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One of the most sensitive areas for dogs is their ears. Keeping them regularly cleaned can help prevent painful infections and keep your furry loved ones happy and comfortable. Unfortunately, dog ears don't get the attention they deserve because some owners may worry about hurting their pets. Golden Heart Boarding & Grooming in North Pole, AK specializes in providing safe yet complete ear cleaning services for dogs. Here, the dog grooming team shares tips on keeping your pet's ears free of debris.

How to Clean a Dog's Ears

Use the Right Supplies

Before getting started, gather the right cleaning supplies. Dog grooming specialists suggest including cotton balls or gauze, a pair of tweezers and an over-the-counter ear cleansing solution used by veterinarians. Use a product that does not contain alcohol or hydrogen peroxide because both products can cause ear irritation. Have a hand towel nearby for additional wipe-offs.

Inspect the Ears

dog groomingGently check each ear to determine the amount of dirt and hair present. If there is excessive hair, it will need to be removed before the cleaning starts. The tweezers are a good tool to start with. Some pet owners may be nervous about using them. Talk to a dog grooming technician about other solutions to safely remove hair inside the ear.

Begin the Cleaning Process

First, make sure your dog is comfortable by giving reassuring hugs and petting. Start by gently holding the ear flap up and pulsing a few drops of the ear cleansing product near the ear's opening. Again, with gentle movement, place the bottle's tip midway into the ear and slowly squeeze. Ensure the cleanser has penetrated by massaging the base of the dog's ear for up to a minute.
 
Give your furry friend a second or two to shake their head. In the meantime, apply a light layer of ear cleanser to the cotton ball or gauze. Gently but thoroughly wipe the entire ear canal. This step may need to be repeated if there is an excessive amount of debris. Complete the cleaning by wiping the ear with a dry towel. Pay careful attention to how your dog is responding. If they are showing signs of distress or if you notice redness or blood, immediately stop the cleaning. Consult with a veterinarian for further instruction.  

 Keeping your dog's ears cleaned can do wonders for preventing infections. However, if you're uneasy about the process, a professional dog grooming technician can offer peace of mind. Let the team at Golden Heart Boarding & Grooming be your pet's trusted friend. To schedule an appointment, call (907) 488-6866. Visit the website to learn more about the center's full suite of services.

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