Badly inflamed ear

I have just taken on a rescued terrier. He has been passed from pillar to post. One ear looks terrible and he shakes his head frequently. Is there anything I can do about it without having to remortgage my house?

Neil says: That certainly is a chronically inflamed ear. The lining of the ear canal has thickened so much that it is virtually closed, reducing air flow and compounding the situation. As it is, it would probably be impossible to visualise the ear drum. There may be hope, however, as it is likely that the ear is so awful as a result of neglect rather than failure of treatment.

It is worth trying long-term use of appropriate ear drops — see your vet — along with steroid in oral form. The drops do not need to be applied in great quantity but need to be used so as to coat as much of the ear canal as possible. Again, your vet can advise you.

If, after several weeks, you feel you are getting nowhere, surgical intervention to remove the ear canal could be indicated. But then you might have to speak to your bank manager. As I think you realise, you must do something. You cannot leave the poor chap with an ear like that. Good luck and persevere.