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My senior dog has an ear hematoma. Can it be treated without surgery?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Beagle | Male | unneutered | 12 years and 6 months old | 26 lbs

My beagle has a hematoma in his ear flap. No signs of ear infections whatsoever. Believe it's from my lab grabbing his ears when they play around. He is 12 years old and I really dont think he would do well with surgery. Am I safe to leave it besides the esthetic look of the ear.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Rodrigo Roca, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on November 6th, 2018

Hello, I am sorry to hear about Sprocket. Hematomas form secondary to trauma to the blood vessels in the ear - sometimes due to head shaking secondary to ear infections, or rough play. Hematomas are quite uncomfortable due to the swelling present and if untreated can progress. If this is the first time Sprocket has had a hematoma, your veterinarian may be able to treat it more basically, without a full surgical procedure. They may be able to drain the hematoma under sedation. I would recommend having Sprocket seen by your veterinarian so that they can examine the ear and discuss possible treatment options. Hope this helps, good luck!

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