How do you give the perfect lickout?

Giving a perfect lickout requires patience, care, and proper technique. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you enhance your lickout skills:

1. Preparation:

- Start by ensuring that your hands are clean and dry. Wash your hands thoroughly before handling the animals.

2. Approach:

- Choose a comfortable position for your pet, either on a table or on your lap. Gently lift the animal and avoid any sudden movements.

3. Locate the Ears:

- Identify the base of your pet's ears. You'll find a triangular-shaped flap between the ear canal and the skull called the "pinna."

4. Begin the Lickout:

- Use your forefinger and middle finger to gently hold the pinna.

- Apply a small amount of ear cleaner to your pet's ear canal using an appropriate applicator.

- Allow your pet to shake its head if it wishes.

5. Cleaning the Pinna:

- Use cotton pads or cotton balls to carefully wipe the outer surface of the ear, called the "pinna."

- Start from the base of the ear and work your way outward, gently removing dirt and debris.

- Be careful not to insert the cotton too deeply into the ear canal.

6. Cleaning the Ear Canal:

- Use a fresh cotton pad or cotton ball to clean inside the ear canal.

- Gently insert the cotton into the canal without applying excessive pressure.

- Rotate the cotton while withdrawing it to ensure thorough cleaning.

7. Remove Excess Cleaner:

- Use a clean cotton pad to wipe away any remaining ear cleaner from around the ear canal and the pinna.

- Ensure the area is dry to prevent moisture from being trapped inside.

8. Repeat for the Other Ear:

- Repeat the cleaning process on the other ear, using separate cotton pads or cotton balls for each ear.

9. Offer a Treat:

- After completing the lickout, offer your pet a treat as a reward for their good behavior.

Additional Tips:

- If your pet shows discomfort or resistance, stop the process and seek professional advice from a veterinarian.

- Avoid using sharp or pointy objects near your pet's ears.

- Only use pet-friendly ear cleaning solutions recommended by your veterinarian.

- For pets with long, floppy ears, carefully lift and clean the ear while holding it upright to prevent trapping moisture inside.

- Regular lickouts can help maintain ear hygiene and prevent ear infections.

Remember that every pet is different, so it's essential to be gentle and patient during the lickout process. If you're unsure about any steps or notice signs of discomfort, consult with a qualified veterinarian.