Why does my dog's ear fluid sac keep refilling after draining?

Question

My dog has a sac of what appears to be lymph in one of his ears lobes - the human equivalent is the pinna, but I don't know what you call it in dogs - the floppy part. This is a golden retriever. My wife is an RN so we are not entirely devoid of medical knowledge. I have inserted a needle into it and drained it twice, but the pocket of fluid keeps refilling. Blood is minimal, and he only seems to be pain when the needle is sticking him. What can I do to keep it from refilling with more lymph? Pet's info: Dog | Golden Retriever | Male | unneutered | 9 years and 7 months old | 65 lbs

Sara Farmer, DVM · Accepted Answer

It's called the pinna in a dog as well! I'm wondering if you're describing an aural hematoma - this is where fluid and blood collects between the cartilage and skin of the pinnae and causes swelling. It is often triggered by something that causes a dog to shake its head or scratch the ear with ear infections being most common. It can be difficult to treat, and draining is usually temporary. I'd recommend having Stevo examined by a vet - they can determine what's going on and start treatment. An aural hematoma sometimes needs to be treated surgically, or sometimes starting corticosteroids and treating the ear infection can be successful.

Why does my dog's ear fluid sac keep refilling after draining?

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