Ear Care in the Desert: Preventing Infections After Pool Days or Trips to the Riparian Preserve

Why Ear Infections Are So Common in Arizona

You might think a dry desert climate would mean fewer ear infections, but Arizona dogs deal with them constantly. The culprit? Water recreation. Between backyard pools, splash pads at Cosmo Dog Park, and trips to the Riparian Preserve, Arizona dogs get their ears wet frequently.

When water gets trapped in the ear canal, it creates a warm, moist environment where bacteria and yeast thrive. Add in the desert dust that settles in ears during windy days, and you've got a recipe for infection.

Breeds Most At Risk

Floppy-eared breeds are especially susceptible because their ear flaps trap moisture:

• Cocker Spaniels
• Basset Hounds
• Golden Retrievers
• Labrador Retrievers
• Doodles (all varieties)
• Beagles
• Cavalier King Charles Spaniels

Dogs with hairy ear canals (Poodles, Schnauzers, Bichons) are also at higher risk because hair traps moisture and debris.

Signs of an Ear Infection

Watch for:

• Head shaking or tilting
• Scratching at ears excessively
• Redness or swelling inside the ear flap
• Brown, yellow, or bloody discharge
• Odor — infected ears have a distinct, unpleasant smell
• Sensitivity — flinching when ears are touched
• Loss of balance — in severe cases

Prevention: The Post-Water Routine

After Every Swim or Splash Pad Visit:

1. Gently dry the outer ear with a soft towel or cotton ball
2. Use a veterinary ear drying solution — these contain drying agents that evaporate trapped moisture
3. Massage the base of the ear after applying the solution — you'll hear a squishing sound
4. Let your dog shake — this helps expel excess solution and moisture
5. Wipe away any debris that comes out

Weekly Maintenance:

• Inspect ears visually — look for redness, discharge, or odor
• Clean with a vet-approved ear cleaner — squirt into the canal, massage, let the dog shake, wipe
• Never use cotton swabs (Q-tips) — you can push debris deeper or damage the ear canal

Ear Cleaning Products We Recommend

Look for ear cleaners that contain:

• Salicylic acid — Helps with wax and mild infections
• Drying agents (isopropyl alcohol in small amounts) — Evaporates moisture
• Aloe or chamomile — Soothes irritation
• Antifungal ingredients — Prevents yeast overgrowth

Avoid cleaners with hydrogen peroxide or harsh chemicals.

The Grooming Connection

At Gordie's, ear cleaning is included in every grooming package. During each visit, we:

• Inspect the ear canal for signs of infection
• Clean out wax and debris
• Trim excess ear hair (when appropriate)
• Alert you if we notice anything concerning

Regular grooming means regular ear checks — and early detection is key to preventing serious infections.

When to See the Vet

Head to the vet if:

• Home cleaning doesn't resolve symptoms within 2–3 days
• Your dog is in obvious pain
• There's bloody or pus-like discharge
• Your dog has recurring infections (may need allergy testing)
• You notice hearing changes

Keep those ears clean and healthy. Book a groom and we'll include a thorough ear cleaning!