The comments below reflect the personal experiences and opinions of readers and do not represent medical advice or the views of this website. The information shared has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or health condition. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical concerns.
Posted by Jennifer (South Africa) on 08/24/2006 ★★★★★
My tomcat was in a fight and got his ear badly scratched. It started smelling really bad as the puss formed, and the whole scratch was filled with yellow puss. He was in a lot of pain. So to clean the ear i put very warm water in a small bowl and added quite a bit of apple cider vinegar. Then i dunked tissue paper into the water & apple cider mix and squeezed it out into his ear (i had to get another dry tissue to hold into his ear-drum so the water wouldn't run further into his ear and upset him). It cleaned it out very quickly, after a few hours the crust had gone and the puss was dispelling. I repeated this in the morning, and he actually seemed to enjoy the warmth of the water on his painful ear, so he never even flinched when i came close with the apple-cider water. it's worked for him ! It's easy on the skin, not harsh like other medication / antibiotics would be.
I used a diluted solution of water and ACV and dropped it into my dog's ears. I've had to do this occasionally for the last few years (maybe 3 times a yr.). It works every single time like a miracle. Even though I know it works, it amazes me each time. Thanks!
Apple cider vinegar mix with water versus olive oil
hello, I would like to ask why Earth Clinic recomends using water to mix with apple cider vinegar for my french bull ear infection…. won't the water feed the yeast? i've looked at several remedies now, all 6 recommended using olive oil 50/50 with the cider ( no water)…. so, I'm not writing to pester you, I'd like to know, it's possible I'm missing something but I need to nip this in the rear. Elliot ( french bill & sissy ( Beagle/pug mix have both had an ear infection for over a year, I've taken them to my vet thrice, automax is what they kept selling me but here we are a full year later & they are just as infected & raw inside, just miserable. btw, the vet I have taken them to for the last 12 years the vet is just now considering retiring he is 86 years old, he's been around the block a couple times I know at one point he was referred to being one of the best vets around. I just can't explain what's going on but I want to stop there their pain and their infection and I appreciate you taking a few minutes to read this but if water is the way to go, then I'd like to know your secret and thanks so much appreciate it advance., William in Oregon
My dog has a chronic ear infection-the alternative from the vet is to remove her ear canal. I would like to try apple cider vinegar/water but she is with Baytril eardrops. Can I start using the apple cider/water twice a day and continue using Baytril?
Hey I just did the apple cider vineger to my dogs ear and the reaction I just got wasnt very good she made her head stay on the right side thats the side that is sore. She is 12-14months old she has a bad problem with her right ear and gets irration and its like all the time I cant get into a vet and im lost on things to do please can someone help me asap pretty please
The wonderful Theresa from Minneapolis, MN has been helping pet owners and their beloved pets around the world on Earth Clinic since 2013.
About Theresa
Theresa from Minneapolis was born and raised in the inner city, always wishing she had been raised on a farm.
Her love for creatures great and small began at an early age, starting with caterpillars - which continues to this day, along with an interest in all insects and 'creepy crawlies'.
Theresa's interest in pet health started with a bird keeping hobby at age 14, where she learned from another hobbyist that the simple addition of Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) in a bird's drinking water kept fungal infections away; she was able to share this with her avian vet who in turn prescribed it to her own clients; Theresa was surprised to learn that she could teach her vet a thing or two. This important lesson - that each of us can be a teacher - was a turning point for Theresa, and fueled her quest for the knowledge held in lore, and remedies passed by word of mouth. That quest for knowledge continues to this day, as new and old remedies alike are explored. She may not have experience with a particular issue, but she will research it to the best of her ability and share what she finds freely, in the hopes that you can heal or improve your pet's health.
-----------------------------
How To Show Theresa Your Appreciation
If you would like to thank Theresa for her helpful posts, she asks if you would please consider making a donation to one of her favorite local rescue organizations, or by making a donation to help the genius contributor, Ted from Bangkok, recover from his stroke.
You might consider alkalizing your dog's drinking water, along with Ted's Borax Protocol for dogs- you can do this on a rotating basis and include plain water in the rotation. You might also consider the Arcane ear formula recipe on EC or Zymox Otic that you can purchase online.
The wonderful Theresa from Minneapolis, MN has been helping pet owners and their beloved pets around the world on Earth Clinic since 2013.
About Theresa
Theresa from Minneapolis was born and raised in the inner city, always wishing she had been raised on a farm.
Her love for creatures great and small began at an early age, starting with caterpillars - which continues to this day, along with an interest in all insects and 'creepy crawlies'.
Theresa's interest in pet health started with a bird keeping hobby at age 14, where she learned from another hobbyist that the simple addition of Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) in a bird's drinking water kept fungal infections away; she was able to share this with her avian vet who in turn prescribed it to her own clients; Theresa was surprised to learn that she could teach her vet a thing or two. This important lesson - that each of us can be a teacher - was a turning point for Theresa, and fueled her quest for the knowledge held in lore, and remedies passed by word of mouth. That quest for knowledge continues to this day, as new and old remedies alike are explored. She may not have experience with a particular issue, but she will research it to the best of her ability and share what she finds freely, in the hopes that you can heal or improve your pet's health.
-----------------------------
How To Show Theresa Your Appreciation
If you would like to thank Theresa for her helpful posts, she asks if you would please consider making a donation to one of her favorite local rescue organizations, or by making a donation to help the genius contributor, Ted from Bangkok, recover from his stroke.
I used to have super athletic breeds and we walked in the woods 5 times a week and dogs went into the river at each walk; dogs were bathed after each walk to remove any parasites and ears were cleaned with the ACV/H2O/Isopropyl dilution. I now have lap dogs who specialize in eating and taking up as much room as possible on the couch! They do as your girl does; give a shake when they wake, and it seems the ones susceptible to funky/gunky ears all seem to get it on the ear/side of the head they sleep on. I find that they get the ear discharge for a number of reasons - seasons changing, wind direction changing bringing in new allergens, spring and fall mold blooms, feeding them bad human food. I have no problem with home remedy ear formulas for cleaning healthy ears but prefer Zymox Otic Hcl 1% that I buy online/Amazon for when I see an ear that is starting to turn pink. I use a holistic vet for dosing the acidophillus - some visits we dose PB8, some DDS w/FOS, some brands are from the local co-op. Unless you have a holistic vet [or someone that can help you use applied kinesiology] to determine which probotic is indicated for your particular pet at a particular time, your best bet is to buy one brand and dose that bottle until it is used up, and then buy one with completely different strains of bacteria and use that up and then buy another with completely different strains and so on. You want to rotate with several brands and strains rather than sticking to just one and you want to change it up every 3 weeks or so, not dose the same brand forever. I do know that when the probiotics start digesting the yeast in the GI tract that toxins are produced; supplementing with milk thistle may be indicted or other organ support remedies. I do dose milk thistle when indicated for 3 weeks or so; it is not a long term/forever supplement and using health supplements on a forever basis can cause them to be ineffective/develop resistance. It always seems that once I get the ears all nice and healthy something changes - the weather, they ate the wrong food, they were traumatized emotionally by the vacuum cleaner - and that small change can tip the scales to allow the yeast to once again gain the upper hand. You are never finished with dealing with yeast - it is an ongoing thing. So get the right remedies to have on hand and when you see the ear turn pink, act immediately and do not allow it to get worse by waiting-and-seeing. I do find treating the water helps - when I see not just one but all of them starting to have itchy skin or gunky ears then we all get the baking soda water and then a course of the borax water; I drink it as well as the dogs so I can get the health benefits too.
Thank you so much for your advice. I have ordered the Zymox, I was advised by an English vet not to use a similar product as it kills off the hairs in the ear canal, but I think he meant long term regular use. May I also ask you about making garlic infused oil. I can't find an actual recipe. I read to fill up a small glass gar with garlic then top up with oil and leave for 10-14 days. I gave 10 drops in each ear, twice a day for 3 days. It has helped but I notice that her ears go red after application, she is not bothered by it but I was concerned it was a reaction or it was burning? Or could it be just the blood pumping around after the warmth of it. Can you add too much garlic to the oil? Do you know of a garlic:oil ratio please?
The wonderful Theresa from Minneapolis, MN has been helping pet owners and their beloved pets around the world on Earth Clinic since 2013.
About Theresa
Theresa from Minneapolis was born and raised in the inner city, always wishing she had been raised on a farm.
Her love for creatures great and small began at an early age, starting with caterpillars - which continues to this day, along with an interest in all insects and 'creepy crawlies'.
Theresa's interest in pet health started with a bird keeping hobby at age 14, where she learned from another hobbyist that the simple addition of Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) in a bird's drinking water kept fungal infections away; she was able to share this with her avian vet who in turn prescribed it to her own clients; Theresa was surprised to learn that she could teach her vet a thing or two. This important lesson - that each of us can be a teacher - was a turning point for Theresa, and fueled her quest for the knowledge held in lore, and remedies passed by word of mouth. That quest for knowledge continues to this day, as new and old remedies alike are explored. She may not have experience with a particular issue, but she will research it to the best of her ability and share what she finds freely, in the hopes that you can heal or improve your pet's health.
-----------------------------
How To Show Theresa Your Appreciation
If you would like to thank Theresa for her helpful posts, she asks if you would please consider making a donation to one of her favorite local rescue organizations, or by making a donation to help the genius contributor, Ted from Bangkok, recover from his stroke.
I use 1 cup of olive oil and press 2-3 good sized cloves of garlic into it and let steep overnight in the fridge. I pour off a small amount that I am going to use, and put the rest back into the fridge to continue steeping; when I run out of oil I toss the lot and make a new batch. I am not aware of a garlic:oil ratio - it sounds as if your approach with the small jar is about the same as mine with 1 cup and 3 cloves :). I make sure I warm the oil up before putting it into the ear, and I make sure it goes deep down by massaging the base of the ear until I hear it squishing around - way more than 10 drops! I think the ears flushing red is normal - blood rushing to the tissue because it is being stimulated. Once the ear begins to heal and the skin is not all scratched and open and raw I might use a water based product or home made solution to flush the gunk out. I like Eoi-otic and PhytoVET ear products that I can buy online. I have no problem using home remedies and they work great especially in a pinch, but for chronic problem ears these veterinary formulations that are now commonly available online are superior particularly in terms of pain control. If pain is not an issue, I like 1/3 cup each water, hydrogen peroxide and isopropyl OR water, white vinegar and isopropyl. When you combine vinegar and hydrogen peroxide you create paracetic acid which is very harsh on the skin, so avoid mixing those two together for use on tender ear skin.
The wonderful Theresa from Minneapolis, MN has been helping pet owners and their beloved pets around the world on Earth Clinic since 2013.
About Theresa
Theresa from Minneapolis was born and raised in the inner city, always wishing she had been raised on a farm.
Her love for creatures great and small began at an early age, starting with caterpillars - which continues to this day, along with an interest in all insects and 'creepy crawlies'.
Theresa's interest in pet health started with a bird keeping hobby at age 14, where she learned from another hobbyist that the simple addition of Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) in a bird's drinking water kept fungal infections away; she was able to share this with her avian vet who in turn prescribed it to her own clients; Theresa was surprised to learn that she could teach her vet a thing or two. This important lesson - that each of us can be a teacher - was a turning point for Theresa, and fueled her quest for the knowledge held in lore, and remedies passed by word of mouth. That quest for knowledge continues to this day, as new and old remedies alike are explored. She may not have experience with a particular issue, but she will research it to the best of her ability and share what she finds freely, in the hopes that you can heal or improve your pet's health.
-----------------------------
How To Show Theresa Your Appreciation
If you would like to thank Theresa for her helpful posts, she asks if you would please consider making a donation to one of her favorite local rescue organizations, or by making a donation to help the genius contributor, Ted from Bangkok, recover from his stroke.
Walking in circles could mean an inner ear infection - these are typically very painful and you would see other signs of discomfort such as scratching the ear raw and a smelly ear full of gunk. It could also be neurological in nature, either from genetics [as seen in Bull Terriers] or from a brain tumor. Many times animals with a neurological issue cannot tell if their feet are positioned properly; try picking your pet's foot up and folding it under and placing it down again - so the paw is facing the ceiling: your dog should be able to figure out its paw is placed wrong and re-position it so the pads is on the ground. Dogs that cannot sense their paws are not placed properly often have neurological issues.
If you cannot bring your dog to the vet, and if the ear flushing is helping I would continue flushing the ears daily if not twice a day to see if there is any improvement. If there is no improvement you may want to consider seeing a vet.
The wonderful Theresa from Minneapolis, MN has been helping pet owners and their beloved pets around the world on Earth Clinic since 2013.
About Theresa
Theresa from Minneapolis was born and raised in the inner city, always wishing she had been raised on a farm.
Her love for creatures great and small began at an early age, starting with caterpillars - which continues to this day, along with an interest in all insects and 'creepy crawlies'.
Theresa's interest in pet health started with a bird keeping hobby at age 14, where she learned from another hobbyist that the simple addition of Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) in a bird's drinking water kept fungal infections away; she was able to share this with her avian vet who in turn prescribed it to her own clients; Theresa was surprised to learn that she could teach her vet a thing or two. This important lesson - that each of us can be a teacher - was a turning point for Theresa, and fueled her quest for the knowledge held in lore, and remedies passed by word of mouth. That quest for knowledge continues to this day, as new and old remedies alike are explored. She may not have experience with a particular issue, but she will research it to the best of her ability and share what she finds freely, in the hopes that you can heal or improve your pet's health.
-----------------------------
How To Show Theresa Your Appreciation
If you would like to thank Theresa for her helpful posts, she asks if you would please consider making a donation to one of her favorite local rescue organizations, or by making a donation to help the genius contributor, Ted from Bangkok, recover from his stroke.
It sounds like the ears are sore and painful. At this stage I would NOT do the vinegar rinse as it could cause your dog pain.
If this were my dog I would either do Wendy's healthy ear recipe [will post below] that costs about $20.00 to assemble, or Ted's Antifungal/Anti-staph remedy.
Make a small batch, warm and use directly in the ears:
1-1/2 cups of 1% hydrogen peroxide
1 tbsp MOM (Milk of Magnesia)
1 tbsp Epsom salts
1 tbsp Borax
Also consider Wendy from Columbus OH ear remedy:
1 tube Monistat (generic is fine)
1 tube Polysporin (use the real deal - it's inexpensive)
1 tube Cortaid (generic works here as well)
Use tubes of similar size. Mix all three together in a container that can be closed well. It takes a bit to incorporate because the Polysporin is a bit like Vaseline. Once incorporated, it stays mixed.
If ears are gunky, inflamed or smell bad, start with using a pea sized dollop twice a day. Use your finger to gently push it into the ear. Rub. Dogs will only shake their heads once or twice! It's a creamy, very soothing mixture. Once you have the ears under control, lessen how often you use it till you're only using it once a week. Once a week, it keeps ears from getting bad again.
If your pockets are to let and you do not have the funds to the above remedies, you can crush 1 clove of garlic into half a cup of cooking oil and let steep over night, and then warm and use in the ear. Use this to clean out the ears twice a day for 3-5 days and when the ears are healed up from the scratching then proceed with the vinegar rinse.
Hi, I read your post online about the apple cider vinegar and I would love to try it on my dog. I'm a little confused of how much vinegar and water I should use, could you help me? I have a 77lbs Rottweiler.
Day 2 and second round of treatment with the Apple Cider Vinegar mix, going well. Odor almost completely gone. Still got some build up deep in the canal but it's working its way out.
The wonderful Theresa from Minneapolis, MN has been helping pet owners and their beloved pets around the world on Earth Clinic since 2013.
About Theresa
Theresa from Minneapolis was born and raised in the inner city, always wishing she had been raised on a farm.
Her love for creatures great and small began at an early age, starting with caterpillars - which continues to this day, along with an interest in all insects and 'creepy crawlies'.
Theresa's interest in pet health started with a bird keeping hobby at age 14, where she learned from another hobbyist that the simple addition of Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) in a bird's drinking water kept fungal infections away; she was able to share this with her avian vet who in turn prescribed it to her own clients; Theresa was surprised to learn that she could teach her vet a thing or two. This important lesson - that each of us can be a teacher - was a turning point for Theresa, and fueled her quest for the knowledge held in lore, and remedies passed by word of mouth. That quest for knowledge continues to this day, as new and old remedies alike are explored. She may not have experience with a particular issue, but she will research it to the best of her ability and share what she finds freely, in the hopes that you can heal or improve your pet's health.
-----------------------------
How To Show Theresa Your Appreciation
If you would like to thank Theresa for her helpful posts, she asks if you would please consider making a donation to one of her favorite local rescue organizations, or by making a donation to help the genius contributor, Ted from Bangkok, recover from his stroke.
One of the best remedies for healing your pet's bacterial and/or yeast infection is the Healthy Ear Recipe (from Arcane). Do a search on this site for "Arcane", and you'll find it. The ingredients to buy are very inexpensive, and easy to mix. And your pet will love you for it!
My dog has chronic Yeast ear infections and like most on this site prescriptions aren't doing the trick . Grizzly Bear is a 95 lb chocolate lab and I am curious to know the amount of Apple Cider Vinegar / water that needs to go in the ear and how many times a day it should be done .
Posted by Nicola (Newcastle Upon Tyne, England) on 01/12/2015
What do u mean by flushing, my dog has a recurring ear infection which wont clear up after vetrinary treatment. I would like to give this apple cider/water a go as he has lots ov black crap in his ears.
The wonderful Theresa from Minneapolis, MN has been helping pet owners and their beloved pets around the world on Earth Clinic since 2013.
About Theresa
Theresa from Minneapolis was born and raised in the inner city, always wishing she had been raised on a farm.
Her love for creatures great and small began at an early age, starting with caterpillars - which continues to this day, along with an interest in all insects and 'creepy crawlies'.
Theresa's interest in pet health started with a bird keeping hobby at age 14, where she learned from another hobbyist that the simple addition of Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) in a bird's drinking water kept fungal infections away; she was able to share this with her avian vet who in turn prescribed it to her own clients; Theresa was surprised to learn that she could teach her vet a thing or two. This important lesson - that each of us can be a teacher - was a turning point for Theresa, and fueled her quest for the knowledge held in lore, and remedies passed by word of mouth. That quest for knowledge continues to this day, as new and old remedies alike are explored. She may not have experience with a particular issue, but she will research it to the best of her ability and share what she finds freely, in the hopes that you can heal or improve your pet's health.
-----------------------------
How To Show Theresa Your Appreciation
If you would like to thank Theresa for her helpful posts, she asks if you would please consider making a donation to one of her favorite local rescue organizations, or by making a donation to help the genius contributor, Ted from Bangkok, recover from his stroke.
Flushing refers to flooding the ear with the solution to rinse away particulate matter and to saturate the area with the working solution.
If your dog has a chronic ear infection, then you have to clean the ears daily if not twice a day to stay on top of the yeast or bacteria so they cannot over grow and cause discomfort.
You might find the addition of baking soda or borax to your dog's drinking water helpful in keeping a chronic infection at bay.
The wonderful Theresa from Minneapolis, MN has been helping pet owners and their beloved pets around the world on Earth Clinic since 2013.
About Theresa
Theresa from Minneapolis was born and raised in the inner city, always wishing she had been raised on a farm.
Her love for creatures great and small began at an early age, starting with caterpillars - which continues to this day, along with an interest in all insects and 'creepy crawlies'.
Theresa's interest in pet health started with a bird keeping hobby at age 14, where she learned from another hobbyist that the simple addition of Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) in a bird's drinking water kept fungal infections away; she was able to share this with her avian vet who in turn prescribed it to her own clients; Theresa was surprised to learn that she could teach her vet a thing or two. This important lesson - that each of us can be a teacher - was a turning point for Theresa, and fueled her quest for the knowledge held in lore, and remedies passed by word of mouth. That quest for knowledge continues to this day, as new and old remedies alike are explored. She may not have experience with a particular issue, but she will research it to the best of her ability and share what she finds freely, in the hopes that you can heal or improve your pet's health.
-----------------------------
How To Show Theresa Your Appreciation
If you would like to thank Theresa for her helpful posts, she asks if you would please consider making a donation to one of her favorite local rescue organizations, or by making a donation to help the genius contributor, Ted from Bangkok, recover from his stroke.
There is no getting around getting fluid in the ears when you flush them; that is the goal, to FLOOD the ear with fluid to flush the debris out, and to get the working component of the solution - the vinegar - deep into the ear canal to kill the yeast. If any part of the ear canal is not flushed with the solution, the yeast remains and the ear cannot heal.
In infected ears that are scratched raw with open sores, I would first use garlic infused olive oil for several days to allow the skin to heal before flushing it with vinegar and water. It may also help to use vinegar, water and isopropyl alcohol [1 part each] to help break down any wax in the ear as well.
Posted by Felicia ( Los Angeles, Ca) on 04/14/2015
When you say flush out, could you pleade give detailed instructions? My dogs ear is swollen and I hear liquid in it...no funds to go to Vet. And his brother keeps wanting to kick his ear to help, which I'm trying to stop but not at home all day. Would peroxide added help also? I mixed: 1 part ACV to 2 parts water and used a spoon to pour in ear, then massage, let shake and absorbed with cotton pad.
Posted by Concerneddogowner (Salescity, United States) on 12/03/2011 ★☆☆☆☆
HORRIBLE! I used this "remedy" on my Chorkie puppy because he was scratching at his ears and shaking his head and would make himself holler. Well I did this prior to taking him to the vet hoping that it would lessen his symptoms in the mean time. Well I started with the first ear and my puppy screamed so loudly I knew I had hurt him. He shook his head ran around rubbed his head on every surface around. Finally get him to the vet for his appointment and he fought with the vet when she went to look at his ear. He is now apparently traumatized by the experience with ACV wash. Now even when I try to put in the medicine that the vet prescribed my husband has to hold my poor puppy down because he is so scared it might be the ACV going into his ear again. THIS IS A NO GO SYSTEM for dogs. Just keep in mind that your dog might react in the same way mine did to the treatment. Be careful and think about what you are about to try before you do it. It could cause your puppy to have a traumatic experience that may result in fear of anything coming close to his ears.
EC: APPLE CIDER VINEGAR -- AND WATER. One part ACV to two parts water seems about right.
Trying the ACV and water for the first time will see how it goes. Another suggestion if your dog has lotsa hair growing out of his ears it helps to pull them so the ear can vent better and not so much gunk or moisture will get trapped BUT PLEASE HAVE A VET show you first how to do it right so you don't hurt your pooch! I have to do this for my Sheepdog and it really helps to keep infections away.This ear infection is kinda my fault because I wasn't keeping up on his ears :-(
The wonderful Theresa from Minneapolis, MN has been helping pet owners and their beloved pets around the world on Earth Clinic since 2013.
About Theresa
Theresa from Minneapolis was born and raised in the inner city, always wishing she had been raised on a farm.
Her love for creatures great and small began at an early age, starting with caterpillars - which continues to this day, along with an interest in all insects and 'creepy crawlies'.
Theresa's interest in pet health started with a bird keeping hobby at age 14, where she learned from another hobbyist that the simple addition of Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) in a bird's drinking water kept fungal infections away; she was able to share this with her avian vet who in turn prescribed it to her own clients; Theresa was surprised to learn that she could teach her vet a thing or two. This important lesson - that each of us can be a teacher - was a turning point for Theresa, and fueled her quest for the knowledge held in lore, and remedies passed by word of mouth. That quest for knowledge continues to this day, as new and old remedies alike are explored. She may not have experience with a particular issue, but she will research it to the best of her ability and share what she finds freely, in the hopes that you can heal or improve your pet's health.
-----------------------------
How To Show Theresa Your Appreciation
If you would like to thank Theresa for her helpful posts, she asks if you would please consider making a donation to one of her favorite local rescue organizations, or by making a donation to help the genius contributor, Ted from Bangkok, recover from his stroke.
For ears that are NOT infected or sore from scratching - for general cleaning or after swimming I have used equal parts water, hydrogen peroxide and rubbing alcohol; I have also used equal parts water, white vinegar and rubbing alcohol. The rubbing alcohol has a drying effect - if you do not want that leave it out or do equal parts water, hydrogen peroxide and white vinegar.
About dog ear infections: After I put ACV/H2O) 50/50 dilution into my dog's very inflammed ear, it irritated her so much, she shook her head for 25 minutes until a large area of swelling on the ear flap (hematoma) developed. I gave homeopathic Arnica right away twice a day until it cleared, (you can give it up to a week. ) Also I gave Rutin, 250 - 500 mg for this 45-lb dog 3 times a day with food. These two things reduced the swelling to zero after 24 hours. You can get both at a health food store.
Hello - My dog woke up this morning with an ear infection. She's a 9 year old black lab mutt that hasn't had an ear infection in over 8 years. I'm trying the ACV mixture, but how many times a day do I squirt the mixture in her ears? Thank you!!
my 11 yr old shitzu has an ear infection on and off for 8 months now and have been keeping his ears clean and dry as possible. I will try the 50/50 cider vinegar/water solution but, I'm not sure about feeding it to him daily. As I've seen it's mostly women who have posted here and I think you all know what vinegar does to your bodies. It kills ALL the friendly bacteria not only in your digestive system, but your other parts also. My wife says it causes yeast infections in women. It does the same to men if they ingest alot of vinegar like what happened a few years ago. He ate pickled everything and Italian dressing on his salad daily. So if anyone knows more about the side effects on our pets, please post. I figure I should feed my dog a teaspoon of plain yougurt every few days to help his digestive system.
All of you folks who are asking about dilution and frequency, it's all in the original post. You don't need to put so much of the solution in your pet's ear that they are shaking it out for half an hour. You can also follow it with aloe vera gel, which is soothing and also will loosen deposits in the ears. If you put the solution in a spray bottle and spray into the ear you won't end up soaking your pet's ear canal and causing them to give themselves injuries due to shaking out all that liquid. One thing that I changed from the original post and would suggest to all of you: use a tablespoon of vodka in place of rubbing alcohol. The solution potentially will drain into the animal's throat from the ear canal and/or be absorbed, and rubbing alcohol is not a healthy substance to ingest. Vodka is clean and digestible. I have poodles, prone to ear issues, and this works for me.
Of course an antibacterial will kill all bacteria, but, just as following the use of prescribed antibiotics, you should add pro-biotic/good bacteria back into your body. Eat yogurt.
Brian from TN opines that vinegar kills bacteria and causes yeast infections. Brian (and his wife) are confusing ANTIBIOTICS, which have those effects, with vinegar, which COUNTERS them. I am afraid someone will read his comment and become afraid of vinegar for the wrong reasons--completely oppositely wrong, in fact! (Sugar is more deadly a culprit in this situation than vinegar. ) P. S. --It has nothing to do with the gender of the person using it.
Posted by Cathy (Picayune, Mississippi) on 03/13/2012
To the one who stated that what goes in the ear canal drains into the mouth is not true. I have a standard poodle who has been prone to ear infections. According to the vet the dogs ear canal has a L shape. Whatever goes in the ear travels into a corner at the bottom and just sits there. Thats what causes the ear infection. Bacteria grows from the moisture left in the ear.
Can anyone help me please. My cat has an ear infection, a tooth infection and his rectum is so big and red and swollen, like a baboon's. I was so scared when I saw it. I'm sorry to say he looks like a rape victim. He is so miserable. I rushed him to the vet and was given 'Clavamox' 125mg plus 2 liquid meds to put in his ears. Oh, plus a cone around his neck. Unfortunatly I lost my job last month so I could only afford the office visit, Clavamox, ear cleaning and the collar ($121). I desperately need a home remedy that will really work and won't hurt or damage him. I'm a bit confused with all the 'yeas and nays', the dosages and the application. It is so hard to see my baby this way as i'm sure any pet owner can relate. I'd really apreciate any helpful tips that will ease his dicomfort and eradicate this problem. My cat and I thank you and wish u all the best of luck with your precious ones.
Posted by Nh Gardener (Sanbornton, Nh, Usa) on 06/18/2012
For British from Long Island re. Cat with ear and tooth infection and swollen behind--Please give him/her food grade diatomaceous earth in his raw apple cider-dampened food, starting with 1 tsp. Once a day, increasing gradually to rounded to heaping tsp. 2 X/day. DE absorbs and eliminates toxins from body, and is inexpensive. Check health food store or internet for sources, or I would be glad to send you some if I knew your postal or email adDr.Also add gently melted coconut oil to food, starting with 1 tsp once a day, increasing slowly to 1--2 tsps. 2 X/day. You might try dropping into ear from eyedropper, diluted ACV with DE in it; or if possible after swabbing out, applying gently melted coconut oil into ear. For the behind, if possible, I would gently massage or simply apply gently melted coconut oil with DE in it at 2 or 3 X/day. If kitty doesn't allow you to touch it, the DE in his food should help a lot. If he refuses his food with these supplements, apply to fur, paws, legs so he'll lick it off. Try at least a few times in his food, though. Best wishes to cat and to you.
Posted by Donna (Cape Breton, Canada) on 12/12/2009
We have a long haired 10 year old cat that has had chronic ear infections all her life. Vets have told us that it is a yeast infection, not mites. Same story as everyone else. Many vet visits and much $$$ later, no relief.
I read about Apple Cider Vinegar and tried some in her ear last night. Just a couple of drops of organic ACV. I didn't dilute it with water - didn't read the posts on this site until after I had done it. It was clearly painful for her and I felt terrible so I'm hesitant to try it again. Would diluting it have made a difference in the how much it would sting?
Her ear is red, hot and has some scratches from her constant digging at it. I was wondering if I could use Traumeel Gel for a few days to help with the inflammation and scratches so that if I use the ACV again it won't sting her as much.
Also wondering about witch hazel. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks!
EC: APPLE CIDER VINEGAR -- AND WATER. One part ACV to two parts water seems about right.
Posted by Donna (Cape Breton, Canada) on 12/12/2009
I also meant to ask how much Apple Cider Vinegar to put in a cat's water. We have 4 cats and water bowls all over the house which I change daily. Is this something that takes time for the cats to get used to or is the amount added so small that they don't notice? Thanks again!
Posted by Winterhawke (Spokane, Wa/usa) on 12/11/2010
My 15 year old cat has some sort of med resistant ear infection. In the past year, I have taken her to 3 different veterinarians and who each prescribed 3 different ear meds. The last vet prescribe an otic ointment called gentamicin. In researching it after it too failed to address her ear condition, I found it to be a very broad spectrum medication that is effective to every ear pathogen, including yeasts and fungi, that I, (a previous vet teach of 10 years), have ever heard of.
I am on a very low income and so can not afford the huge cost of another vet visit. Thus, I did an Internet search and came upon your wonderful site, and noticed many contributors using vinegar as an ear treatment. I have been treating her with a 50/50 solution, of white vinegar to water, for about 2 weeks now which has had no effect and the dark brown liquidy discharge has continued along with her discomfort.
Yesterday, I ran out and purchased some ACV and mixed it to a 50/50 to water solution and shall begin a treatment with that hoping that the particular kind of vinegar used may make a difference. I am really at a loss as to what to try if the ACV solution does not work. I would very much appreciate any ideas that anyone can contribute. Seeing my feline friend suffer is just not acceptable, and so, if any of you could post an idea ASAP, I would certainly appreciate it. There is also a store in town where alternative ingredients can be purchased, or perhaps someone could suggest an online company that sells a product that may work. No matter what, I thank you for reading my plea and for any advice that you could give to me. A Cat Lover in Spokane, Washington
Feed your pets some Plain Yogurt daily. Just a spoonful a day will do and they love it. Not temporarily just to treat the problem, but always as their daily routine because it's good for them anyway and will be a preventative. When it's a yeast infection in the ear then they have a yeast infection internally in their body. Drops in the ears from vets are not treating their whole body. Yogurt works on their whole body. Also, if your pet is having chronic yeast infections then you should look into them having a food allergy. Find a food that is for pets with allergies. Do some research online about pet food quality and how to narrow it down to find out what their allergy could be. Animals with allergies tend to get yeast infections. Also, if they've been on antibiotics they can get yeast infections.
Concern about the ACV solution!! First time user of this solution and wondering if it is normal for a dogs ear to ooze puss after using the solution.. Our dog seems to have relief but we were or are concerned about this being a problem??
The wonderful Theresa from Minneapolis, MN has been helping pet owners and their beloved pets around the world on Earth Clinic since 2013.
About Theresa
Theresa from Minneapolis was born and raised in the inner city, always wishing she had been raised on a farm.
Her love for creatures great and small began at an early age, starting with caterpillars - which continues to this day, along with an interest in all insects and 'creepy crawlies'.
Theresa's interest in pet health started with a bird keeping hobby at age 14, where she learned from another hobbyist that the simple addition of Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) in a bird's drinking water kept fungal infections away; she was able to share this with her avian vet who in turn prescribed it to her own clients; Theresa was surprised to learn that she could teach her vet a thing or two. This important lesson - that each of us can be a teacher - was a turning point for Theresa, and fueled her quest for the knowledge held in lore, and remedies passed by word of mouth. That quest for knowledge continues to this day, as new and old remedies alike are explored. She may not have experience with a particular issue, but she will research it to the best of her ability and share what she finds freely, in the hopes that you can heal or improve your pet's health.
-----------------------------
How To Show Theresa Your Appreciation
If you would like to thank Theresa for her helpful posts, she asks if you would please consider making a donation to one of her favorite local rescue organizations, or by making a donation to help the genius contributor, Ted from Bangkok, recover from his stroke.
Without seeing your dog's ears in real time, it is hard to comment on the pus being normal or not.
If you cannot afford a vet, I would continue the flushing 2x3 times a day to see if it helps heal the ears. If it get's worse you may need to see the vet, as a worsening condition can lead to deafness in that ear.
Pit bull rescue had fab ears, now 5 years old and shook head so hard got blood bump & have to have surgery. I had thought he fort stung by something did not realize something wrong and his head shaking caused that. Vet gave antibiotic, cone head and don't ask the price. Now his slice is finally healing but ears still red (both now) & he shakes them. Just going nuts that he does not feel well. Read and will try garlic/oil rub since do not think ACV with red ears would be good to try. Some one said there are other home remedies or solutions to make please advise. food is tractor supply 4-health so grains are not high, changed winter rye grass in back yard, could that be allergy? Scared so now cover whole yard in heavy fabric. At wits end and on pension. Help
A few days ago, I found out my dog ear had black gunk and the pink ear is now brown. First I cleaned the black gunk out and then a fistful Diatomaceous earth rubbed inside his ear. Right before walking him I did this for several days.
I gave him 2 coffee enemas two days apart 60 ml syringe with one single packet of pure instant coffee.
And then I gave him 2grams of TMG.
TMG basically detoxes heavy metal. and my dog is less than 10 poounds. 2 gram might be twoo much? yesterday and today my dog is especially playing hard..So I think not.
It has been 5 days. His both inner ears are pink. And I will not give him a bath another week or so just to be sure.
Posted by Gsabrin22 (Miami, Florida, USA) on 08/09/2009 ★☆☆☆☆
I recently got a dog and once we took him to the vet they told us he had an ear infection. Of course they wanted to give him a bunch of pills and antibiotics which were going to cost me a lot of money. I decided to try this alternative approach instead. The half water/half ACV...I've been cleaning my dogs ears and putting 2 drops of the solution on each ear...but he continues to scratch...
Am i doing something wrong? should I do it more than once a day? should I put more drops in it? Also I have realized that cleaning with a cotton swab doesn't really take much out..I'm scared of trying a q-tip since i've heard it can make it worst.
I am completely new at this, since he is my first puppy. I will appreciate any feedback. Thanks!
I have a stray cat I adopted whose right ear stunk and was oozing gunky brown stuff. Took him to a low cost clinic where I sat for 3 hours before being seen then was told it was a yeast and bacterial infection. They couldn't treat him till he was sedated and had bloodwork. Come back tomorrow, they said... Didn't want to wait hours and hours again so I took him to my vet who said he had an ear tumor and no infection whatsoever.... Gee, who was I to believe? I saw the ACV treatment on this site and figured I didn't have anything to lose. I've treated him 2 times and most of the gunk is gone and not coming back each morning. The smell is only half as bad as it was. This is great...I see most people only used this on dogs..any other cat people out there? How many days did you treat your feline?
EC: APPLE CIDER VINEGAR -- AND WATER. One part ACV to two parts water seems about right.
We will try the ACV, but first have a question: Wondering if our dog's infection is different than the rest of yours? I hear the ACV is only for certain types of infections, and many of you mention classic symptoms of itching, redness, pain - sometimes associated with swimming. Our lab doesn't swim (i know, weird) - but we've been to the vet three times $$$ getting antibiotics and washes for her ear. Her symptoms - not to gross anyone out, but - include major discharge, creamy and then hardens to a dark brown color. Very messy, hardens around the ear... Is this more severe than all you are talking about, or just a different type of infection? Does anyone have experience with the ACV OR White vinegar treatments for infections that include this infectious discharge? Thanks so much for your help!... :)
Posted by Connie (Manitowoc, Wisconsin) on 08/06/2009
When I overuse q-tips or rub to hard it tends to encourage more wax and infection in my own ears. Maybe try adjusting the ratio of the solution and don't rub or clean so much?
We adopted a very old Cocker Spaniel from a relative who had really bad ear infections. I came up with a way to allow more air to get into the ear canals and help prevent some of the reoccurring infections. There are 2 ways; first you get a rubberband and pull the hair from the ends of the floppy ears together, above their head, and bunch them up. You have to get a pretty good amount of hair and use a smaller rubberband, or 2. The other way is to create a sling for both of their ears. I made 2 loops using some elastic cord from a dust mask and connected them together with another piece of elastic. In this shape O--O. The ears go in the holes and the tension can be adjusted by the piece in between. It will not lift them completely up, but it will give them an inch or so which helps keep them inhospitable to the infections. I think the best way is the first, just make sure to put some sunblock on the inside of the ears if they will be outside with you for a couple of hours. Don't want them getting burned.
Another thing that helps ear infections in general is to put a warm/hot compress on the outside of the ears below the opening to the ear. This will weaken the bacteria or fungi and increase circulation.
This isn't a remedy I'm posting I'm actually curious as to the measurements and how many times a day and how many days should I give my dog the apple cider vinegar. And would vinegar work instead or does it have to be ACV? My dog has had 4 ear infections since February and I keep going to the vet just to get more medicine and for them to tell me the same thing over. Thanks guys.
EC: APPLE CIDER VINEGAR -- AND WATER. One part ACV to two parts water seems about right.
My vet recommended the vinegar cure for ear infections. His recommendation was 1/2 white vinegar, 1/2 rubbing alcohol. Put drops in dog's ear when he started to scratch.
Posted by Leslie (Indianapolis, Indiana) on 10/23/2009
My Golden Retriever has had some persistent ear infections. To treat them, I have to be persistent, too! Undiluted alcohol and vinegar would probably burn your poor dog's ear a LOT. Try a cup of warm water and 2 Tablespoons of apple cider vinegar on a cotton ball, twice a day (it is easiest to do one early and one before bedtime). This worked and clear up a really persistent, ongoing infection. The vet just kept wanting to give meds. Go the natural route. It's cheaper and just as effective, but you must be persistent and do not skip days (or the infection will sneak back up).
Posted by Gsabrin22 (Miami, Florida, USA) on 08/09/2009
can u tell me exactly what u did to your dog that it worked? how many drops a day and how u cleaned the ear? I am having trouble figuring it, I've been doing it for my dogs for a few days now but he continues to scratch. Thanks!
EC: APPLE CIDER VINEGAR -- AND WATER. One part ACV to two parts water seems about right.
Posted by Jim (Green Bay, Wisconsin) on 05/16/2009
we have an old shepard mx. he has always been a tremendously obidient dog. I was seriously worried when what seemed like an ear infection started affecting his hearing and seemingly his internal compass. It happened almost overnite. we thought maybe he had a stroke, not being able to afford vet bills we hoped for a rebound, he is slightly better. But in my search for a solution i found this site. i am immediatley goin to try acv hope it works good for a great dog!
EC: APPLE CIDER VINEGAR -- AND WATER. One part ACV to two parts water seems about right.
Posted by Connie (Manitowoc, Wisconsin) on 08/06/2009
If it happened overnight and seemed to affect his internal compass it might be he has a punctured ear drum? It might not be a good idea to put vinegar and alcohol in an ear with a punctured ear drum.....
Thank you for writing that your dog was thrashing and trying to get at its ear. My dog has had on and off again chronic ear infection for the past few yers. Its a terrible thing. I feel so guilty and everyone always asks me what's wrong with her ears. I feel like a bad owner. I've tried all the vet and store products. Well, I decided to give the ACV/Alcohol and water treatment. She looked like she was in so much pain and was trying to get at her ear. I felt so bad! But, then afterwards, she panted, drank water and seemed to calm down. I noticed that her ear no longer smelled and that it seemed to be clearing up. Less stuff in her ears. I was doing every other day, but I will try 3 days in a row like suggested. I just want to make sure I'm not hurting her further.
Looking forward to trying the ACV & Water mixture for our Catahoula mix we adopted about 2 months ago. Since having him he has been on a mixture of medications with no relief from his chronic ear infections. We were told from the shelter he was tested for allergies and is allergic to pollen and molds and was on and off medications the entire year he was at the shelter. In addition to the roller coaster of antibiotics, he is also on an allergy medicine trial called Allercept (started while in the shelter). This dog has the sweetest disposition for being so uncomfortable, we want to do anything to help him get better. However, we are concerned with the continued use of medications and the mounting vet bills.
I have also switched his food recently to a grain, yeast, gluten free diet (salmon based) in case his ear infections could be related to food allergies... which I have also read a lot connecting the two.
So happy to have found this site.... Any recommendations on how much to apply each time and how frequently? Thanks again.
Dogs with ear infections, allergies, yeast. These problems need to be fixed from the source. All owners need to read the website greatdanelady.com. Many questions will be answered that your vet has not.
I am about to try apple cider vinegar mixed with 1/2 water for an ear infection on my Westie. I only have distilled white vinegar on hand. Will that be good or should I go out and get the apple cider vinegar?
in my experience white vinegar is better at killing things than ACV is and ACV is better for taking internally since it has nutritional qualities.
i have found that putting a few drops of garlic oil (from a garlic oil capsule) really helps ear infections in myself. i have not tried it on my dog - but i do give my dogs garlic orally for flea control. it must be NON de-odorized garlic. djh/texas
Posted by Leslie (Langley, BC. Canada) on 03/02/2009
apparently trying silver colloidal water drops works well to clear up ear infections (most likely based on the type of infection) but it is cheaper and a more natural remedy for the dog. people can use it as well. available at a health food store.
You should seriously consider having your dog allergy tested becuse chronic ear infections can be due to food allergies. The allergy can be anything from fillers/grains to secific proteins. If it is an allergy you can get rid of the chronic ear infection by simply changing the food!
Posted by Tricia (Hampton Roads, Virginia) on 11/28/2008
I have a Cocker Spaniel that always gets ear infections. I found this site and read all the reviews on using ACV to treat the infection. My question is how do I know how to mix it and how much to put in his ear ? Do I Dilute the ACV with water ? If someone could tell me that would be helpful. Thanks.
We had issues with our mix getting recurring ear infections when she was young. We finally switched her to Wellness brand dog food and that pretty much cleared up her issues. She occasionally gets yeasty red ears when she spends too much time outside, but we found something that you can make called: Blue Power Ear Treatment that works wonders! it truly is amazing how well it works! It contains: alcohol, gentian violet and boric acid
Posted by Connie (Manitowoc, Wisconsin) on 08/06/2009
Would it help to crank the heat way up to roast the mites before using the heat or air, and putting some kind of filter over the vents for the first few uses? Barbaric... I know....
Posted by Peggy (Hillsboro, Missouri) on 09/28/2008
Regarding ACV to treat ear infections in dogs, how long do you treat? I see to use 2/H20 to 1/ACV once daily, but for how long? I am anxious to try this!
So this is my second time trying ACV for our Old English Sheepdog pup. (the first for a UTI) She's been barking at us for unknown reasons & we were all getting frustrated. While grooming her I thought I should clean her ears. Her left had quite a bit of dark wax. After reading this sites' advice I have now given her a treatment of ACV & water directly into her ear canals then wiped with a soft facecloth. I'll let you know how it works.
Posted by La Verne (Hampton Roads, Virginia) on 01/10/2008
Dear Users of the Earth Clinic website, I have been reading your comments and I have been truly amazed at the information on this site. I have a 6 year old German Shepherd. Chronic ear infections. I have been going to the vet on a Teacher's salary and it has taken me straight to the poor house. With your comments and remedies about ACV and other home rememdies... I feel like I have gone to church and been Saved!!! I will definately try these rememdies. Last summer my dogs' ear infection had gotten so out of control that I seriously thought about having my 102 pound girl put down. She was in such misery and turmoil. So was I , not getting any sleep for all the scratching and digging, whining and crying... it was Awful. Thanks to you readers of Earth Clinic I have new hope! Please keep sending your comments and suggestions for pet remedies. You have definately helped me out!!! Thank-You Thank-You!
Posted by Dawn (South Barrington, Il) on 12/01/2009
My Maltese has recently gone completely deaf from an ear infection. I tried the Apple Cider Vinegar but I don't think the ear canal is open enough to receive the medication. Has anyone found a way to open up the ear canal or reduce swelling? I'm considering giving her benadryl to see if it's allergy related.
By the way, I use ACV all the time with my German Shephard/Doberman Mix to cure Urinary Tract Infections. I give her one tablespoons twice a day (she weights 110lbs) for a few days. It is usually gone soon after the first treatment. By the way, I do this for myself and it cures my UTI's too. You gotta love ACV
U. can use tucks pads or buy liquid witch hazel. It will take down the swelling. Then u can put the medication on a piece of cloth or cotton ball and use it as a wick to get it into the ear. Just make sure it's long enough for u to retrieve it when needed.
Posted by Tricia (Hamilton, On, Canada) on 12/18/2007 ★★★★★
I have a seven year old indoor siamese, have been having trouble with his ears getting dirty for the last year and a half, vet has treated him with clavamox and prednisone and even though the scratching stops it returns as soon as the meds are finishedl. I recently read the article re apple cider vinegar and the dirt in his ears is basically almost gone and the scratching has stopped, obviously this method is working but I still do not know what is causing the dirt. The vet said it was an infection and the clavamox would cure it but it did not. I have to say I am extremely impressed with the acv remedy. Hopefully in time this will cure him completely.
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