmetic procedure. Wrapping cropped ears is necessary to protect them as they heal and produce a firm, erect ear.

Things You'll Need

  • 1/2-inch backer rod
  • Small scissors
  • Medical tape
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Instructions

    • 1

      Cut two strips of backer rod approximately 1 inch longer than the ear. Backer rod is a firm foam roll that you can purchase at any home improvement store.

    • 2

      Wrap each rod in medical tape, spiraling the tape down the length of the rod. When you reach the end, twist the end of the tape and wrap back up each rod, sticky side out. The sticky side of the tape will cling to the ear and hold the rod in place.

    • 3

      Insert the rod into the ear, pressing it firmly down into the cup of the ear. Pull the ear flap around the rod and press it against the rod from the tip, working your way down to the base.

    • 4

      Tear off a small strip of tape and wrap it around the ear and rod, completely encircling the ear. The tape needs to be secure but not so tight as to cut off blood flow.

    • 5

      Place a longer strip of tape around the ear at the fold. Hold the fold against the rod with your fingers and wrap firmly.

    • 6

      Continue wrapping back up toward the tip until you have completely enclosed the entire ear. Hold the ear in your hand and squeeze gently to make sure the ear stays stuck to the rod.

    • 7

      Hold the ear upright and wrap one last piece of tape around the entire base of the ear. This final wrapping helps the ear stay upright and helps strengthen the muscles at the base of the ear.