Chronic ear problems

[BaileyP]

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Hi Just after some advice please. My dog is an 11yr old shih Tzu and has had that many ear infections he now has a lot of scar tissue. They swell that bad now the vet wont put any ear drops in as they cant check their isn't a burst ear drum. They will only treat with antibiotics and steroids which never clear the infections. A swab came back clear which cannot be right. As there is lots of puss and the smell is terrible. The vet has said we now need to be referred to a specialist as there is very little they can do. He is currently on Atopica 25mg one every other day for dermatitis and allergies. They said he could need an operation to widen his ear canals. Any advice really appreciated. Thank you

 

[JoanneF]

Poor lad, ear infections are painful. To be honest though, if your vet is reluctant to try drops in case the drum is burst, whatever we might suggest would pose the same risks. I hope the specialist can do something for him.

 

[Kara 1]

I would definitely see a specialist. ..ears can be so painful. ...

 

[Violet Turner]

Would definatly see a specialist for ears. Veterinary ENT Referrals - VetIndex

 

[merlina]

It sounds as though surgery may be needed- good luck - poor little thing!

 

[leashedForLife]

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I know surgery sounds extreme & scary, but opening his ear canal to the side of his head vs in its normal position upwards, should permanently relieve him of the frequent pain of infections.
For the rest of his life, although he won’t hear via that ear, his ear will be pain-free.

That’s a huge relief, not only eliminating the pain & pressure, but the risk of brain & bloodborne infections, too. It’s all too easy for ear infections to get into the skull, spine, or bloodstream.

I would see the specialist, & if s/he proposes a new ear canal, go for it. It will change the dog’s life in good ways, IME.

- terry

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