Expert: Dr. Louis N. Gotthelf - 12/12/2005

Question
Hello,

My 9 year old Springer Spaniel has had an ear infection for several months.   I've seen two veterinarians and have spent about $2,000.00 having my pet's ear treated.   He still has the ear infection and I'm at a loss as to how to proceed.

Some of the medications we've used include:

Nolva-Cleanse
Synotic Otic Solution
Baytril 136 mg
Gentocin Otic Solution
Baytril Otic 15 ml
Otomax
Clavamox
(right now he has two Baytril and one Clavamox 375 mg twice a day, plus the ear wash and Baytril Otic drops)

Can you please suggest something?   I'd really appreciate it.

Thank You,

Marilyn

Answer
Most dogs get ear infections because of an underlying skin problem like allergies to foods or pollens.  If the vet hasn't looked for the underlying cause and treated it, putting stuff in the ear only lasts for a short time. Do you know what type of infection is present in the ear? Has the dog been examined under anesthesia to see the eardrums are ruptured?  After 6 weeks of an ear infection, that usually happens. I would recommend that you call around and find a vet that has a video otoscope so that a proper examination of the ear canal can be done.