Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My dog has an ear infection. What OTC can I use until I get home?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Male | neutered | 7 years and 10 months old | 68 lbs

Ear infection ( he has a chronic condition) but I am away from home and his Vet. I have cleaned his ear (greasy brown discharge). I am looking for over the counter med that will help him until Thur when I can get home.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Angela Hinton, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 28th, 2018

Hello there! I am sorry to hear Gibbs suffers from chronic ear infections. I know how frustrating that can be for a pet owner. Zymox would be my over the counter choice for an ear solution for dogs. If you are able to find it, Zymox Advanced would be even better. Zymox has hydrocortisone in it which will help calm down the inflammation the ears. The Zymox advanced has some added ingredients to help breakdown the biofilm bacteria produce which can slow down their growth. Both products contain the hydrocortisone. Inflammation is what creates all the pain, itchiness and irritation and that is what the cortisone will help take care of and will help Gibbs feel better. But the infection still needs to be treated. The Zymox label states that it is a good alternative to actual ear medications such as antibiotics. While I don't agree with that (most dogs still need a treatment ointment or oral meds in combo with it) I think it would be a good short term alternative for you since you are in a bind right now. I see that you are in the UK and I'm not sure how readily available Zymox is. If you are unable to find this brand I would look for something similar that has hydrocortisone in it. IF you still can't find that then I would just get an over the counter ear cleanser and use that for now. At least getting some of the gunk out will help him. And then once you are home you can get him to his vet for treatment. I hope you find this information helpful. I wish you and Gibbs all the best!

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By C. Rathjens, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    I would recommend getting a standard ear cleaner from a pet store or Amazon. The brand that I'm most familiar with is called Ketoseb ear flush. Wash Gibbs ears twice a day with us until you can get him to a vet. It may make diagnosis of the issue ( yeast vs bacteria) harder, but will help keep him semi comfortable. Good luck!

    Vote icon

    0Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?
Is your mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and pussy? Dr. Melanie, a certified vet, discusses severe eye issues like infection or abscess, urging an immediate visit.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has red spots all over. What's causing them and what to do?
See red spots on your pet? A certified Petco vet discusses common causes like allergies, infections, or mites, guiding you on diagnosis and treatment options.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet keeps scratching its ear. What's causing this problem?
Is your pet scratching their ear often? A certified Petco veterinarian explains common causes like otitis or infection and how to identify the problem.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My small pet is limping and can't bear weight. Should I see a vet?
Is your pet limping and can't bear weight? A certified vet explains why a suspected fracture needs immediate diagnosis and safe pain relief. Get expert guidance.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My dwarf hamster has a shut eye and is limping. What should I do?
Is your dwarf hamster struggling with eye issues or limping? A trusted vet offers expert guidance on symptoms and crucial next steps for comfort and care.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored