Food allergies can emerge as recurring ear infections. These cases may present secondary microbial infection but do not have a primary microbial cause. The only real cure is identifying the allergen and stopping feeding it to your dog.
If you suspect that your dog has an ear infection, you may choose to consider natural remedies. If nothing has worked, there are a few options to treat your dog’s ear infection, ranging from over-the-counter ear washes to natural chemicals accessible at home. There are numerous natural substances with antifungal, antibacterial, and other therapeutic effects. Even though they are natural, some can be annoying. However, if the infection is identified early, home remedies might be an excellent alternative to expensive prescription drugs.
What is an Ear Infection in a Dog?
A dog’s ear infection is similar to a human’s in that one or more portions of the ear canal are infected and inflamed. An ear infection is diagnosed by its location: Otitis Externa, Otitis Media, and Otitis Interna. Ear infections are typically caused by bacteria or yeast.
The most common of the three ear infections is Otitis Externa, which causes inflammation in the external ear canal. Although it can become a persistent problem, it is also the easiest of the three areas to treat. Otitis externa is not usually a medical emergency, although a veterinarian should evaluate symptoms within two days.
Infections of the middle and inner ear canals, Otitis Media, and Otitis Interna are far more severe and can cause lifelong damage if left untreated. Infections of the Media and Interna can cause irreversible hearing and other adverse effects if left untreated. Thus we advise seeing a veterinarian immediately.
For ear infection cures and treatments to be effective, the ears must first be cleaned thoroughly; once all wax and debris have been removed, the treatments may reach the infection site and begin to operate.
What are the symptoms of a dog's ear infection?
Ear infections in dogs can be caused by bacteria, viruses, and parasites, among other things. As with any infection, a dog’s ear infection symptoms depend on the underlying cause. However, common indications of an ear infection in a dog include ear discharge, increased ear loudness, and pain when the ear is touched. If you see any of these symptoms in your dog, you must immediately take them to their veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment.
Natural Remedies for Ear Infections in Dogs
1. Witch Hazel
The witch hazel plant, Hamamelis virginiana, is an effective remedy for ear infections. This herb has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial characteristics, helps cure and soothe skin irritations, and is an excellent dog ear cleaning. Soak a ball of cotton in distilled witch hazel water and carefully squeeze a few drops into the ear canal. Gently massage and remove any debris with the cotton ball.
2. Apple Cider Vinegar and Water
Apple Cider Vinegar is a common household product that can help fight and prevent ear infections when organic, unprocessed, and all-natural. Stir a tiny capful of apple cider vinegar into two glasses of water. Pour a tiny amount of the mixture into the ear canal and massage the ears to treat an ear infection. Then, using a cotton ball, absorb as much as possible. Use the same solution and a cotton ball to clean the outer ear canal for preventative maintenance.
3. Coconut Oil
Coconut Oil appears to be on everyone’s agenda, from diets to medicinal ointments. Coconut oil is recognized for its antifungal and antibacterial characteristics, so if your dog is prone to ear infections, it is an excellent thing to have on hand. Similar to Apple Cider Vinegar, this substance can also be used to avoid certain conditions. Place 1-2 drops of lukewarm (not hot!) coconut oil in the ear canal for ear infections. Apply coconut oil to the outer ear using a cotton swab to avoid infections.
4. Green Tea
Green Tea is commonly regarded as one of the most valuable components for natural healing, and it is easily accessible. Green Tea can help alleviate pain and suffering, which is beneficial for dog owners who cannot visit the veterinarian. Bring water to the edge of boiling, then add a bag of organic green tea. Allow the tea to steep for five minutes before setting it aside to cool. Massage 3 to 5 drops into the ear canal of the affected ear.
What Causes Canine Ear Infections?
These are some of the most prevalent dog ear conditions.
1. Yeast Growth
Yeast is naturally present in healthy ears, but an imbalance can lead to a yeast infection. If your dog’s ears have a yeasty odor and a dark brown discharge, the cause is frequently yeast overgrowth. Yeasty ears may be itchy, but they are not typically painful.
2. Bacterial Infection
Your dog can potentially develop bacterial ear infections. A foul-smelling yellow or greenish discharge may be present.
3. Foreign Bodies
Your dog may get grass seeds or foxtails, a bug, water from swimming, dirt in her ears, or even ticks, larvae, or bee or wasp stings. You may observe her tossing her head, yet earwax might cause discomfort, bacterial overgrowth, or yeast.
4. Aural Hematoma
If your dog vigorously shakes or scratches her head, she may develop an aural hematoma. It occurs when a blood pool accumulates between the skin and cartilage of the ear flap. Most veterinarians will recommend surgery, but don’t rush! There are softer therapy choices available.
5. Ear Mite
Ear mites are a kind of mange caused by a parasite infestation. Ear mite-infested dogs will frequently shake their heads and scratch their ears. They are frequent in young puppies and highly contagious, so you should treat them as soon as possible. The “coffee-ground” discharge can typically identify mites they leave behind in the ear canal. Additionally, the outer ear may have a ruddy crust. However, an ear infection is seldom simply an ear infection. Ear infections, like other skin problems, are frequently an indication of a deeper problem.
How can I treat an ear infection in my dog at home?
Otitis externa can be readily treated with natural ear infection remedies such as mullein drops, green Tea, apple cider vinegar, and calendula. If you’re uncertain whether the type of infection your dog has for deeper ear problems (otitis media and interna), you may need to consult a veterinarian.
Will ear infections in dogs resolve on their own?
Otitis externa may proceed to otitis media, and in some instances, otitis media may move to otitis interna. Therefore, it is essential to treat ear infections before they become severe rapidly. Your dog may develop facial paralysis, deafness, or vestibular illness symptoms in extreme circumstances.
When dealing with chronic ear disorders in your dog, you will need to be patient during the healing process. Remember that your dog’s expulsion of toxins through her ears is essential for her healing process. The ears are one method for your dog’s natural healing ability eliminates contaminants. You do not wish to inhibit that process. Any drug or herb that might quickly alleviate symptoms will certainly suppress them. This pushes them further into the body, where they can eventually cause more severe problems.
The ideas above will provide you with natural methods for treating your dog’s acute and chronic ear infections.
When to Visit the Veterinary Clinic
Consult your veterinarian on treatment options if your dog is exhibiting an infection or strange behavior symptoms. The earlier it is diagnosed, the cheaper it will be to treat. Ear infections can increase over time, resulting in more difficult-to-treat illnesses and possibly irreversible hearing loss.
While some dogs are typically cured after a single treatment, others may suffer from recurrent ear infections. This is typically the result of underlying issues that are not readily apparent, such as food or pollen allergies or undetected medical conditions that affect your dog’s immune. If the infections continue to recur, it is vital that your dog sees a veterinarian as soon as possible, as they will have the tools and testing available to detect the issue.
Conclusion
Infections of the ear canal can be painful for your dog, especially if they are severe or deeply rooted. While conventional medication is typically the first line of defense, most home remedies can help prevent infections from occurring in the first place. If you suspect that your dog has an ear infection, you should still visit your veterinarian. Maintaining clean, debris-free ears for your dog is crucial for prevention and treatment. For small infections and irritations, and preventative treatment, a home cure is sufficient to provide relief for your dog.
