Can moisture from baths cause dog ear infections? How to dry ears?

I would actually be more concerned that Zeke has developed an ear infection. It's possible that the moisture from the bath caused an overgrowth of yeast or bacteria, but it's also possible that he has an underlying allergy leading to an infection. I'd recommend seeing your vet so they can examine his ear. They might recommend taking a sample for cytology to look for yeast and/or bacteria under the microscope. They can prescribe medications if it does seem consistent with an infection.

It is true that getting water in Oliver's ears does increase the risk of an ear infection, and it is very important that you dry his ears thoroughly. If he gave a good shake after the bath and you dried the inside of his ears with the towel, it's likely he got all of the water out.

The two are likely not related. Ear infections can be avoided by regular cleaning and keeping the ears as dry as possible. Especially after swimming or bathing. Mike should be examined by your veterinarian. A swab of the ear can be examined to determine if there is a fungal or bacterial infection so that the proper medications can be dispensed.

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! You can try putting cotton in his ears to prevent excessive water getting into the canal. The best way is to clean the ears with an ear cleaner with alcohol (not straight alcohol) to dry the water after. Kisses to Tux!

The signs you are describing are indicative of an ear infection. Sometimes, these can resolve with topical over the counter treatment, but antibiotics or antifungal medication may be necessary. I recommend using an ear cleaning solution or wipes to clean the ear once or twice a day. There are many options available in pet stores, but look out for something with a mild acid in it (salicylic acid or apple cider vinegar are good ingredients). If the condition does not begin to resolve on its own, Baloo may need to be seen by his vet for prescription medications. I hope this helps and that all is well!

I am sorry to hear about your concern for your cat! You can try using some cotton balls or cotton rounds and placing them into the ears to absorb any excess water. Do not place anything down into the inside of the ear, such as a qtip, as this can cause more problems. In most cases, a little water in the ears will not cause an issue but occasionally may result in an ear infection from the increased moisture. You can pick up an ear cleaner at your vet or the pet store which have chemical properties that dry out the ear if she still seems to be shaking her ears tomorrow.

Hi, thanks for using PetCoach! Poor Filio! Chronic otitis is usually a sign of allergies to food or the environment. If she eats mostly a chicken based diet I would change her to a different meat protein like fish, venison, beef or pork. Give it a good 2-3 months and do not offer any other treats or food that isn't the same protein as what is in the food you chose. I would highly recommend a long term medicated ear wash. And only used topical antibiotics and antifungals in the ear when she has an active infection. When there is an active infection I recommend cleaning every other day for 2 weeks and then decreasing slowly in frequency at one month intervals. Dogs with chronic infections should at least have their ears cleaned 1-2 times per week forever. Consider plucking the hair form her ears so there is more air flow through the ears. All that hair traps moisture. If she will not tolerate cotton in her ears then be extra careful with water on her head and around her ears. They also make drying drops. I would also clean her ears more frequently post bath. I hope this helps in some way! https://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?pcatid=24620 https://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?pcatid=27611