Expert: Dr. Louis N. Gotthelf - 10/17/2011

Question
My dog was had a severe middle ear infection which was pseudomonis. He was operated on to take out the upper ear canal and clean the bulla. He was on baytrill before the operation 2-10 days scripts . At the operation there was no growth to bacteria. When taking out the stitches the bacteria is back  What are the chances of getting rid of this infection?

Answer
Using an antibiotic systemically in ear disease is not as good as using it topically.  If your dog is having pseudomonas middle ear infections, then the middle ear needs to be flushed and infused with an antibiotic that will kill pseudomonas.  I would not use Baytril again for this infection because it is probably already resistant.  This may need to be repeated weekly for a few weeks.  If that does not get rid of the infection, then a total ear canal ablation is usually the answer.