Expert: Dr. Louis N. Gotthelf - 8/24/2006

Question
My husband's is 8 months old and we have noticed that she has the tips of her ears that are infected and there are flies swarming around them. not sure if they are decaying, we really can't afford to take our dog to the vet as we have only one income.  Could you recommend something (suave) to put on her ears.  She is part wolf and husky.  

Answer
This is called fly strike.  The biting flies open the skin and the ear tips get a scab on it.  You can use any type of insect repellant on the ears to keep the flies away.  For the wounds, wash the ears twice a daywith soap and water before applying the insect repellant.