Zoe's Ears

[Marilyn]

My little Zoe has had ear problems since Aug. '08. We have taken her to the vet several times. Our vet clinic has three vets and she's seen each of them about her ears. All have said that there is nothing wrong. She may have a little allergy or something. They have given her steroid shots, steroid ear drops and antibiotic ear drops. We've spent over $500, and her ears are no better. They told us to use Benedryl twice a day. The steroid shot did help for about a week and the drops help when we use them, but you aren't supposed to use them every day. The Benedryl didn't seem to do a thing. Right now we are using the drops every day. When we run out, we call the vet and ask for more. At first they said we had to see the vet first and I said no, all three tell us the same thing, that there is nothing wrong, give us some drops and charge $150. We can get a bottle of the drops for about $20.

Her ears itch, especially the left one, and she has scratching fits and cries out like they really hurt.

Now the hair on her back is falling out, and short black hair is growing in it's place. Chase had this same thing happen to his hair when he had kidney problems and almost died. We think the hair loss is due to stress. So Zoe must be really stressed. This ear issue has definitely affected her personality.

I've tried ear cleaning produces from PetSmart, made drops from vinegar and rubbing alcohol.

I'm posting in case anyone has experienced anything like this and has any ideas. A new vet clinic opened nearby recently, I've thought of going and getting yet another opinion. I've also thought of going to a feed store that carries veteranary itmes and ask them if they have any ideas.

Don't know what to do. My poor baby needs help and the vets aren't solving the problem. I feel like Haley with Micah's ear issues. I know Zoe is just a dog, so it's not the same thing as if she were my child, but really wish we could find a long term solution.

I would post on YorkieTalk, and have searched threads over there. But not sure anyone would have any real constructive input. Your thoughts?