Alpena Lake Life: Preventing Springtime Ear Infections

Here in Alpena, we’re lucky enough to live on the shores of majestic Lake Huron. Water-related activities abound for both humans and pets, especially during the summer. And truly, is there a better way to cool off than taking a dip in the lake’s refreshing waters? We think not. 

But the veterinary team at Switzer Veterinary Clinic also knows that swimming in the lake can come with risks. One of the most overlooked is ear infections, especially for dogs with deliciously floppy ears. What can pet parents do? We tell all below.

Why Does Swimming Increase Your Pets’ Risk of an Ear Infection?

When dogs swim in wild lakes, water can easily get trapped inside their ear canal. Dog ear canals are shaped like the letter L, which makes it challenging for any trapped moisture to drain out naturally. 

Add organic material from lake water and the warmth of spring, and you’ve got an excellent environment for yeast and bacteria to grow. 

This is why we see so many cases of swimmer’s ear in dogs during the spring and summer in Northern Michigan. Even the clearest, most beautiful water can harbor microorganisms that mess up the balance in your pup’s ears. 

Part of Lake Huron pet safety means understanding this risk and knowing how to recognize signs of a problem. 

Signs of an Ear Infection

Early detection of a dog ear infection makes treatment a whole lot easier. Keep an eye out for: 

• Head-shaking and ear-scratching, especially if it happens several times throughout the day
• Redness or swelling inside your dog’s ear
• Rank odor coming from the ear area
• Dark discharge or debris leaking out from the ear canal
• Yelping or whining when her ear is touched

If you notice these symptoms, see a Northern Michigan veterinarian right away. Untreated infections can become extremely painful for pups, and can even lead to chronic issues with the inner ear. 

You can also take a few key steps to prevent dog ear infections from happening after swimming in the first place. 

How to Prevent Post-Swim Ear Infections in Dogs 

These simple steps go a long way toward preventing dog ear infections in Alpena’s Lake Huron: 

• Dry your dog’s ears thoroughly after every swim. Use a clean, dry towel to gently wipe the outer ear. But avoid inserting any cotton swabs deep into the ear canal because this can push debris further inside. A gentle patting with a dry towel will do just fine. 
• Use a vet-approved ear cleaner. After a session in the lake, use a veterinarian-recommended drying or cleaning solution specifically designed for cleaning your dog’s ears. These products help remove trapped moisture and restore the ear’s normal pH balance.
• Keep up with routine ear checks. During the spring and summer swimming season, inspect your dog’s ears every week. Catching signs of infection early means a quicker path to recovery for Fido.

For help keeping your pup’s ears safe and healthy during a summer at the lake, reach out to our trusted veterinary team at Switzer Veterinary Clinic. Call us at (989) 356-4880 to schedule an appointment today.