Welcome to a revolutionary development in the care of puppies' cropped ears. The traditional method of using tape to ensure ears stand properly after cropping is being replaced by a more innovative, safer, and painless method: the No Tape Ear Standing Method utilizing mole foam. This pioneering technique was shared by Mary Jane Kurtz and reprinted courtesy of DPCA Pipeline, offering a solution to common issues faced by breeders and pet owners aiming to maintain the aesthetic and functional form of certain dog breeds' ears.
The Process and Benefits of Mole Foam for Ear Standing
Preparing for the Mole Foam Application
The No Tape Ear Standing Method employs simple household materials and has garnered fantastic results. To apply this method, you'll need some basic supplies, including Dr. Scholl's MOLEFOAM, surgical glue, scissors, a ruler, and a pen. Here's how to prepare:
- Clean the puppy's ears thoroughly, using peroxide for newly cropped ears or alcohol for those that have healed.
- One square of MOLEFOAM will be adequate for two puppies. Measure and slice the foam as instructed for optimal fit.
- Retain the plastic backing on until all cutting is finished and you're ready to insert the stays into the ears.
Applying the Mole Foam
Gluing on the mole foam follows a precise sequence. Every step must be executed with care:
- Apply a liberal amount of glue onto the prepared mole foam, and similarly onto the inner surface of the puppy’s ear.
- Coordinate the timing for the glue application per the instructions and quickly adjust the mole foam stay within the puppy's ear, ensuring a snug fit.
- Gently press and conform the mole foam to stick properly inside the ear without obstructing airflow or causing discomfort to the puppy.
The Advantages Over Traditional Taping
The benefits of using the mole foam method over tape are profound:
- Puppies experience a painless, secure method of ear standing, which is less likely to be disrupted by normal play and activity.
- The risk of infection is notably reduced as the ears remain well-ventilated.
- The mole foam tends to fall out naturally after about ten days, propelled by the natural oils in a puppy's ears, without the need for manual removal.
Mole Foam: A Game-Changer in Canine Ear Cropping Aftercare
With the No Tape Ear Standing Method, complications associated with traditional taping methods, such as crimps, crinkles, or taping too tightly leading to cuts and gouges, are entirely avoided. This approach is safe, simple, and allows for the ear's natural healing process without the undue stress on the puppy.
Combining the No Tape Method with Travel
For pet owners who love to travel with their companions, managing aftercare for cropped ears on the go can be daunting. The mole foam method not only simplifies the ear posting process, but it also offers a level of convenience and ease that fits perfectly with the dynamic lifestyle of traveling. With this method, puppies can continue their ear healing process seamlessly while you're on the move, ensuring they look their best, whether on the road or in the show ring.