licking ears

[lmd]

My two collies lick each other`s ears. Then they look wet, clumped and dirty. Is there a reason they do this? I take these 2 for pet therapy in nursing and retirement homes, and it is sometimes difficult to get the ears fluffy looking. And of course it is nicer for cuddles if the ears look more clean.

[Traci]

Have you tried just a simple, very diluted solution of ear cleaner? Or, a pet wipe? (wouldn't suggest this all the time, as it might interfere with the ear's natural oils), then taking a small brush and lightly "taminng" the fur around the ears?

The licking between pets is just their natural grooming process. Most all dogs and cats will lick each other's ears, either as a comfort measure/bonding or learned behavior, or instinct.

[Tambrey]

a gal on my SHE forums was just asking about what to clean a dogs ears with when they are just dirty....her vet told her, and she was sure it was a common household item, but she forgets and I do not want to steer her wrong!!

She is thinking vinegar, but I am thinking that would dry the ears out?
Would the vet have mentioned olive oil or baby oil?

I told her I would ask and get back, and decided to jump on this thread since it is about ear licking/cleaning!!

[Traci]

None of the things you mention Tambrey, are truly good for cleaning ears. Plus, the fact that some problems go undiagnosed when owners just automatically assume they can use something someone else told them to.

Ear cleaner from the vet is priced fairly well, considering what it does. My favorite is Oti-Rinse of Oti-Foam, an 8 oz bottle goes a long way (about 7.99 each).

[momPaws]

Traci- just for my info...my vet says they use something dry...what do you think that would be? It isn't a powder.

[Traci]

Not sure, Mompaws, maybe ear cleanser pads, they are not exactly dry pads, tho, they have a "lotion" in them (with a small amount of boric acid as an ingredient).

[Traci]

Forgot to mention, Oti-Rinse and Oti-Foam are I think available at pet stores, not necessarily a prescription product.

[Tambrey]

Thanks Traci...I will post over there and let her know....an oily substance was all I could think of that MIGHT be usable...but again...would not use it here....and to be honest...I don't need to...the cats and dogs keep each others ears clean...

[Traci]

No oily stuff of any kind, this can actually trap wax, dirt and debris and make it worse.