What should be done for ear mites in a dog? - briefly
Administer a veterinary‑approved ear mite treatment, clean the canal with a prescribed solution, and repeat the regimen as directed while monitoring for improvement. Follow up with the veterinarian to confirm eradication and prevent reinfestation.
What should be done for ear mites in a dog? - in detail
Ear mite infestations in canines require prompt identification, thorough cleaning, targeted medication, and preventive measures.
The first step is confirmation of the parasite. Inspect the ear canal for dark, crusty debris resembling coffee grounds and note any intense scratching or head shaking. A veterinary otoscopic exam or microscopic slide of the debris provides definitive diagnosis.
Once confirmed, follow a three‑phase protocol:
- Cleaning – Soak a cotton ball or gauze pad in a veterinarian‑approved ear cleanser. Gently fill the canal, allow the solution to act for the time specified on the product label (usually 30–60 seconds), then massage the base of the ear to dislodge debris. Use a fresh pad to wipe out the softened material; repeat until the ear appears clear.
- Medication – Apply a topical acaricide (e.g., selamectin, milbemycin oxime, or a ivermectin‑based ear drop) as directed. Most products require a single dose, but some protocols call for a repeat application after one to two weeks to eradicate any surviving mites. Oral systemic treatments may be indicated for severe or multi‑site infestations.
- Follow‑up – Re‑examine the ears 7–10 days after the initial treatment. If debris persists or symptoms continue, repeat the cleaning and administer a second dose of the acaricide. A final check at 3–4 weeks confirms complete resolution.
Prevent recurrence by maintaining ear hygiene, avoiding exposure to infested environments, and implementing regular parasite‑preventive regimens (monthly topical or oral preventatives). Dogs with chronic ear problems may benefit from routine veterinary ear examinations to detect early signs of mite activity.
Adhering to this structured approach eliminates the parasites, alleviates discomfort, and reduces the risk of secondary bacterial or fungal infections.