What should I do if something gets stuck in my dog's ear and it shakes its head? - briefly
If you notice that your dog has something stuck in its ear and is shaking its head, remain calm and immediately contact your veterinarian for advice. Do not attempt to remove the object yourself as this could cause further damage or pain.
What should I do if something gets stuck in my dog's ear and it shakes its head? - in detail
If you notice that your dog has an object lodged in its ear and is shaking its head, it is important to act promptly and carefully to prevent further discomfort or injury. Here are the steps you should follow:
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Stay Calm: Remain calm to avoid stressing your dog further. Dogs are perceptive and can sense when their owner is anxious, which may cause them to become more agitated.
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Inspect the Ear: Gently lift your dog's ear flap and use a flashlight to examine the ear canal for any visible obstructions. Be cautious not to force the object further into the ear.
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Do Not Attempt Removal Alone: Unless you see a small, easily removable object like a blade of grass or a tiny pebble, do not try to extract it yourself. The ear canal is delicate and attempting removal without proper tools can cause injury or push the object deeper.
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Consult Your Veterinarian: Immediately contact your veterinarian for advice. They may instruct you to bring your dog in for a professional examination and removal of the foreign body. Follow their guidance closely, as they are trained to handle such situations safely.
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Prevent Further Movement: If possible, prevent your dog from shaking its head or scratching at its ear. This can be achieved by gently restraining your dog with a leash or placing a cone collar around its neck, if available. This will help minimize the risk of the object moving further into the ear canal.
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Monitor for Symptoms: While waiting to see the veterinarian, closely monitor your dog for any signs of discomfort such as whining, pawing at the ear, or a strong odor from the ear. These could indicate an infection or other complications.
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Follow-Up Care: After the object has been removed by the vet, follow their post-care instructions carefully. This may include administering medications to prevent infection or managing any pain your dog might be experiencing.
By following these steps, you can help ensure that your dog receives the appropriate care and minimizes the risk of further injury or complications from an object stuck in its ear.