Ear Hematomas

Question
Hi,
My dog had surgery for an Ear Hematomas 3 weeks ago, he has stitches in his ear and some plastic tubing either side of the ear. However today, the ear has swollen again and it has started to bleed around the wound, he is in a bit of pain. I was just wondering why this would have happened. He has not been shaking or scratching the ear in any way

Answer

Hi Sandra,

It sounds like the drain tube may be clogged. You should contact your veterinarian. The solution may be something as simple as taking a small needle and un-clogging the tube. DO call your veterinarian.

Until your vet advises you of what to do next, apply cold compresses to your dog's ear. Use a therapeutic cold pack, or just a clean rag soaked in ice water. Apply for 10 to 15 minutes at a time, re-soaking the rag as necessary. Do not use ice directly, as it is too cold.

Best of luck,
Patti