Expert: Dr. Louis N. Gotthelf - 3/25/2006

Question
I am a Vet assistant, but working in the field of pet grooming at this time. I see many dogs come in with ear problems most of them are dogs that have hair in the ear. I sujested plucking the hair to alow  vetalatin and help keep the inner ear dry. My boss and co-workers said no, that it causes hymatoma in the ear. I do not know of this. is this true? And what is better to prevent ear infection?  I personally believe plucking would be best.
Please help,
Concerned pet groomer

Answer
Plucking creates trauma and inflammation to the ear canal, which can lead to infection.  If the dog's ears are normal, leave them alone.  If you must pluck out the hair because it is matted, then have some type of cortisone creme available to put into the ear afterwards.