How to prevent ear inflammation in dogs in summer

In the scorching summer, as owners, we are filled with joy as we watch our dogs play to their heart's content. However, the hot and humid environment in summer poses a hidden danger to the health of dogs, and ear inflammation is one of them. How can we not feel sorry when we imagine a dog scratching and shaking its ears frequently due to discomfort, even affecting daily activities? So, understanding how to prevent ear inflammation in dogs in summer is a compulsory course for every dog lover.

Dogs are prone to ear inflammation in summer due to various reasons. A high-temperature and humid environment is a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi. The ear structure of dogs is unique, with an L-shaped and relatively narrow ear canal. The interior is warm and dark, and the high temperature and humidity outside in summer make the environment inside the ear canal more conducive to microbial growth. For example, Malassezia bacteria can grow in large numbers in such an environment, causing Malassezia induced otitis externa and leading to itching and pain in dogs' ears.

The daily activities of dogs also increase the risk of ear infections. In summer, dogs often go out for activities, and there are various allergens and parasites hidden in the grass and flowers. When dogs shuttle through it, allergens such as pollen and dust may enter the ear canal, causing allergic reactions and leading to ear inflammation. Parasites such as fleas and ticks may also take the opportunity to enter the ears, bite the skin, cause skin damage, and subsequently trigger inflammation. I once met a pet owner who often took his dog to play in the park and grass during the summer. Soon after, the dog started scratching its ears frequently, and upon examination, it was found that pollen had entered the ear canal, causing inflammation.

Failure to clean the ears in a timely or improper manner can also be a cause of ear inflammation in dogs during summer. Some owners do not have the habit of regularly cleaning their dogs' ears. Over time, earwax accumulates, providing nutrients for bacteria and fungi, which can easily lead to inflammation. Some owners, although they can clean, use incorrect methods, such as vigorously wiping the inside of the ear canal with a cotton swab, which may damage the mucous membrane of the ear canal, destroy the natural defense barrier of the ear, and lay hidden dangers for inflammation.

If canine ear inflammation is not prevented and treated in a timely manner, it can bring many harms. When there is mild inflammation, dogs may feel itching in their ears and constantly scratch them with their paws, which can easily scratch the skin of their ears and cause secondary infections. As inflammation worsens and ear pain intensifies, dogs may experience symptoms such as shaking their heads and ears, and even resist touching their ears. Severe ear inflammation may also affect the hearing of dogs, causing great distress to their daily lives.

So, how to prevent ear inflammation in dogs in summer? Firstly, it is necessary to do a good job of ear cleaning. It is recommended to clean your dog's ears 1-2 times a week. Prepare pet specific ear cleaning solution and cotton balls. First, drop an appropriate amount of cleaning solution into the dog's ear canal, gently rub the base of the ear to fully dissolve earwax, and then gently wipe the external ear canal with a cotton ball. Be careful not to penetrate deep into the ear canal to avoid damaging it. During the cleaning process, the movements should be gentle. If the dog shows resistance, do not force it.

Keeping the ears dry is also crucial. After taking a bath or swimming in summer, dogs should promptly dry their ears. You can use a clean towel to gently absorb the moisture from the external auditory canal, then use a hair dryer to set the temperature to low and blow dry 15-20 centimeters away from the ear. Be careful not to burn the dog.

It is also necessary to control the dog's range of outdoor activities. Try to avoid taking your dog to places with high levels of mosquitoes and allergens, such as grass and flowers. If you want to go, you should check your dog's ears and clean up any foreign objects that may enter when you come back.

Regularly checking the ear health of dogs should not be ignored. Observe the dog's ears every day to see if there are any abnormal conditions such as redness, swelling, increased secretions, and odors. If you find that your dog frequently scratches or shakes its ears, you should check your ears in a timely manner. If there are any problems, take your dog to a pet hospital for treatment as soon as possible.

Providing dogs with nutritionally balanced food can enhance their immunity and also help prevent ear inflammation. Foods rich in vitamins A, C, E, and Omega-3 fatty acids, such as carrots, broccoli, and deep-sea fish, are beneficial for the ear health of dogs. You can add these foods to your dog's diet appropriately, or choose high-quality dog food that is nutritionally comprehensive.

Preventing ear inflammation in dogs in summer requires us to start from the small details of our daily lives. With love and patience, safeguard the ear health of dogs. Let dogs enjoy happy times in summer, stay away from the troubles of ear inflammation, and accompany us to spend more wonderful days.