Expert: Dr. Louis N. Gotthelf - 11/30/2005

Question
Hi,
I have two goat guard dogs that are very shy of people.  I live pretty far out in the country, and it is almost impossible to get them into a trailer without traumatizing them (and us).  Both dogs continually shake their heads, and one I think has an infection in her ear.  I have used the over the counter ear mite medicine and it doesn't seem to do anything.  I have antibiotic that we use on the goats.  Would that be safe to use on the dog, and if so how much?  Thank you for any help you can give.


Answer
I really cannot tell you what to use in the ear without knowing what is in the ear.  I would recommend washing the ear out with a 50:50 mixture of vinegar and water twice a day.  That will disinfect the ear, but if there is a tumor or an ulcer, or even a ruptured eardrum, it will not help.  The ears need to be examined by the vet to be properly treated.  If you cannot get her into a car, some vets will let you get some tranquilizer tablets to give 2 hours before your vet appointment.  Ask your vet about that.