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Homemade Ear Wash

Alcohol (vodka works!), apple cider vinegar, and boric acid powder.  Apple cider vinegar works on yeast in the ear, the boric acid will kill mites, and the alcohol makes it dry more quickly.  In the second size liquid spice bottle, 1/2 & 1/2 alcohol and vinegar, about 1/2 to 3/4 tsp boric acid powder.  Doesn't have to be real exact.  Shake before using. 

The vinegar kills yeast- the usual culprit in red staining.  The boric acid powder kills bacteria and mites, if present.  The alcohol helps to dry, which makes it a less friendly environment for yeast.

Staining Faces

Wiping down with the mixture above helps- but be careful not to get in eyes.  You can wipe with plain apple cider vinegar in most cases.  It won't take off existing staining, but will help the new growth stay white.  Hairs in the inside corner of eyes (actually inside the lid) are fairly common and should be plucked- they pull out easily and the dogs don't mind. These are a source of irritation and make the eyes tear more, keeping the face damp and more susceptible to yeast. 

Often there is an infection that contributes to staining, in the tonsils, eyes, or sinuses.  Many vets will tell you the dog has 'clogged tear ducts' and make it sound like you need to have these ducts cleared.  Don't do it.  The duct may be clogged, but it is from yeast or infection.  Clearing up the infection clears the clog, and manually clearing the clog does nothing as it almost immediately re-clogs.  Treat the problem at the root.  These infections (even yeast) clear up with Tetracycline.  WAIT UNTIL THE TEETH ARE ALL IN, as Tetracycline discolors teeth and curves the roots on new teeth.  Then administer Tetracycline, and combine with vinegar wipe-downs. 

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Last modified: 08/11/08