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› articles by michael goldberg, dvm
Ear Infections Q: My deaf and blind cocker spaniel has ear infections that respond to oral and topical antibiotics but return quickly when the antibiotics are finished. Is there anything I can do? A: Unfortunately this is a common problem for this breed. There are two common reasons why this may occur. There may be an underlying allergy either to food or to inhaled substances which will set up an immune response by the body and allow secondary invaders such as bacteria or yeast to colonize on the skin (including the ears). The other reason is that cocker spaniels tend to have long narrow ear canals with heavy ear flaps that may reduce the air flow into the canal thus possibly creating a higher moist environment. The way I approach these cases is to attempt to begin a raw diet. These are commercially available and if there is a food sensitivity, this alone may help. Better pet stores tend to carry an array of raw diets and the staff are usually quite knowledgeable as to starting this type of diet. I often begin the dogs on digestive enzyme supplements as well to aid in the digestion of the raw food, especially if they are older pets. Two tests that are often overlooked are: 1. culture of the ear canal to make sure the type of medicine is the correct one for the bacteria involved, and 2. have your dog checked for thyroid abnormalities as often they may contribute to underlying chronic skin disease. There is a solution that I make up called Mkillip's solution that I use for ears in those cases that are refractory to antibiotics or ear solutions. This often will give long term relief to infected ears but must be used diligently for often long periods of time. Overall, this condition is "chronic disease" in homeopathic terms and really should be treated on a constitutional basis with an experienced homeopathic veterinarian. I have had decent success when this approach is used though it is sometimes a long process. Homeopathic remedies such as Calcarea, Sulphur, Silicea, and Hepar Sulph have often been very useful in my hands, though I stress that you should look for a veterinary homeopath. If you wish to go this route, go to www.theavh.org and scan the list of vets in your area. Read more Articles by Michael Goldberg, DVM... |
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vancouver animal wellness hospital Michael Goldberg, DVM; Erik Irre, DVM 105 e. broadway, vancouver, bc v5t 1w1 / phone: 604.738.4664 / fax: 604.738.4694 Hours of Operation: Monday, Thursday & Friday: 9am - 6pm, Tuesday & Wednesday: 9am - 7pm, Saturday: 9am - 5pm © Copyright 2004-2006. vancouver animal wellness hospital. All rights reserved. › Contact Us › Privacy Policy › Sitemap › Home |