Many pet owners seek safe and natural remedies like witch hazel to alleviate common canine discomforts, such as ear irritation or inflammation.
This plant, known for its soothing properties, is widely used in human skincare and healthcare.
However, can u use witch hazel on dogs ears? When it comes to using it on dogs’ ears, pet parents may wonder if this natural solution is equally beneficial and safe for their furry companions.
Let’s explore its potential benefits and precautions to ensure your pet’s well-being.
Can U Use Witch Hazel On Dogs Ears?
Yes, you can use witch hazel on dogs’ ears. It offers several benefits for canine ear care, like controlling infections, cleaning the ears, soothing irritation and swelling, supporting blood flow, etc.
But you should know how to use it properly to make the most out of this plant.
Below are what your pooch can benefit from this natural remedy:
Preventing infections: Witch hazel has natural astringent properties that help cleanse the ear and remove excess moisture.
This drying effect can be particularly beneficial in preventing ear infections, especially in dogs with floppy or hairy ears, where moisture tends to accumulate.
Cleaning skin: The astringent qualities of this plant make it an effective cleaner for the skin inside the ears. It helps remove dirt, debris, and wax buildup, promoting ear hygiene.
Anti-inflammatory: Is witch hazel safe for dogs ears? Witch hazel contains anti-inflammatory compounds that reduce swelling and soothe irritated ear tissues.
It’s a blessing for dogs prone to ear discomfort due to allergies, mites, or other irritants.
Hemostatic properties: Witch hazel is a natural hemostatic agent that encourages healthy blood flow in the ears.
Improved blood circulation can aid in the healing process and maintain healthy ear tissues.
How To Use Witch Hazel On Dogs’ Ears?
Step 1: Prepare Materials
Gather the materials needed, including witch hazel extract, an empty plastic bottle, and soft, dry gauze or tissue.
Ensure that the witch hazel ear infection dog is organic and alcohol-free to prevent irritation.
Step 2: Keep Your Dog Sit
Choose a quiet, well-lit room where you and your dog can be comfortable. It’s best to speak to your dogs to keep them relaxed.
If your dog is prone to anxiety during ear cleaning, you may want a second person to help hold your dog gently but securely.
Step 3: Lift The Ear Flap
Carefully raise your dog’s ear to reveal the ear canal using one hand. Be gentle and avoid forcing it open to prevent your dog from feeling discomfort or getting hurt.
Step 4: Apply Witch Hazel
Using the plastic bottle filled with the diluted witch hazel mixture, carefully apply a small amount of the solution to the ear canal.
Next, aim the applicator bottle tip slightly upward to avoid inserting it too deeply into the ear.
Allow the solution to flow gently into the ear canal, and you will see the liquid filling the ear.
Step 5: Massage The Ear
After applying the solution, gently massage the base of your dog’s ear for about 20-30 seconds.
This massaging helps distribute the mixture inside the ear and loosen debris or wax buildup. Most dogs find this massaging sensation soothing.
Step 6: Clean With Cotton
Take a piece of soft, dry gauze or tissue to gently wipe away any remaining cleanser and loosened debris from the ear.
Be cautious not to insert the gauze or tissue deep into the ear canal, which can harm the sensitive ear structures. You should only clean the visible parts of the ear canal.
Step 7: Stand Back
After cleaning, stand back and allow your dog to shake their head naturally. This shaking action helps remove any excess moisture and cleanser from the ear.
What Are The Risks And Precautions Of Witch Hazel For Dogs?
Choosing The Right Witch Hazel
Using witch hazel intended for humans or containing isopropyl alcohol can harm dogs.
Thus, ensure you choose the one specifically designed for pets or vegetable glycerin-based.
Topical Application Frequency
Excessive application of witch hazel for dog ear infection can backfire, leading to skin dryness or irritation and potentially delaying the healing process.
Remember to follow your veterinarian’s recommendations and only use witch hazel topically on your dog’s skin several times a day.
Dry Skin Issues
Witch hazel’s drying effect can exacerbate dry skin problems if the itching is owing to dryness, not insect bites or minor wounds.
Once you suspect your dog’s itching is primarily due to dry skin, consult your vet for alternative solutions and avoid using witch hazel dog ear infection in such cases.
Ingestion Risk
Ingesting witch hazel, especially in large amounts, can lead to kidney and liver damage in dogs. It’s best to keep it out of your dog’s reach and never encourage them to ingest it.
If accidental ingestion occurs, monitor your dog for symptoms like drooling, rubbing their mouth on the ground, vomiting, or diarrhea, and seek immediate veterinary attention.
Allergic Reactions
Some dogs may be sensitive or allergic to witch hazel, leading to skin redness, burns, or irritation.
Before using it extensively on your dog’s skin, perform a patch test by applying a small amount to a small area of their skin.
Monitor for any adverse reactions, and if any appear, stop using it.
What Are Other Homemade Ear Cleaners For Dogs?
- Apple vinegar solution: Mix 1 cup of warm water with 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to correct pH levels and combat yeast or bacterial infections in your dog’s ears.
- Garlic oil: Crush a couple of garlic cloves in a cup of olive oil, let it sit overnight, then remove the garlic. Dip a cotton ball into the olive oil and apply to the dog’s ears twice daily to deal with bacteria and infections. Olive oil kills mites and keeps the dogs’ skin well-nourished.
- Green tea solution: Steep green tea in a cup of water, allow it to cool and use a cotton ball to gently massage it into your dog’s ears daily for 4 weeks. It can help with infections and mite control.
FAQs
What Are Common Signs Of Ear Infection In Dogs?
- Unusual odor: Healthy ears should not have a foul or yeasty smell. An abnormal odor can be a sign of infection.
- Redness: The inside of a dog’s ears should typically appear pink, so redness or inflammation may indicate an issue.
- Discharge: The dark brown or black discharge could be a sign of infection because normal ear wax should be pale yellowish.
- Head shaking: Frequent head shaking or squishy sound in a dog’s ear is often a response to ear discomfort, which can stem from mites or bacteria.
- Pawing at ears: Dogs may paw at their ears if they are experiencing discomfort or pain.
- Rubbing against surfaces: A dog rubbing ears against carpets or furniture can hint at irritation or itching.
- Excessive wax: An abnormal buildup of wax can block airflow and lead to outer ear canal infections.
Can I Clean My Dog’s Ears Regularly?
Yes. Cleaning your dog’s ears regularly is advisable, but it should be done in moderation.
Overdoing it can disrupt the ear’s natural bacteria balance, potentially paving the way for irritation, inflammation, and even ear infections due to excess moisture.
It’s best to consult your veterinarian for guidance.
Conclusion
Can u use witch hazel on dogs ears? Witch hazel can be used on a dog’s ears as an ear cleaner.
It can help remove dirt, debris, and excess wax while providing a mild antiseptic effect.
However, it’s essential to dilute witch hazel with water and use it sparingly.
Also, always consult with your veterinarian before using any home remedies on your dog’s ears, especially if you suspect an infection or underlying medical issue.