Let’s Dig In
Anyone who has owned a dog will know that their ears are not just for hearing—they are also an important tool for communication and balance. Unfortunately, dogs are also prone to ear infections, which can be caused by a variety of factors, one of which is water. When water gets in your dog’s ear and is left untreated, this can lead to painful ear infections, which can be tough to treat. In this blog post, we’ll go over what to do if your dog has water in their ear, and how to prevent it from happening in the first place.
What to Do If Your Dog has Water in Their Ear
If you suspect that your dog has water in their ear, the first thing you should do is gently dry their ear with a clean towel or cotton ball. Avoid using q-tips or anything that could push the water further into their ear. If your dog still seems uncomfortable or is showing signs of an ear infection, such as shaking their head, scratching at their ear, or producing an unpleasant smell, it’s time to consult your veterinarian.
How You Can Prevent Water from Getting in Your Dog’s Ear
Preventing water from getting in your dog’s ear is better than having to deal with the consequences of an ear infection. Here are some tips to help you prevent water from entering your dog’s ear:
Keep Your Dog’s Ears Dry
Use a clean towel to clean your dog’s ears after they have been in water, particularly if they have long ears. Make sure to get any water droplets out of the ear.
Use Ear Plugs
If your dog loves swimming and water play, consider getting ear plugs to keep water from entering their ears.
Avoid Forceful Water Pressure
When cleaning your dog, make sure to avoid forceful water pressure near their ears. This could cause water to enter and lead to an ear infection.
Regular Cleaning
An excellent way to prevent water from entering your dog’s ear is to keep their ears clean. Ask your veterinarian for ear cleaning solutions and start cleaning your dogs’ ears frequently.
Common Causes of Ear Infections due to Water
Water is not inherently a problem for dogs’ ears. However, there are several common causes of ear infections due to water, which include:
Swimmer’s Ear
This is an infection caused by water that sits in the ears and creates a safe environment for bacteria to grow. Swimmer’s ear is common in dogs that love swimming.
Bath Time
Dogs who get water in their ears during bath-time are also prone to developing ear infections.
High Humidity
If you live in a humid area, your dog may be more susceptible to ear infections caused by dampness.
Warning Signs of a Potential Ear Infection
Knowing the warning signs of a potential ear infection is crucial for pet owners. Here are some of the signs that your dog could be suffering from an ear infection:
- Ear discharge
- Swollen or red ears
- Strong odor coming from the ear
- Scratching or pawing at the ear
- Head shaking or tilting
To Wrap Things Up
While water in your dog’s ear might seem like a minor issue, leaving it unattended can cause severe ear infections. By regularly cleaning their ears, drying them off carefully after swimming or bathing, and preventing forceful water pressure, you can significantly reduce the risk of your dog developing an ear infection. If you notice any warning signs of an ear infection, consult your veterinarian to get the proper treatment. Let’s keep man’s best friend’s ears healthy and happy!
