How do you put ear drops in a dog's ears for an ear infection?

How do you put ear drops in a dog's ears for an ear infection? - briefly

To administer ear drops to a dog with an ear infection, first ensure that the dog is calm and comfortable. Gently pull back the ear flap to expose the ear canal, then carefully squeeze the prescribed number of drops into the ear, allowing the dog's head to remain tilted for a few seconds to facilitate absorption.

How do you put ear drops in a dog's ears for an ear infection? - in detail

To administer ear drops to a dog with an ear infection, follow these steps:

  1. Preparation:

    • Gather your supplies: ear cleaner, cotton balls or gauze pads, and the prescribed ear drops.
    • Choose a quiet, well-lit area where you can comfortably restrain your dog.

  2. Restraint:

    • For small dogs, place them on a table or stable surface. For larger dogs, have someone help you by gently but firmly holding the dog still.
    • You may need to wrap your dog in a towel for added safety and control.

  3. Cleaning:

    • Gently pull the ear flap (pinna) up and back to straighten the ear canal.
    • Using the ear cleaner, thoroughly clean the visible part of the ear canal and the ear flap. Be cautious not to go too deep into the ear canal, as this can cause discomfort or damage.
    • Use cotton balls or gauze pads soaked in ear cleaner to wipe away any dirt, debris, or discharge.

  4. Administering Ear Drops:

    • Shake the bottle of ear drops gently to ensure even distribution of the medication.
    • Hold the bottle upright and place 5-10 drops into the ear canal. The exact amount will depend on your vet's instructions.
    • Gently massage the base of the ear for about 30 seconds. This helps distribute the medication throughout the ear canal.

  5. Aftercare:

    • Allow your dog to shake its head if it wants to. This natural response helps spread the medication and remove any excess solution from the ear.
    • Offer praise and a treat to reinforce positive behavior during the process.
    • Wipe away any drops that may have dripped onto the outer part of the ear or the surrounding area with a clean, damp cloth.
    • Dispose of used cotton balls, gauze pads, and cloths safely to avoid contamination.

  6. Follow-up:

    • Continue administering the ear drops as prescribed by your veterinarian. Typically, this is 2-3 times a day for 7-14 days.
    • If the infection does not improve or worsens, contact your vet immediately.

By following these steps meticulously, you can effectively administer ear drops to treat your dog's ear infection and promote its recovery.