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My dog has a red, crusty ear. Is it safe to treat before the vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Male | neutered | 1 year and 1 month old | 10 lbs

My 1 yr old chihuahua with no prior hx of ear problems has inflammed left ear flap with what looks to be crust in the folds, redder towards to opending of the ear...not at the tip of ear. Dog is not showing signs of dicomfort such as shaking head or scrating ear. Is Is it safe to treat with ear wash and otomax 7.5mg prior to vet visit, which may take a week to get him in.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Rodrigo Roca, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 4th, 2018

Hello, these medications may be safe to use in dogs with ear infections. It sounds like Fred may have an ear hematoma which means there is a pocket of blood within the ear. This likely requires draining and bandaging to resolve, although, in severe cases they may need surgery as well. You may instill these medications into his ear, although if you don't think he has an infection, then he may not need them. Ideally, Fred should be seen sooner rather than later. Hope this helps and best of luck.

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