If your dog is shaking her head more than usual, she may not simply be disappointed with the new dog food or your morning's wardrobe choice. She may have an ear problem. Natural cleaning remedies, along with veterinary guidance can safely clean and sooth your baby girl's dirty, aching ears.
Witch Hazel
Sometimes referred to as natures Neosporin, witch hazel can be effective in cleansing your dog's ear while protecting it against further infection. This natural remedy, produced from the leaves and bark of the North American witch hazel shrub, encourages quicker healing of minor skin breaks and has proven anti-inflammatory properties. Under the guidance of your veterinarian, witch hazel is normally applied with a syringe or applicator bottle followed by wiping the inside of the ear with a soft clean cloth or sterile cotton ball. The inner ear is delicate, so with this and any inner- ear remedy, ask your vet to demonstrate the correct application method.
Olive Oil or Cod Liver Oil
These natural, soothing nutritional supplement oils work to safely clean out any dirt or ear wax and sooth your dogs troubled inner ear. Drops of warm olive or cod liver oil administered into her ear canal can smother pests, like ear mites, that may be troubling your little girl. A small amount of oil applied to the tip of her outer ear can prevent ear mites from reentering. As always, consult your veterinarian to determine the correct dosage and proper procedure.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Used for decades in folk medicine, apple cider vinegar has been proven to kill germs and heal naturally. When mixed with an equal amount of purified water, apple cider vinegar can effectively and safely get rid of waxy buildup that accumulates in your dog's ear while maintaining her ears normal chemical balance. Like witch hazel, this vinegar mix is gently applied as instructed by your veterinarian with a syringe or applicator bottle, followed by wiping with a soft, clean cloth or sterile cotton ball.
Tea Tree Oil
This effective germicide comes from the leaves of the tea tree, originally found off the swampy Australian coast. Tea tree oil also works to relieve the painful itch and swelling that often accompanies an inner ear bacterial infection. This particular oil supplement is readily available in different brands and strengths, so it might be wise to consult your veterinarian concerning a recommended brand and the method of safe application.
Always check with your veterinarian before changing your pet’s diet, medication, or physical activity routines. This information is not a substitute for a vet’s opinion.