{"id":216,"date":"2026-05-15T19:34:43","date_gmt":"2026-05-16T00:34:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.switzerveterinaryclinic.com\/blog\/?p=216"},"modified":"2026-05-15T19:34:43","modified_gmt":"2026-05-16T00:34:43","slug":"alpena-lake-life-preventing-springtime-ear-infections","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.switzerveterinaryclinic.com\/blog\/alpena-lake-life-preventing-springtime-ear-infections\/","title":{"rendered":"Alpena Lake Life: Preventing Springtime Ear Infections"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Here in Alpena, we\u2019re 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\u2019s refreshing waters? We think not. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

But the veterinary team at Switzer Veterinary Clinic<\/a> 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Why Does Swimming Increase Your Pets\u2019 Risk of an Ear Infection?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Add organic material from lake water and the warmth of spring, and you\u2019ve got an excellent environment for yeast and bacteria to grow. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

This is why we see so many cases of swimmer\u2019s 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\u2019s ears. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Part of Lake Huron pet safety means understanding this risk<\/a> and knowing how to recognize signs of a problem. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signs of an Ear Infection<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Early detection of a dog ear infection makes treatment a whole lot easier. Keep an eye out for: <\/p>\n\n\n\n