Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

My dog's ears are bleeding from flies. What OTC remedies can I use?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed

My poor dog's ears are getting eaten by flies really bad. She's bleeding and I'm not sure what to buy or how to help her. I can't bring her inside but I don't want to put something on it based on a Google search and it makes her worse. Can you give me some advice on anything over the counter?

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on June 18th, 2018

Poor Coco! I would have her seen by a vet, as that ear looks bad and possibly infected. I think it needs veterinary treatment to heal correctly. I'd make an appointment for her in the morning. After her eat is treated by a vet, there are a few things you can try to help keep the flies off her ears. You can use some petroleum jelly on the outside of the ear (do not get any down the ear canal) to keep them from biting. You can use a spray with the active botanical ingredient Pyrethrum, you may find one at a pet store. Keep your yard cleaned, pick up all the dog feces daily, make sure her food and water bowls are kept clean, and don't let your garbage overflow to cut down on the number of flies in your yard. Best of luck, I hope this helps!

Vote icon

2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

image
Have A Vet Question?

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

Sponsored