Wednesday, July 2, 2008

Some Ideas for Treating Dog Ear Infections the Natural Way

Article courtesy of Pet Alive


This article is written so you have some ideas about treating dog ear infections in a more natural and alternative way as opposed to just using medications and drugs.

The dog ear canals are so structured that they form an L-shape which helps to protect the sharp hearing capabilities of the dog. This unusual shape is nature’s way of protecting the ear drum. But the shape of their ear canals is also the major reason why ear infections can be a common problem in dogs. This is mainly due to the fact that within this structure and grooves and crevices which allows moisture, ear mites, ear wax and debris to accumulate.

Excessive build up of moisture and wax can lead to severe infection of your dog’s ear, especially if there is also a prevalence of dog ear mites. Conventional medications for treating dog ear infections which include antibiotics and antifungal drugs can tend to weaken the immune system. Treating your dog’s ear infections with home remedies for ear mites, on the other hand, will attempt to focus on the underlying cause without harming other functions of the body. Get more info on Ear Dr. for dog and cat ear mites and ear infections. Here are some ideas you might like to consider:-

  • A yeast infection is indicated by an accumulation of brownish-pink wax. Dilute white acetic acid or vinegar in an equal quantity of water and pour a few drops in the dog’s ears. Massage the area mildly and then remove the loosened wax with a cotton swab. It is best not to use this remedy if there is an open sore wound in the ear. The ear wound can be irritated by the application vinegar. Instead, use mineral or almond or olive oil with Vitamin C to loosen the wax so that it can be cleaned.

  • Pau d’arco, which is an herb that comes from the inner bark of a South American tree has natural antibiotic properties and is recommended for dogs. Tincture of pau d’arco with a little bit of mineral oil can go a long way towards the removal of ear infections in your dog.

  • The adrenal glands also play an important role in containing ear infections in dogs. The function of the adrenal glands can be improved by giving a regulated dose of Vitamin C. You will need to keep a watch on the bowel movements of the dog and manage the dose so that it does not lead to diarrhoea.

  • A natural healthy homemade diet is highly recommended in order to avoid harmful effects of commercial diets which use synthetic preservatives and additives. This can assist in the elimination of toxins as well as curtail the production of wax and also support the automatic immune responses.

  • The breeds of dogs which have the long drooping ears can possibly be at a greater risk of developing ear mite infections. Tie a hand band to allow free air circulation of air in the ears, at least when the dog is indoors.



Cat ear mites are less common than dog ear mites but negligence in grooming can even cause rare conditions like cat ear mites to occur. Ear infections usually affect the outer ear and proper grooming can take care of practically all conditions. However, if your dog is still scratching ears too much then it is best to consult a specialist. Too much scratching can lead to a rupture of a blood vessel and cause a haematoma that may block the ear completely. If your dog’s head tilts constantly, he is clumsy, is walking in circles or has drooping eyes then these can be indications that an infection of the inner ear could be affecting your dog. Treating dog ear infections like these should be attended only by a veterinarian.



References:
http://www.naturalfamilyonline.com/go/index.php/419/dog-ear-infections/
http://natural-pet-care.com/natural-pet-health-blog/dogs-puppies/dog-ears
-antibiotic-cleaner/