Expert: Dr. Louis N. Gotthelf - 3/21/2010

Question
My 7 year old Brittany has chronically dirty ears with a darkish brown substance. I wondered if she could have ear mites? She also has periodic drippy eyes also seems brownish on her white fir. My husband does all the pet cleaning and has ring worm on his hands (gets it every spring) in several places and is being treated by MD. Is this from the dog? She has no visible lesions on her. Thanks, Sherry

Answer
I doubt that your husband is getting anything from the dog.  Second. although it could be ear mites, it is probably some type of ear infection.  You should have your vet analyze the goo in the ears to see if it is a bacterial or a yeast infection.  Then appropriate medication can be put in to the ears to help stop the secretions.