What if your dog has water in its ears, what should you do? - briefly
If your dog has water in its ears, it is crucial to act promptly but carefully. Gently tilt your dog's head to the side and use a towel or cotton ball to absorb any visible moisture from the outer ear canal, avoiding inserting anything into the ear canal itself.
What if your dog has water in its ears, what should you do? - in detail
If your dog has water in its ears, prompt action is essential to prevent potential complications such as ear infections or hearing loss. Here's a step-by-step guide on what you should do:
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Assess the Situation: Determine if the water is simply sitting in the outer ear canal or if it has made its way deeper into the ear. If your dog appears uncomfortable, shaking its head, or pawing at its ears, it's a sign that water might have entered the inner ear.
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Dry the Outer Ear: Use a soft cloth or towel to gently pat the outer part of your dog's ear. Avoid rubbing vigorously as this could push the water further into the ear canal. Be sure to dry the area thoroughly, including any folds or crevices where water might be trapped.
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Tilt the Head: Gently tilt your dog's head to one side so that gravity can help drain the water out of the ear canal. Hold this position for a few minutes until you see the water dripping out. You may need to switch sides if the water is in both ears.
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Use a Hair Dryer: Set the hair dryer to the lowest heat setting and gently direct the warm air into your dog's ear canal from a safe distance, about 12-18 inches away. Move the dryer back and forth to ensure even distribution of heat. Be cautious not to overheat the ear, as this could cause discomfort or burns.
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Apply Ear Drops: If your dog's ears remain wet or you suspect that water has reached the inner ear, consult a veterinarian. They might prescribe an ear cleaning solution or drops specifically designed to dry out and prevent infections. Always follow the vet's instructions for administering any medications.
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Monitor Your Dog: Keep an eye on your dog over the next few days to ensure that no infections develop. If you notice any signs of redness, swelling, discharge, or persistent head tilting, contact your veterinarian immediately.
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Prevent Future Incidents: To avoid this situation in the future, try to keep your dog away from water sources during activities like swimming or bathing. If your dog is prone to ear infections, consider using earplugs designed for dogs to protect their ears while they're in the water.
By following these steps, you can help ensure that any water in your dog's ears is removed safely and effectively, thereby preventing potential health issues.