{"id":23,"date":"2010-11-15T01:02:29","date_gmt":"2010-11-15T08:02:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bluefairyotterhounds.com\/?p=23"},"modified":"2012-09-07T12:51:48","modified_gmt":"2012-09-07T19:51:48","slug":"ear-management","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bluefairyotterhounds.com\/?p=23","title":{"rendered":"Ear Management"},"content":{"rendered":"

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\n\"\"<\/a>It is important to keep Otterhound ears clear of moisture, dirt, burrs, foxtails, etc. I check all ears\u00a0 (all eight of them!) once a week and every time we come back from the beach or run in the fields. The ‘smell’ test is the best indication that the ears need cleaning. If there is brown stuff and\/or a musty odor, we proceed with the maintenance cleaning solution, usually once a month. If a dog has a problem and the ear contunies to be ‘funky’, reapply the solution once a day for a few days. If it still does not clear up, it’s time to contact the vet. <\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>For maintenance cleaning we use the magic purple formula: 4oz bottle of Witch Hazel (or Isopropyl Alcohol) + 1 tablespoon Boric Acid Powder and 4 drops Gentian Violet 1% Solution. Boric Acid Powder & Gentian Violet solution can be found in small\/non-chain pharmacies. All ingredients must be mixed before each use. We found that Isopropyl Alcohol tends to sting the dogs so we much prefer using Witch Hazel. Boric Acid does not mix very well, just keep shaking! Gentian Violet is purple and it stains, so be careful when mixing and\/or applying to your dog’s ears.<\/p>\n

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