DEAR PET TALK: Do you have any idea how to get ear drops into a dog? I have been bit twice and he shows his teeth. He is an eight year old chihuahua – Chi Mom
DEAR CHI MOM: Ouch! Medicating our pets is necessary – but seldom easy. And little dogs are often quicker to react to an unfamiliar touch or sensation than larger breeds. You didn’t say why the drops are necessary – whether for a bacterial or yeast overgrowth, which may need ongoing treatment. Or for mites, which are tiny parasites. In any event, it’s important that you stay calm during this process, so your dog stays calm.
One method is to simply start touching his head. Give him loving pats and then slowly touch their ears. Get them used to touching your ears – treats are very helpful at such a time. If you are able to massage their ears, this can help the process – massage is invariably required after the application of ear drops. Once you feel your dog is comfortable, quickly apply the drops and quickly massage their ears.
In my experience, it’s much easier if a family member or friend can assist in this process. We are currently giving Reggie, our therapy cat ear drops, because his ears were “crinkled” from unattended fleas and frostbite during his many months living on the street. We do this every day and my son or daughter is a great assistant, holding Reggie. If we speak, it’s always in a low, soothing voice. Because we do this once a week, he is used to the process and is really a model patient. I hope your Chi can adjust to this process – and do give your vet a call to get their support and guidance. Thanks for adopting an older pet!
Sally Cragin is the director of Be PAWSitive: Therapy Pets and Community Education. Send questions to bepawsitive01420@gmail.com
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