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My dog has an ear infection. When should I see a vet for treatment?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Lhasa Apso | Female | spayed | 6 years and 8 months old | 12 lbs

My dog has an ear infection what can I use to help it clear up? I noticed it 2 days ago and cleaned it with some vinegar and water

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Ana M, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on September 29th, 2020

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Bella. I recommend that she sees her veterinarian. I agree that her ear is likely infected. The veterinarian will examine her including inspecting the ear canals with a special instrument known as an otoscope. A sample will be taken from each ear canal to evaluate under the microscope. This will confirm an infection and determine the type. For example, she could have a yeast or bacterial infection or a combination of both. In other cases, ear mites are possible. Based on these results, appropriate treatment can be started. An ear cleaner is usually commonly used to cleanse and dry the canal. Then a medication is applied to treat the infection. Ear infections are painful and require prompt treatment. If left untreated, chronic changes can result that will predispose her to future problems. I hope this information helps!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Emily Fukuzato, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on July 27th, 2017
Hi, I am sorry to hear that Bella has a painful ear. I do not know how long or how frequently you have give the medications you mentioned, but most likely the infection (I am assuming she has an ear infection based on your description) will not clear up until her ear is thoroughly cleaned. You can purchase Virbac EpiOtic Ear cleaner online (i.e. Amazon) and thoroughly clean both of her ears as the first step. However, many times the ear(s) is painful and red. It is inflamed from the infection and her scratching at it. The inflammation could be helped dramatically with a steroid treatment (either injection or oral). I know this would need to be from a veterinarian, but without some sort of steroid steroid the inflammation cannot be reduced.
I understand affording a vet visit may be challenging. You could apply for care credit and/or seek out a low cost clinic. Any veterinary clinic is well equipped to handle an ear infection and get Bella the medication(s) she needs to feel better.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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