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Old May 19th, 2010, 11:02 AM
Kittysnot Kittysnot is offline
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Question Ear infections

My dog Gabe, a 7yr old yellow lab gets chronic ear infections. He has had antibiotics and ear drops. The infection always returns. Anyone have any advice, or similar problem?
Thanks, Kittysnot
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Old May 19th, 2010, 11:15 AM
BenMax BenMax is offline
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I am the queen of doggie ear infections. This breed in particular (along with cockers and goldens) is susceptible to these ailments. The best advice is through your vet. I have however had dogs with chronic ear infections that required weekly cleaning with vet prescribed cleaner and ear drops such as Otomax or Baytril (depending on the gravity of the infection).

Do not use over the counter or home made brews for cleaner. Consult your vet and they will advise what to clean with and how often depending on the condition of the ear, and the type of ear infection.

Ear infections cause many other conditions such as skin problems, heart problems etc. It is important to have a proper diagnosis and how to treat going forward.

Best of luck to you.

PS - sorry for my spelling...I am horrible and too lazy to go to the dictionary.
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Old May 19th, 2010, 08:46 PM
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kungfuMao kungfuMao is offline
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Could it be a food allergy?
I really don't know but it could be...



Hope something useful comes along!
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  #4  
Old May 21st, 2010, 04:40 PM
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2sheltiesmom 2sheltiesmom is offline
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Lightbulb Ear infections

We have been through this as well with our male Sheltie who is only turning 5next month. He used to do Agility for fun and then suddenly was scared and refused to go through the tire, and he lost his balance. He got his first infection nearly 2 years ago and was given so much treatment; antibiotics, steroids, ear flushing, cleaning, drops... even a surgical procedure. They tested his heart, then discovered collapsed trachea, then gave theophylline as bronchiodilator, and it turns out he has ALLERGIES!
We now have him on vegetarian food from the vet and Sulcrate (acidic tummy trouble too) and Hydroxyzine which is an antihistamine.: He is doing very well now but we are going to take him to a Specialist to make sure he stays well.
Good luck and let us know how your baby is doing.
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Old May 21st, 2010, 08:47 PM
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Dr Lee Dr Lee is offline
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Over 70 percent of recurrent and chronic ear infections are allergy based. Until the underlying allergy is addressed, the opportunistic bacteria and/or yeast will just recur and recur and recur.

Some are environmental, some are food allergy, some are both.

I would work up your dog for probable allergies with either your veterinarian or with a veterinary dermatologist. Many dogs can also respond to food trials (if primary food allergy) or medications like modified cyclosporine (brand name Atopica). For more mild cases Omega 3 Fatty acids and antihistamines (benadryl or other types) can help manage allergies.

Here is a link to my website that goes over allergy options in greater detail: ALLERGIES.

Hope that helps.
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