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My dog's ear is swollen and draining, can I give amoxicillin?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Bullmastiff | Male | neutered | 6 years and 6 months old | 193 lbs

I have a 7 year old English mastiff who's ear swelled up 2 days ago. It is draining and smells. I'm pretty sure there is an infection in there but I was told what he has is a hematoma. I have 500 mg amoxicillins will it hurt if I give him them. I am currently unemployed and do not have any money to take him to the vet.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on May 5th, 2019

Poor Moose! Unfortunately, it's illegal for us to advise you to give any prescription medication to your dog without first doing a physical exam - so I can't advise you to give the amoxicillin. I can tell you, however, that it would be extremely unlikely to help in this case. Ear infections need to be treated with topical medications that go in the ear canal, because this area has a very poor blood supply - so oral antibiotics generally don't do much. The hematoma will either need to be surgically drained, or left alone to resolve on its own over the next few weeks. I'm afraid he does need to see a veterinarian for his ear infection, so I would try to find a way to take him in when you're able to. If cost is a concern, you can see if there is a low-cost SPCA clinic in your area that could help, or apply online for Care Credit, which is a payment plan accepted by most vet clinics: www.carecredit.com. Usually, there is no reason that an ear infection would need to be an expensive visit, as treatment is usually fairly straightforward.

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