Question:
Hello... I have a couple of questions about my 2 yr old Pit Bull. He has just recently been shaking his head and rubbing at his right ear. This morning I notice there is some dried seroussanguinous fluid coming from it. It is also mush warmer than other ear. Does this sound like a typical ear infection or possible foreign body imbedded in it. He doesn't want me to mess with it much, but I thought I'd try to clean it out today. Is there any OTC rinses I should get? No vets open today.
Also, he is very skinny. He eats like a horse and has tons of energy. My other two dogs are slightly overweight, but I can't keep this ones ribs from sticking out. Stools appear normal. No vomiting. We wormed him 3 months ago, didn't seem to make much difference. I'd appreciate all and any suggestions! Thanks so much! Jill

Answer:
There's really nothing over the counter for ear infections that's effective. You can get OTC ear cleaner, which would help if the ear is just dirty, but wouldn't cure an infection. I use a natural, alcohol-free cleaner when I clean my dog's ears, witch hazel solution can work for general cleaning, and it is soothing too.

We use tresaderm for ear infections usually, prescribed by the vet, not available OTC. Of course if it is a foreign body, the vet will have to remove it, and if it is something like a foxtail embedded, it will continue to work its way into the ear until it is removed, and can cause serious problems. I would recommend getting the ear checked by a vet as soon as possible.

As for the weight, what are you feeding? Did you have a stool sample run? I would as a precaution, some worms, such as whipworms, are not killed by normal dewormers.

A lot of times with the pitbulls, they do better on certain foods than others. I've had success with putting them on fish-based foods, and/or supplementing with salmon oil. It's helped the weight and coat condition of quite a few pitbulls I've worked with. Pitbulls as a breed seem less likely to tolerate poor quality foods and foods with a lot of grains.

Answer:
Thank you so much! I haven't owned a pit before until 2 years ago, but we haven't really had any problems until now. I will call the DVM in the AM and make appt. I appreciate the diet advice, too. My husband and I were talking this AM about him. While we're gone during the day, our 3 dogs are kenneled and fed in our garage. We're wondering if our Lab/Akita mix is taking over his food after we disappear. She has put on a few pounds lately. We'll try feeding them separate before we leave for the day to see if that helps, too.
Thanks again for your time and making my first experience here a good one!

Answer:
Oh it's quite possible the other dog is eating all the pitbull's food, feeding them separate, or watching to make sure they are both eating is a good idea.

I hope your doggy's ear feels better soon!

I think pitbulls are wonderful, once you know one, you'll always love them.

Answer:
You know, it's funny. Bailey (lab/Akita with a lab personality) is 12 years old and showing her age, but she still rules the roost. I was off of work today, so I did feed them all separately, and Lucius (pit) gobbled it all up within 2 minutes. Maybe he was worried she'd be back in the house soon! Anyway, it's great to hear from a caring soul who is a fan of Pit Bulls. Our county just passed the Ban-the-Pit-Bull Bandwagon, so it looks like more money out of our pockets to allow him to live here. Oh well, it's just money and he is our family. He is so worth it.
Thanks again for your kind words! It really means a lot.

Jill

Answer:
Jeez, pit bull bans in Idaho too? At least you are still allowed to keep him.

I'm always so afraid that my county will ban them and I won't be able to adopt them out anymore....but so far so good.

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