Medial ADVICE...not treatment (please check with your dog's veterinarian 🙂 )
Neosporin is safe to put on any open wound, even if a pet can lick it off. BUT...if there is a lot of hair around the wound, the ointment tends to trap bacteria and dirt, not treat the infection itself.
That said, let me give you a little bit of advice about ears 🙂
Cleaning is half the battle. Keep up on removing debris - it's the perfect media for bacteria and yeast. Moisture is a big component. That's why floppy ear dogs tend to have more problems (not to mention many of them love the water) - air does not circulate around the ear canals enough to keep them dry. Look for a cleaning agent that has a non-irritating drying agent component to it. Your vet should carry one. That said, over cleaning can
become an issue if you dry out the ear too much (the skin will be thick, rough, and cracked if this occurs...call for advice!).
The dog's ear canal is "L" shaped - made up of a vertical and a horizontal component. Make sure you add enough cleaner and enough medication to penetrate to the lower portion unless otherwise instructed by your veterinarian. Yes, this means using a LOT of stuff - it's not cheap to treat ear problems. It's easier to prevent infection/maintain healthy ears 🙂
Best method for cleaning (and if I'm insulting your intelligence, I apologize...but I normally show owners the first time - and many are unfamiliar with how to proceed): Fill both ear canals with cleaning solution and deeply massage the base of the dog's ear (most dogs will be moaning and groaning and leaning into your hand as they enjoy this sensation). Allow the dog to shake its head to loosen deeper debris. Wipe out excess cleaning solution and debris with a kleenex wrapped around your index finger. Use q-tips ONLY in the visible cracks and crevices if debris is stuck.
Other considerations: there are normally two main types of ear infections in dogs - bacteria and yeast. Different medications are used to treat them so be sure you aren't using an inappropriate topical treatment - it will not work. Both infections can be painful and itchy. For many of these dogs, allergies are a component. Ask your vet about suggestions (these may include diet change as food allergy is a big culprit for ears).
Good luck!
Dr. Des
