Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Dog's ear swollen from rubber bands overnight. What should I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Female | unspayed | 5 months and 29 days old | 8 lbs

So my little sister put rubber bands around my dogs ear and i didnt notice until the next day I took off the rubber bands and her ears are very swollen

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

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

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 20th, 2018

Hi there and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to address your concern. Judging from the photos you provided, there is nothing concerning that I can see. The swelling may take a day or two to come down completely. If it does not or you notice any darkened areas of the ears that are almost dark purple or black, I would recommend having Mis examined right away by a veterinarian. For now, I would just monitor the ears for swelling and discoloration. I hope this helps guide you in the right direction. Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns and I would be more than happy to help you further. Please take the time to mark this question as helpful or not as it helps us to improve on the quality of our answers to other pet owners. Thank you kindly!

Vote icon

4Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Ana M, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Thank you for submitting your question regarding Mis. I am so sorry this happened. I would start by gently massaging her ears. The swelling should resolve. However, if her ears are extremely painful or you notice them turning dark or black in color, she will need to see her veterinarian right away. If the swelling is resolving, but she seems uncomfortable, then I would still take her to be seen. She may benefit from an anti-inflammatory pain medication. I hope this information helps!

    Vote icon

    4Pet 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
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
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 pet's ear mite treatment isn't working. What else could it be?
Pet still itching after treatment? A Petco vet clarifies it may not be ear mites. Discover effective solutions like Revolution or consulting an exotic vet.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my pet's swollen lump with green patches not getting better?
Is your pet's swollen, green-patched infection still bothering them after treatment? A certified veterinarian discusses proper diagnosis methods like biopsy and FNA.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Dog licking paws, fur loss, and jaw wound: Could it be allergies?
Is your Shih-Tzu crossbreed biting his feet, losing fur, or has a wound? A trusted vet explains these classic allergy signs and advises on treatments like Apoquel or medicated shampoo.
Updated on September 23, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

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

Book Now

Sponsored