VET WARNS DOG AND CAT OWNERS OVER ‘HARMFUL’ TREND AFFECTING PETS’ EARS
Source: BirminghamLive (Extract)
Posted: May 19, 2024
A veterinarian has raised concerns about a dangerous viral trend involving the use of hair bands to tie up dogs’ ears.
Dubbed the ‘#PutItInABun’ challenge, this trend initially gained traction in 2019 and has resurfaced recently, garnering significant attention, including one video amassing 3.8 million views. However, veterinarians are issuing warnings against this practice due to its potential harm to dogs.
Dr. Anna Foreman from Everypaw Pet Insurance cautioned, stating: “Restraining a dog’s ears in such a manner is highly unnatural and can cause discomfort, especially if fastened with unsuitable, thin elastic hair ties. This practice risks pulling on the hairs and injuring the delicate skin of the pinnae, the outer ear.”
She further explained, “For dogs with floppy ears, if they are not typically susceptible to ear infections, manipulating their ears in this manner may disrupt the ear’s naturally stable environment, potentially increasing the risk of infection.” Continuing, she emphasized, “Cats are particularly susceptible to stress-related ailments like cystitis and dermatitis.”
Additionally, she highlighted, “Subjecting them to such actions can not only distress them but also precipitate potentially life-threatening medical conditions… Exposing their ear canal, especially for prolonged durations, can render these dogs more vulnerable to foreign objects such as grass seeds.”
The veterinarian continued her cautionary message to pet owners nationwide, stating, “Dogs with heavy, floppy ears are inherently susceptible to aural foreign bodies. However, restraining their ears does not mitigate this risk; instead, thorough examination of the ears after walks is advised.”
Further emphasizing, she noted, “For dogs with such ears not prone to infections, securing their ears may actually elevate the risk of infection by disrupting the ear’s established equilibrium.” Despite its widespread circulation on TikTok, the viral challenge’s prevalence will hopefully diminish as awareness of its dangers’ spreads.
