Otitis externa is an inflammation of the dog’s external auditory canal and the surrounding skin. It is also known as swimmer’s ear, seawater ear, or hot-tub rash because it occurs when moisture creates a breeding ground for bacteria inside the dog’s ears.
I have seen a couple of canine warriors like Chase and Zoe battle this condition a couple of times, and I can say that no pet owner is comfortable watching their dog in such discomfort. The first port of call is the vet’s office.
One recommendation many good veterinarians make is the Otibiotic Ointment for dogs. The reason is that it is super effective for tackling bacteria and yeast infections in dogs’ ears.
Things To Consider Before Buying Otic Medication For Your Dog
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Dog’s allergens
Be sure that your dog doesn’t have an allergic reaction to certain ingredients like gentamicin sulfate, betamethasone, and clotrimazole. That is why it is very important to work with your vet’s recommendations and keep them updated on your canine’s progress.
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The severity of the dog’s condition
How severe your dog’s condition is should also be considered before picking an otic medication for your dog. If your dog is already showing signs of pain, it is more advisable to go for a treatment option that involves less pain.
For instance, some otic medications require that you clean the affected ear before administering treatment. So a dog in severe pain will have to endure so much pain whenever treatment time comes. Going for a pain-free option is the more humane thing to do. Your pet will appreciate it.
Otibiotic Ointment for Dogs
Otibiotic Ointment by Henry Schein Animal Health is an ear medication that contains an antibacterial, an anti-inflammatory, and an antifungal. It is used to treat acute and/or chronic canine otitis externa and outer ear infections when caused by yeast or bacteria susceptible to gentamicin.
Its three active ingredients are gentamicin, betamethasone, and clotrimazole. These ingredients lend to the ointment’s antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal properties. Gentamicin sulfate is an antibiotic effective against a range of bacteria, including those commonly found around dog ears.
Betamethasone valerate is an adrenocorticosteroid very useful for dermatological purposes. It has anti-pruritic and anti-inflammatory properties that prove useful when managing otitis externa topically.
Clotrimazole is an antifungal agent used in treating dermal infections caused by yeasts and species of pathogenic dermatophytes. You can read the article Derma-iONX For Dogs: A Quick Product Review for insights on tackling dermal infections. Clotrimazole works best against dividing and growing organisms. Among fungi, there is a rare resistance to clotrimazole.
Because of these three active ingredients, when administered correctly, Otibiotic Ointment for dogs will be beneficial to your infected canine as it reduces soreness, swelling, discomfort, and odor while delivering an immense antimicrobial effect.
Learn more about Quadritop Ointment for Dogs: A Quick Review
Directions for Use
- Use a non-irritating solution to thoroughly clean the external ear.
- If there is excessive hair around the treatment area, clip it off.
- When the eardrum is certified intact and well dried, apply the ointment following the vet’s prescription.
Precautions
- Do not use it on pregnant dogs.
- Ensure that you do not apply the otibioitics ointment for dogs if your dog has a ruptured eardrum.
- Confirm that your dog does not react adversely to the active ingredients.
- And if your dog has an allergic reaction, discontinue use and consult with the vet on the next line of action.
- Take note of the vet’s recommended dosage before administering the ointment, as dosage varies based on the dog’s body weight.
- Administering the doses beyond 7 days can be counter-effective.
Pros
- Contains antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory.
- Customers agree that it has great value for money.
- Brings a significant improvement to the dog’s condition.
Cons
- Pre-cleaning requirements may be very uncomfortable for dogs already undergoing bouts of pain due to an ear infection.
- Frequent use of the ointment is discouraged, so it cannot be used for preventing ear infections or routine ear care.
Otibiotic Ointment for Dogs: Benefits and Features
- Designed for dogs
This ointment is suitable for dogs of all breeds, ages, and sizes.
- It is antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory
The ointment is effective in preventing the growth of fungi and bacteria colonies and also getting rid of inflammations.
- Cures acute otitis externa caused by yeast
If your dog is suffering from chronic otitis externa caused by any bacteria vulnerable to gentamicin, using otibiotic ointment will help to improve his situation.
Read more about Garlic Oil For Ear Infection In Dogs: Amazing Facts That Will Blow Your Mind!
Alternatives
This Zymox Otic Enzymatic solution from Pet Kings Brand is super effective for eliminating bacteria, fungi, and yeast infections that contribute to otitis externa. Unlike Otibiotics Ointment, it is safe for both dogs and cats.
It doesn’t require pre-cleaning, so dogs already experiencing pain won’t need to be subjected to more in the name of getting their ears cleaned for the treatment. The patented LP3 Enzyme System helps get rid of ear secretions, cleaning and disinfecting the ear while eliminating the resistant bacteria.
Dechra MalAcetic Otic Cleanser
This cleanser is a naturally medicated acetic and boric acid solution with multi cleanse properties that effectively clean your pet’s ears without stinging them. The cleaner keeps the ears dry and free of buildup while also protecting your pet from ear infections.
MalAcetic Otic Cleanser has been proven effective against otitis externa. Unlike Otibiotics Ointment, it is suitable for cats of all ages.
Veterinary Formula Ear Therapy
This painless and alcohol-free medicated ear drop is specially formulated to relieve pets of fungal and bacterial infections. It is suitable for both treatment and prevention and can be used frequently, unlike Otibiotic Ointment for dogs which should not be used for more than 7 days.
If you have a feline whose ears need some help, the Ear Therapy by Veterinary Formula will be very suitable for them. Small animals over 12 weeks old will be thankful for this gentle treatment.
Conclusion On Otibiotic Ointment for Dogs
While getting help for your infected dog is paramount to your mind, be sure to read the directions on the label of a product before administering it to your pet. Otibiotic Ointmentfor dogs is a prescription product, so first, consult with your vet that you’re giving your pet the right dosage.
Also, ensure that you keep your pet’s environment in the most pristine condition possible to reduce the risk of future ear infections.
How do you apply ointment to a dog's ear?
Administering any medication to your dog can sometimes feel like a hassle but it is worth it in the end. For ointments meant for the dog's ears, ensure to read the instructions carefully and have the supplies necessary for the process ready.
It is advisable to have someone help with restraining the dog, it will prevent the dog from injuring itself or anyone else. The dog's neck should rest on your elbow, with your hand under the dog's head.
You can hold the flap of the ear with your hand, and also ensure that the nozzle of the ointment aims into the ear canal. Gently squeeze ointment out and then massage the base of the ear.
How long is Otibiotic ointment good?
Every medication has its "best before" dates. Usually, when your Veterinarian prescribes otibiotics, you should ensure to read the label, this will be informing on how long that medication is good for.
What is Otibiotic ointment used for?
Otibiotics ointment is used for the treatment of ear infections and inflammations. It could contain antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal components.
Is betamethasone safe to use on dogs?
Betamethasone is used for the treatment of skin inflammations in dogs. It is available in lotion, gel, cream as well as ointment forms. It is absolutely safe for dogs. Consult your veterinarian for instructions on how to use this medication.