Ears

~Lend me your ear 

The Weimaraner ear may well be your biggest challenge. The ear issue may not be looming large for you but for many it is problematic. It is wise to give the ears the attention before a problem presents. Discomfort (due ear infection) can spiral out of control and become something more painful.

Why is the Weimaraner ear health a bigger concern than with some other breeds? One explanation is simple--the inner ear environment is perfect for an infection. Secondly, a Weimaraner may have a narrow ear canal keeping the moisture trapped in the lower ear canal. This environment can exacerbate the propensity of the flop-eared Weimaraner to develop the occasional infection.

Very often, one ear is more prone to this issue more than the other. As you are probably aware, some paired body parts (such as feet and ears for the human as well as critters) are not always identical in every way. For example, a lot of people have one foot slightly larger than the other. Not every face is symmetrical, nor are the ears always the same shape and size. Likewise, it is very common that the ear canals can be less than perfect--one may be smaller than the other. The narrow ear canal is more prone to infections.​

Bacterial, Viral, or Yeast

Infections may be bacterial, viral, or yeast based. Your Vet office can culture the ear by taking a sample. Then you know what you are dealing with--and in turn you get the right treatment. The warm and moist ear it is the perfect environment for any one of these three scenarios to take hold. It is more than likely it could be a combination of any or all three scenarios. The big three are not the only culprits that can attack the ear. There is the ear mites or the occasional fleas problem. The most important thing to remember is the untreated ear issues can result in not only discomfort but pain. For the head shaking Weimaraner, it may lead to a very painful hematoma. None of us want to face this scenario. Not only is the problem terrible for our beloved Weim, but it can also be expensive. A recurring ear infection can be costly to treat.

Cleaning the Weimaraner's Ears

It is good to develop the habit of cleaning your pet's ears.
Depending upon your skill level, you may want to enlist a friend's help. Look at this like a job. It is not something you or the beloved Weimaraner is going to love. 

1. We recommend doing this outside when possible or in your walk in shower. 
2. Clean the ear with a gentle cleanser. We prefer using the Vetericyn Ear Rinse. 
3. If the outer ear is waxy, start by cleaning it with a simple cosmetic pad. The cosmetic facial wipes (that come in round or square shape) are ideal for this purpose. 
4. A Q-tip may also be used to clean the outer ear folds and the very edge of the ear canal. Never insert and press wavy debris down into the ear. You can also do a lot of damage probing in the ear canal.
5. Once the outer ear is clean then you fill the ear canal with your ear rinse and fold the earflap over the top--then gently massage the inner ear. After you have done this with both ears, step back and let them shake their ear. 
6. Wipe the outer ear with another cosmetic pad.
7. Try to leave the ear alone for a week. Revisit it and if it presents with waxy discharge again, you are going to have to do a round of treatment.

The great thing about the Vetericyn is it attacks all three culprits--bacterial, viral, and yeast infections. Therefore; if you begin with this product, often nothing else will be needed. There are other good ear washes; however, for the money and effectiveness, the Vetericyn is hard to beat. 

In a pinch, you may mix cider vinegar and water (50-50) and use that. The Weimaraner ear may well be your biggest challenge. It may not; however, for some of our fur family members the ear canal leads to discomfort. In some cases, the problem spirals out fo control. You may be aware that body parts (human and in the animal world) even when they come in pairs are not always identical in every way. For example, a lot of people have one foot slightly larger than the other. It is very common that the ear canals can be less than perfect--one may be smaller than the other. Sometimes both ear canals are restricted.

Cosmetic Pads

Any cosmetic pad will work; however, one that does leave  cotton debris--or one that doesn't break apart is preferable. This type is highly recommended!

Cotton Labo ORGANIC Cotton Puff M size 200pc 2set

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Coming Soon!

We will talk about the ear-challenged Weimaraner. By that, we mean those that have the recurring ear issue. This post is about the prevention and on-going Weimaraner ear care.

OwyheeStar Weimaraner Disclaimer

When you purchase products using our links we receive a small referral fee which helps us provide this informational blog. Thank you in advance for purchasing through our website. 

Secondly, we want to disclose our recommendations or advice is based solely on our experience with the Weimaraner. Neither Cliff or Shela Nielsen are not a licensed Vet Technician, nor are either of a licensed Veterinarian. When in doubt about a medical concern please check with your Veterinary professional.

Finally, all information and photos are of the property of OwyheeStar Weimaraners. Some are photos provided by the OwyheeStar clients and they have been used with permission. © 2016