Dog Ear problems

Ear problems most commonly come in the form of bacterial or fungal infections, mites, fleas, or foreign objects (foxtails, dirt, etc.) lodged in the ear canal. Some other common problems include hematoma of the earflap and tumors of the inner ear.

Mullein flower, Oregon grape, garlic, marshmallow, ginkgo, and yarrow are especially well suited for treating infections and parasite infestations of the ear. Mullein flower, garlic and Oregon grape are all strong antimicrobials with strong affinities toward inhibition of mites and various pathogens that may cause ear problems.

The slippery oily mucilage of marshmallow root provides soothing relief and a protective, antimicrobial barrier on inflamed tissues of the outer ear. Yarrow is especially useful for treating small hematomas of the earflap. Used externally, the oil helps strengthen exterior capillary walls, while internal doses of yarrow and ginkgo tea or tincture improve capillary circulation and internal tonicity. Witch hazel may also be effective for external treatment of earflap hematomas, as its strong astringency quickly constricts weak or inflamed blood vessels


Solutions

Combine equal amounts of the following oil infusions:

Mullein flower
Oregon grape
Garlic
Marshmallow
You can add 1020 drops of vitamin E oil to this mixture to act as a preservative and aid in skin healing. For ear mites or infections of fungal or bacterial origin, 612 drops of the oil can be applied to affected areas of the earflap or ear canal. A soft plastic dropper is best for application into the ear canal, while a piece of soft cotton, gauze, or even clean fingertips will suffice as an external applicator

How to keep the dogs healthy

An important part of helping a sick dog heal is to detoxify her body. Toxins can build up in the body, either because of chronic disease or extensive use of medications, such as corticosteroids, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antibiotics and anti-fungal drugs.

1.A brief fast lasting 12 to 24 hours can benefit most pets. Plenty of fresh, clean, filtered water should be available to your pet during this time. Do not start the fast without your veterinarian’s supervision.


2.Switching to a more natural food can benefit your dog’s long-term health. Feeding a high-quality, natural diet is one of the simplest steps you can take to minimize toxins accumulating in your dog’s body.


3.Supplements, including prebiotics (nutrients which serve as food for probiotics), probiotics (helpful bacteria and yeasts which keep the GI system healthy) and glutamine (an amino acid which serves as fuel for GI cells), can help heal a dog’s damaged gastrointestinal system.


4.Milk thistle, an herb used to detoxify and heal a damaged liver, is useful when detoxing a dog. The liver is one of the main organs of detoxification – a damaged liver allows toxins to accumulate in the dog’s body.


5.Homeopathics are often used as part of a gentle whole-body detoxification. Lymphomyosot, berberis, and nux vomica are homeopathic remedies designed to allow a gentle detoxification of the urogenital system, gastrointestinal system, and blood and lymphatic systems.

puppies

The shopping list for a new puppy can be long and expensive: food, grooming tools, crates, bedding, toys, and miscellaneous accessories, which, when added to the expense of veterinary preventive care,

But don’t panic! Use this checklist to make sure you shop wisely and save money while still having the necessary equipment and supplies on hand.

Getting a dog

Choosing the right dog who will make the perfect addition to your family takes research and reflection.

When deciding what breed is best, it’s important to look beyond physical appearance to understand what characteristics are specific to each breed.

Using the two tools below, you can compare your favorite breeds and determine which of the American Kennel Club’s 157 dog breeds might suit you best.