#1
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Ear Infection Flaring Up at Night?
I have a Black Lab, Tucker, who we have been battling ear infections for almost 2 years now. We've made the switch from disgusting "regular" dog food i.e. corn, wheat, beef, etc, etc. and now feed Nature's Recipe either Fish & Potato, Lamb & Rice, or Vegetarian. He does not get anything with wheat in it. Anyway, allergies have flared up since about September i.e. itchy face, licking, head shaking. We've done antibiotics, ear drops, and steroids. Today, he was fine ALL DAY. We went to bed like usual, he slept until about 1:30 am and then woke up, panting, then shaking his head. Cleaned out his ears with VET Solutions and then put in Momentamax drops. I have also used Animax ointment for the ear infections. I guess my question is, has anyone else seen a flare up of the ear infection only at night? Also, I have been thinking about giving some supplements i.e. Omega 3 & 6, but wanted to know what other people thought about it. Thank you!
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#2
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I fortunately haven't experienced any ear issues with my dogs (knock on wood) but it almost sounds like it's a problem with his bedding or where he sleeps at night.
I'm not sure how common it is for dogs to have such severe chronic ear issues that are not related to diet or some type of sensitivity to something. Does he sleep in the same place every night? Does he go during the place he sleeps during the daytime for prolonged periods of time? Could it be something like the plastic of a crate, laundry detergent used on his bedding etc? You've done all the right things to help prevent recurring ear issues, most importantly cutting out grains. Is barley an ingredient NRs? Is mites a possbility? You have a mind boggler on your hands! I hope someone here might be able to give you a better idea then I. ETA - Could the overuse of ear treatments cause the slightest bacteria/dust/anything in the ear to react furiously? Similar to a child kept in a sterile environment getting violently ill from sucking a rock? (Do not ask where I got that analogy from!) Last edited by K9 Love; November 11th, 2008 at 04:13 AM. |
#3
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Chronic ear infections are often related to allergies and grains are one of the worst causes. I would switch your dog from Nature's Variety to a grain free kibble. There are several brands on the market but my first choice is Orijen.
Salmon oil would be a good supplement to add. If the brand you buy doesn't contain vitamin e then add a capsule yourself 2 to 3 times a week. Apple cider vinegar is also beneficial to add. Get the kind that has the "mother" added.....Bragg's is one brand available at most health food stores. One tablespoon added to food daily for dogs over 50lb. |
#4
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I'm not for sure about Barley being an ingredient, but for some reason I'm thinking that it is. I'll have to try to find a food that doesn't have it and is completely grain free! As far as the bedding, he sleeps with us. I use the same detergent on EVERYTHING! He stayed with my parents over the weekend and my Mom mentioned the flare ups at night...I thought she was crazy! But, I found out for myself this AM!
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#5
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If you can't find Orijen where you live then Nature's Variety and EVO are other good choices.
Good luck and keep us posted. |
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