Otitis and the Flop-Earred Dog

Dogs, like Labrador Retrievers, who have ears that flop (as opposed to dogs, like German Shepherds, who have ears that stand up) have a tendency to have ear infections. In particular, in warm, humid climates (like the SE of the USA), they are more likely to develop infections than in cool, dry climes.

So, true to the possibilities, Emmy started scratching her ears and shaking her head. And she was simply miserable. I upped my cleansing of her ears to twice a day, some days, but once a day at all times instead of letting a day or so go by, but the ear secretions just got worse and worse. So, off to the vet we went! It was time for her Bordatella vaccine and her Lyme vaccine anyway.

Her weight was 55# (good weight). The vet and his staff were all charmed by Emmy – as usual!

Testing demonstrated she has a yeast infection – in both ears. Poor little girl! Itchy ears! So it’s time for the Momentamax, again. 10 – 14 days – every day without fail. I’m obsessive enough about Emmy that there will be no problem with THAT!!

I use not only my homemade cleansing solution (1/4 rubbing alcohol, 1/4 white vinegar, 1/2 water) but a commercial cleansing agent recommended by the vet. The combination worked well throughout the winter and early spring, but now she needs something more. So we go to using medication along with the cleaners. Once the infection is cleared up, I’ll start cleaning her ears twice a day every day.

Poor little girl! I feel so bad about this!