The comments below reflect the personal experiences and opinions of readers and do not represent medical advice or the views of this website. The information shared has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or health condition. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical concerns.
Posted by Daniel W. (Justin, TX) on 03/05/2020 ★★★★★
The best way to combat an aural hematoma is with an Auralsplint. Any other treatment will either allow the hematoma to shrivel down, or worse cause undue wounding to your animal. It is very important to diagnosis the hematoma early, before 6-7 days. After this, the blood will begin to clot, and you will not be able to use an Auralsplint. The Auralsplint works very much like it sounds. It holds the ear in suspension until the animal fixes the problems. Not rocket science, not an invasive and gruesome surgery. Just common sense and some tape and plastic. I make this out to sound easy, and it is.
My golden mix has a swollen left ear lobe. Is arnica gel the best way to apply? what about arnica tablets also in their food. I do not want to go to vet and spend $200 or more if this can really be treated at home. He is in no pain and not even scratching it.
My dog gor his first hematoma about two or maybe three months ago now. We took him to the vet (of which I'll never return to because of the horrible receptionists and rudeness) and had it lanced and a drain placed in it. He had to wear an e-collar for 10 days, then go back to have the drain removed and then wear the collar for another 7 days to make sure it was all healed. It was terrible. There was no room for the collar and it kept needing repaired with duct tape to hold It together (my dog is not calm ever). His hematoma returned last night and I can't stand going to have surgery done to him again. It's too expensive and we have no money to our name. I found some arnica oil at the health store and am wondering how exactly do I applyy It to the ear? How often and should I be doing anything else? He seems to just have itchy ears and I don't know how to stop that. No infection or mites have ever been found, he just scratches.
Posted by Suseeq (Sydney, Australia) on 07/04/2016
Cassandra, the itchiness is from the build up blood. Apply the arnica oil to the ear. Also I would add a bit of tumeric as well. Apply twice per day. Let us know how you go.
I have a 9 yr old spayed BC girl who has an aural hematoma. I just ordered the arnica oil. Is this better than the gel form? She is also itching and scratching, and does not have fleas.
Our dog is 12 and half years old. Gin has the hematoma on her left ear and it has not ruptured. It is like a collection of lquid between the ear skin. She had a large one that was surgically removed. This is at present not a large one.
Can I administer 6C drops of Lachesis at 4 drops in the morning, afternoon and evenings?
Also, would application of Arnica oil on the skin where the swelling is seen, be of help to reduce it? She is old and severely arthritic and takes many joint supplements and Aloe Vera juice and Turmeric chews for the same. We would not like to have her go through another surgery.
The wonderful Theresa from Minneapolis, MN has been helping pet owners and their beloved pets around the world on Earth Clinic since 2013.
About Theresa
Theresa from Minneapolis was born and raised in the inner city, always wishing she had been raised on a farm.
Her love for creatures great and small began at an early age, starting with caterpillars - which continues to this day, along with an interest in all insects and 'creepy crawlies'.
Theresa's interest in pet health started with a bird keeping hobby at age 14, where she learned from another hobbyist that the simple addition of Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) in a bird's drinking water kept fungal infections away; she was able to share this with her avian vet who in turn prescribed it to her own clients; Theresa was surprised to learn that she could teach her vet a thing or two. This important lesson - that each of us can be a teacher - was a turning point for Theresa, and fueled her quest for the knowledge held in lore, and remedies passed by word of mouth. That quest for knowledge continues to this day, as new and old remedies alike are explored. She may not have experience with a particular issue, but she will research it to the best of her ability and share what she finds freely, in the hopes that you can heal or improve your pet's health.
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How To Show Theresa Your Appreciation
If you would like to thank Theresa for her helpful posts, she asks if you would please consider making a donation to one of her favorite local rescue organizations, or by making a donation to help the genius contributor, Ted from Bangkok, recover from his stroke.
If this were my dog I might dose every 2 hours and monitor results to check for progress. I would stop over night, and then perhaps go to your original dosing schedule. You might also consider Arnica Montana for this condition as it typically arises due to trauma. And because this tends to arise from ear conditions inside the ear that causes the dog to scratch and shake the ear, you might look at cleaning the ears very well and frequently and adjusting diet to grain free.
We apply Arinca Gel / Oil on the swelling on the inner side of the flap. We also use aloe vera gel application. We mix a bit of turmeric powder. We are giving her Lachesis 30C at 4 drops each in the morning and evening. Present observation is the swelling stays same size (it has not increased). It has not ruptured. Am considering going to the vet to drain it and continue with the present dosage. As I read in this forum, it could take more time. Am hoping that there is timely recovery.
Posted by Marielina (New York City, New York) on 08/29/2017
Hey, my dog has a small hematoma that is forming. I want to get this treatment as soon as possible. Can you specify the exact treatments you used? Like are you using regular for humans? Or do I have to go to like a pet shop?
how to apply arnica gel to a hematoma; how often and how much...for a 20 pound jack russell terrier that had been drained but has returned...is it safe for digestion by other dogs?... thank you
Hello. My lab is getting these more frequent and I would love to try the arnica oil as the vets bills are getting extreme and not working plus not wanting surgery just yet. How do you go about this? What's the process? Thank you xx
My 14 week old puppy has a hematoma in each ear. I think since birth as her siblings have them as well. How much arnica oil should be applied and how often?
The wonderful Theresa from Minneapolis, MN has been helping pet owners and their beloved pets around the world on Earth Clinic since 2013.
About Theresa
Theresa from Minneapolis was born and raised in the inner city, always wishing she had been raised on a farm.
Her love for creatures great and small began at an early age, starting with caterpillars - which continues to this day, along with an interest in all insects and 'creepy crawlies'.
Theresa's interest in pet health started with a bird keeping hobby at age 14, where she learned from another hobbyist that the simple addition of Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) in a bird's drinking water kept fungal infections away; she was able to share this with her avian vet who in turn prescribed it to her own clients; Theresa was surprised to learn that she could teach her vet a thing or two. This important lesson - that each of us can be a teacher - was a turning point for Theresa, and fueled her quest for the knowledge held in lore, and remedies passed by word of mouth. That quest for knowledge continues to this day, as new and old remedies alike are explored. She may not have experience with a particular issue, but she will research it to the best of her ability and share what she finds freely, in the hopes that you can heal or improve your pet's health.
-----------------------------
How To Show Theresa Your Appreciation
If you would like to thank Theresa for her helpful posts, she asks if you would please consider making a donation to one of her favorite local rescue organizations, or by making a donation to help the genius contributor, Ted from Bangkok, recover from his stroke.
Please google 'aural hematoma dogs' and do an image search to make sure what you are seeing in your puppy and her entire litter are aural hematomas and report back.
Dear Dawna, I can relate! Please read my posts on dealing with several hematomas in my dog. The trick is to keep your dog's ears clean and not let yeast and bacteria build up. You must use a ear solution at least once a week. If you slack off on this as I have learned, your dog is at risk of another hematoma. As soon as your dog scratches at his ear, rinse it out with one of the ear formulas. I haven't had any more hematomas to deal with after staying on top of cleaning his ears out once a week. When necessary, I have also used antibiotic ear drops from the vet (you can also buy enzyme formulas for ears online). Good luck!
I am not aware of any concerns with using arnica for cats, unless the arnica preparation you have has essential oils in it. Essential oils are usually considered too strong for cats.
I would like to try the gel on her ear. She has two hematomas again. Would it take very long for it to work? she is 13 and I don't want to put her through surgery.
How much dose plzz help I am facing same problem...its been more than 2 weeks. I tried sulphur 30x merbromine solution still no response..but once I applied arnica oil it seemed to swell up more so I got scared and stopped it plzz hlp...
I recently put my German Shorthair through the hematoma surgery. He has had to wear a cone the entire time and I've returned to the vet 4 times for bandage changes and to have his stitches removed. He had the stitches removed yesterday and the hematoma is back already!! It hasn't even been 2 weeks since the surgery and I'm out over $500! What do I do now?!
Hi Lois....I just came home from vet and my 11 yr old boston has a hematoma. Surgery is not an option as we don't think she would survive. Can you tell me what type of arnica oil you used and how much? I would really like to try this while it is small. Thanks bunches!
Hi, I find dried arnica in the herb section of a Mexican market. We mix it with olive oil in a bottle and keep to rub on sore muscles and joint aches. Also available online, but only $1-2 in store. Might find it in hispanic or herb section of large supermarket also.
The wonderful Theresa from Minneapolis, MN has been helping pet owners and their beloved pets around the world on Earth Clinic since 2013.
About Theresa
Theresa from Minneapolis was born and raised in the inner city, always wishing she had been raised on a farm.
Her love for creatures great and small began at an early age, starting with caterpillars - which continues to this day, along with an interest in all insects and 'creepy crawlies'.
Theresa's interest in pet health started with a bird keeping hobby at age 14, where she learned from another hobbyist that the simple addition of Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) in a bird's drinking water kept fungal infections away; she was able to share this with her avian vet who in turn prescribed it to her own clients; Theresa was surprised to learn that she could teach her vet a thing or two. This important lesson - that each of us can be a teacher - was a turning point for Theresa, and fueled her quest for the knowledge held in lore, and remedies passed by word of mouth. That quest for knowledge continues to this day, as new and old remedies alike are explored. She may not have experience with a particular issue, but she will research it to the best of her ability and share what she finds freely, in the hopes that you can heal or improve your pet's health.
-----------------------------
How To Show Theresa Your Appreciation
If you would like to thank Theresa for her helpful posts, she asks if you would please consider making a donation to one of her favorite local rescue organizations, or by making a donation to help the genius contributor, Ted from Bangkok, recover from his stroke.
Just wondering how big some of the hematoma were and what they felt like? Did they ever get firm at all. We're dealing with the 2nd for our pup. Went 11 years with none and now 2 in one year :( last time we had a canula put in and it let the ear keep draining. It was a mess!! With a toddler and in our new smaller space we just can't go through that again. Looking for a better option than surgery!
Hi, my 12 year old kitty has an aural hematoma. We have been using the arnica gel for a couple days. Do you think the oil would be better? Any feedback would be much appreciated!!! :-)
Please tell me how to treat Hematoma with this Arnica oil..? How to apply this ..? Will this treat the Hematoma without a surgery ..? Please help me my pet is suffering with this from past 3 weeks.
Hi... My two and half year old Golden Retriever is suffering terribly with a ruptured aural hematoma. His condition is different as it bleeds all the time and due to clotting and repeated healing it irritates, he shakes his head and it bleeds again. And it is like blood all over the house. I haven't tried any surgical process as the vet has said it is good it has ruptured. But I don't see any good in bleeding as of now. I've tried all treatments and finally have got a paraffin base Arnica cream to apply. Just wanted to know if I can apply to his wound as it is an open wound. I have applied it once now, but don't know if that is okay. I feel so helpless and frustrated seeing him suffer. Help.
Minor surgery is very simple and is the best option to avoid needless pain and the situation getting worse. Infection may be present and your dog might need antibiotics.
Hi Raquel, I just went through this with one of my dogs. You can see my post on the aural hematoma page of this site. He got a huge hematoma the size of his ear flap on his left ear and then a smaller one the size of a silver dollar on his right ear as soon as the first one had healed. I couldn't believe it!!!
It was a LONG ordeal to heal the big hematoma, but thankfully a much easier time for the smaller one. If the hematoma is large and putting too much pressure on your dog's ear opening, I suggest you do the small surgery ASAP and get a drainage cap put in. Don't let your dog suffer with the intense heat and pressure from the blood building up in the ear. Don't do the other surgery where they stitch the ear, which is an older procedure most vets don't perform anymore. What my vet did was insert a drainage cap at the top of the ear flap. A very easy procedure. Just know that you will be emptying a small drainage cap twice a day and gently pushing the fluid up from the ear and out and it smells awful. Have paper towels ready!
If you get this drainage cap in, don't take it out until you are sure there is no more fluid coming out, which can take about 3-4 weeks. We pulled out the drainage cap too soon (after 20 days) and had to have another one put in 2 days later because the ear swelled back up. We had to wait until enough scar tissue built up in the ear and then the fluid/blood finally stopped. But it took 6 weeks total and he had to wear a soft fabric Elizabethean collar for all of it (though I took it off for his walks).
If the hematoma is only in one section of the ear flap, watch it to make sure it doesn't keep getting any bigger. If it doesn't grow, leave it alone. Don't even have the vet drain it (which is very painful for the dog) and it will heal in a few week's time without any intervention.
My vet told me she's been treating more hematomas this year in dogs than in years past, and she's not quite sure why. Let me know if you have any questions about this and good luck!
Up-date from July 2014 Dog's neck hematoma.(size of baseball)
It was successfully treated with bentonite clay applied on hematoma, turmeric and garlic internally. It drained 3 times on its own when bentonite clay was applied and left on area. Healing time was approx 6 weeks.
Hi Terry --- this was indeed a fascinating account. It shows, that all the intuitive answers are within when forms of love are the motivation. Congratulations. What a great experience. Namaste, Om
My 15 year old cat has a swollen ear. It's really bad, looks like it's about to burst, but hasn't. He's perfectly fine, yells at me everytime I come into the room! What can I do about this?
Posted by ML (Santa Monica, CA) on 01/15/2021 ★★★★★
My golden retriever got a small hematoma at the bottom of her ear flap last month. After reading the posts on Earth Clinic about Aural Hematomas, I decided to leave the hematoma alone unless it got too big. That was a wise decision. It didn't get any bigger and disappeared after a few weeks. I had also read that draining it at the vet is not always the best decision as it can make the hematoma bigger.
Posted by Berklan (North Carolina) on 10/10/2017 ★★★★★
My dog had this so I came here to learn more about it. She didn't appear to be in any pain if not touched. I knew there was no way I could afford the surgery and planned to order the oil (forgot the name of it), but then a week later her ear had gradually gone back down to its original size.
I promise it won't burst, my boy has one in each ear and they will go away but it will take time! The main thing it to treat what caused it in the first place, so clean ears daily, and check for fleas :) x
The wonderful Theresa from Minneapolis, MN has been helping pet owners and their beloved pets around the world on Earth Clinic since 2013.
About Theresa
Theresa from Minneapolis was born and raised in the inner city, always wishing she had been raised on a farm.
Her love for creatures great and small began at an early age, starting with caterpillars - which continues to this day, along with an interest in all insects and 'creepy crawlies'.
Theresa's interest in pet health started with a bird keeping hobby at age 14, where she learned from another hobbyist that the simple addition of Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) in a bird's drinking water kept fungal infections away; she was able to share this with her avian vet who in turn prescribed it to her own clients; Theresa was surprised to learn that she could teach her vet a thing or two. This important lesson - that each of us can be a teacher - was a turning point for Theresa, and fueled her quest for the knowledge held in lore, and remedies passed by word of mouth. That quest for knowledge continues to this day, as new and old remedies alike are explored. She may not have experience with a particular issue, but she will research it to the best of her ability and share what she finds freely, in the hopes that you can heal or improve your pet's health.
-----------------------------
How To Show Theresa Your Appreciation
If you would like to thank Theresa for her helpful posts, she asks if you would please consider making a donation to one of her favorite local rescue organizations, or by making a donation to help the genius contributor, Ted from Bangkok, recover from his stroke.
Hi Lizzy...you are truly a saviour....thank you so much for that detailed response. You will never know how grateful I am. I am keeping a really close eye on him as you suggested but thankfully, his does not take over the whole ear flap.....its the size of a dollar coin......I am hoping that it would go down and I don't have to do surgery....I feel so bad for him, he is the sweetest dog ever.....anyways, thank you again Lizzy...I am now feeling hopeful.....take care and be blessed.
Hi Raquel, sounds like you have a best case scenario if it's the size of a silver dollar and I wouldn't be too concerned about it if I were you! Yea! Glad I was able to help.
The hematoma will probably start to shrink in about 2 weeks. My dog's smaller hematoma has been going down slowly and we're now on week 6. It will end up looking a lot better than the other ear, which had major scarring. But now I know in the case of hematomas, scarring is a good thing and will likely prevent another hematoma from happening in the future.
Just wanted to give an up-date on my dogâ€TMs hematoma. After the last post I made the hematoma returned 2 times. I kept using the garlic and turmeric and applied bentonite clay when it filled. The hematoma drained within 2 days of applying the benonite clay and the fluid was clear. It filled again with in 3 days and bentonite clay was reapplied. Again it ruptured with blood and continued to drain. This time I kept the bentonite clay on the opening which was much bigger on the last rupture. It healed over and the fur has grown back. They area has a bit of a cauliflower feel to it however because of the location it is not noticeable. It has been over a week and has not refilled.
I just spent $1100 on my mastiff's hematoma for the surgical lance and stitch option that this new vet (I just moved here) threw out there as the only option. Welp, now he had one on his other ear yesterday. I chose the non surgical drain option this time and guess what? When I got him from the vet yesterday the growth is back full force in the previous $1100 ear! Ugh :-/
Posted by Lisa (Brisbane, Australia ) on 11/17/2014
Hi,
Just wanted to say thank you all for posting! My Maremma has a huge aural hematoma but is NOT in pain. He's eating and drinking and wanting to run around and play. His ear is so swollen it looks like a giant samosa :( I took him to the vet who immediately said he needs surgery ($800). But he's nearly 10 so I don't really want to do that.
I am going to bite the bullet and leave it, using arnica cream, and see how we go. I iced it last night which seemed to help, so will try the arnica and tape it to his head (gently) so he can't shake it. Wish me luck! I will post results here. Thanks again. xx
That was back in the day.....When vets cared....And they did it for the LOVE of their Vocation.....Now it's about monetary gratification....They won't even help with split payment.....Sorry
Hi, I'm writing today because my dog was suffering a second haematoma on the opposite ear last week, the first ear cost us over $1000 in surgery. At the time of the initial surgery the vet was quite blaze about it, it made me blaze this time around and before doing anything thought I would look up online about it. This was one of the sites I came to. I did ring the vet last Friday, two or three days after the haematoma appeared. I had her scheduled for surgery yesterday morning, being Monday. I am a psychic and Friday night spirit was badgering me and telling me I would have to take her to the vet on the Saturday morn. I accepted that even tho we live in the country and there is a lot of travel involved, 3 hours of driving alone. I rang the vet and said I was concerned, she assured me she would be fine for her surgery on Monday, she was in no pain, a little discomfort, that was all. I still felt so unsure and asked if I could send some photo's which I did, they came back to say a second time, no she be fine till her scheduled surgery on Monday morning. Spirit woke me at 3.30 am Monday morn badgering me to go and have a cigarette, they hate me smoking and I had to get up early to take the dog. I got up anyway, had my smoke, saw our dogs feet sticking out from the underneath of our bar area, one of her favourite spots. They said call her, I did, nothing, she didn't get up. That's weird, I'm thinking, call again, same. I got up and went over to her started calling her name and shaking her, nothing..... I then stopped still for a minute to see breathing, no breathing, she was dead. We were then faced with burying our dog at 3.30 in the morn and it's safe to say the vet has copped it as well as myself for not listening to spirit in preference to a university degree.
Now, this is what no-one discusses here. If as a human you had that much blood near your brain, you would be hospitilised for fear of an aneurism or stroke, true. I feel my dog died of an aneurism, it could have been a large amount of blood in her ear or a tiny little clot but it found it's way to her brain and killed her. She died in her sleep, we had no idea anything was happening out of the ordinary for those last hours of her life.
Don't listen to everyone on here, don't even listen to vets that say it is not a serious medical condition, my dog was 6 years old, too young to die.
Listen to self and your animal, rely on your intuitive feelings. How can anyone say that would not be hurting, it's just stupid, if our ear was blown up like that full of blood, it would fricking hurt, it's just a load of bs.
Take a tip from someone who knows, get off forums on the internet telling you this and that and take your animal to the vet.
Posted by Daniel Whitton (Justin, Texas USA) on 11/13/2024 ★★★★★
Dog aural hematoma is very confusing to most. Very expensive to surgical repair and surgery fails over 50% with regard to recurrence after sutures are removed. Not to mention the amount of pain and suffering the animal, and owner goes through while cleaning and draining the blood from the ear flap for 2-3 weeks after being sent home with an open wound. Owners should not have this responsibility. Even more, the dog should not be cut open for a blood blister to heal. Granted the arterial break is gong to be the problem until pressure is applied and causes sealing. It happens in nature when the hematoma grows complete and the blood clots. The dog uses this clot to seal and to regrow tissues. We at Auralsplint discovered this in 2001, and since that day have been researching and improving an aural splint treatment to heal the ear in its natural shape, without surgery or pharma injections. Just natural healing while safely enclosed in a splint and taping, forming a thin layer of clot to reduce quickly without shrivel. Far greater results than any other conservative or surgical attempts to treat. Visit us at Auralsplint.org to research your choice to order a Rx kit to your vet clinic or at home to use yourself. It requires a hypodermic needle aspiration before treatment and clean technique must be maintained.
Posted by Daniel Whitton (Justin, Texas) on 11/13/2024
That is great news. Must have been a smaller seroma. For the big balloon sized aural hematomas, no amount of ointment will keep it from shriveling. the size of the resulting clot is the largest determining factor to amount of shrivel. By removing the blood before it clots and applying an aural splint, the blood will be forced to clot in a thin layer, enabling all the benefits and very little of the consequences of shriveling. All we do is help heal aural hematoma in dog. Auralsplint.org
Healing on its own is great information and thank you so much for your input. I myself suffered a hematoma on inside of left thigh the size of a flippen cantaloupe and it too went away on its own.
The wonderful Theresa from Minneapolis, MN has been helping pet owners and their beloved pets around the world on Earth Clinic since 2013.
About Theresa
Theresa from Minneapolis was born and raised in the inner city, always wishing she had been raised on a farm.
Her love for creatures great and small began at an early age, starting with caterpillars - which continues to this day, along with an interest in all insects and 'creepy crawlies'.
Theresa's interest in pet health started with a bird keeping hobby at age 14, where she learned from another hobbyist that the simple addition of Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) in a bird's drinking water kept fungal infections away; she was able to share this with her avian vet who in turn prescribed it to her own clients; Theresa was surprised to learn that she could teach her vet a thing or two. This important lesson - that each of us can be a teacher - was a turning point for Theresa, and fueled her quest for the knowledge held in lore, and remedies passed by word of mouth. That quest for knowledge continues to this day, as new and old remedies alike are explored. She may not have experience with a particular issue, but she will research it to the best of her ability and share what she finds freely, in the hopes that you can heal or improve your pet's health.
-----------------------------
How To Show Theresa Your Appreciation
If you would like to thank Theresa for her helpful posts, she asks if you would please consider making a donation to one of her favorite local rescue organizations, or by making a donation to help the genius contributor, Ted from Bangkok, recover from his stroke.
Kenalog aka Triamcinolone Acetonide is an injectable steroid. Some dogs tolerate steroids very well, and for others with undiagnosed health issues can result in death. Please have your pet checked out for any potential health problems such as heart murmurs BEFORE you administer steroids.
I am sorry to hear about the hematoma returning but it sounds to me like your vet took out the stitches too soon.
This is what happened to my dog in 2014, except my vet used a drainage cap instead of stitches. She initially took it out after 2 weeks and his poor ear filled back up with blood within 24 hours. She had to put the drainage cap back in for another 3 weeks after that. She charged less for the procedure the 2nd time and didn't put him under anesthesia, thankfully. It was a simple insertion of a little plastic cap near the tip of his ear. You can read my thread on this site's hematoma page about what happened to our dog.
If it's a large hematoma, you will have to do the procedure again, I think. But you need to wait until enough scar tissue has formed in his ear and that takes about 21 days! (Sorry for the bad news). Expect a thick, cauliflower ear and extreme sensitivity to heat and itchiness once your dog has healed. The good news is that my dog hasn't had any more hematomas, but I have to stay very vigilant about cleaning his ears at least twice a week.
Posted by Helpheidi (San Antonio Tx) on 02/03/2017
My Shih Tzu has a hematoma *HelpHeidi*
I took in a 12 year old shih Tzu because this kind hearted old lady couldn't find her a home and she was homeless. We feel in love with Heidi and felt so bad she was being abandoned by her owners. Now, I see how hard it really is to take care of an elderly dog. If I had the funds to care for her properly I wouldn't have a problem. I am scared the vet might take her from me or put her down because I don't have to money right now. Heidi has a hematoma in her ear and I need to take her to the vet as soon as possible. Please help any way you can. If you know of any foundation's that could help, we'd really appreciate it.
The wonderful Theresa from Minneapolis, MN has been helping pet owners and their beloved pets around the world on Earth Clinic since 2013.
About Theresa
Theresa from Minneapolis was born and raised in the inner city, always wishing she had been raised on a farm.
Her love for creatures great and small began at an early age, starting with caterpillars - which continues to this day, along with an interest in all insects and 'creepy crawlies'.
Theresa's interest in pet health started with a bird keeping hobby at age 14, where she learned from another hobbyist that the simple addition of Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) in a bird's drinking water kept fungal infections away; she was able to share this with her avian vet who in turn prescribed it to her own clients; Theresa was surprised to learn that she could teach her vet a thing or two. This important lesson - that each of us can be a teacher - was a turning point for Theresa, and fueled her quest for the knowledge held in lore, and remedies passed by word of mouth. That quest for knowledge continues to this day, as new and old remedies alike are explored. She may not have experience with a particular issue, but she will research it to the best of her ability and share what she finds freely, in the hopes that you can heal or improve your pet's health.
-----------------------------
How To Show Theresa Your Appreciation
If you would like to thank Theresa for her helpful posts, she asks if you would please consider making a donation to one of her favorite local rescue organizations, or by making a donation to help the genius contributor, Ted from Bangkok, recover from his stroke.
Arnica Oil/creme/gel and Castor oil - saturate the affected ear with either at all times, try to keep the pup from shaking excessively, this can make it worse... I also gave a turmeric supplement when my pup had hers, you can also just add a good quality turmeric to her food as well. My poor little girl had a pretty bad one and it took about a month to heal using the Castor Oil/Arnica and Tumeric. Sometimes I would add a few drops of pure lavender oil to the Castor Oil. You can do a "cone of shame" or better an inflatable-collar to keep her from pawing at it if it does bother her. Good Luck!
Posted by Auralsplint (Justin, Texas Usa) on 08/06/2015
The first line of action once you notice your dog has an aural hematoma: Perform a hypodermic needle aspiration to remove the fresh fluids before a clot is formed.
Second: Use an 'Auralsplint' to correct the broken artery causing the hematoma and keep the ear from shriveling. Do not have the archaic and gruesome surgery which does not attempt to correct the broken artery, but instead allows the continued blood flow into the cavity and out either a drain or an open wound. The cost of surgery is mostly prohibitive and rather not needed now that the Auralsplint is in use.
Until you are able to perform the auralsplint treatment, make sure to aspirate on a four to five day schedule to keep a clot from forming. For more information visit Auralsplint.org.
Hi my dog has a small aural hematoma & I'd like to first try herbal treatment. Can you let me know how you made the yunnan b powder into a paste, did you use an oil or just a little water & how long did you leave it on? Should it stay moist or dry while on? Thanks!
I just added a little water to the yb powder and applied a thin coating to the bump and let it dry. Someone else I know that tried this gauzed the ear and kept the yb powder moist and had the same results. So, either way is probably fine.
My baby has the the same thing but now in both ears , I have been using arnica gel and it has helped a little, I was wondering if you used 100% pure arnica oil, maybe it might heal faster. Thank you for your help.
My dog has her second hematoma in a year..different ears. Just noticed the newest one is starting to balloon so I read your post..you say he put the oil ON the ear flap or IN the ear canal? The one in the summer was cut and drained..didn't have the 1200 CDN dollars to have her ear surgically operated on.
Did you try the Arnica oil on your dog. Where did you purchase the oil in Ontario? All of these products that are so readily available in the States sometimes aren't so much in Canada. I am trying to find it for my Boston Terrier. I would love to know if I can treat this without surgery.
The wonderful Theresa from Minneapolis, MN has been helping pet owners and their beloved pets around the world on Earth Clinic since 2013.
About Theresa
Theresa from Minneapolis was born and raised in the inner city, always wishing she had been raised on a farm.
Her love for creatures great and small began at an early age, starting with caterpillars - which continues to this day, along with an interest in all insects and 'creepy crawlies'.
Theresa's interest in pet health started with a bird keeping hobby at age 14, where she learned from another hobbyist that the simple addition of Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) in a bird's drinking water kept fungal infections away; she was able to share this with her avian vet who in turn prescribed it to her own clients; Theresa was surprised to learn that she could teach her vet a thing or two. This important lesson - that each of us can be a teacher - was a turning point for Theresa, and fueled her quest for the knowledge held in lore, and remedies passed by word of mouth. That quest for knowledge continues to this day, as new and old remedies alike are explored. She may not have experience with a particular issue, but she will research it to the best of her ability and share what she finds freely, in the hopes that you can heal or improve your pet's health.
-----------------------------
How To Show Theresa Your Appreciation
If you would like to thank Theresa for her helpful posts, she asks if you would please consider making a donation to one of her favorite local rescue organizations, or by making a donation to help the genius contributor, Ted from Bangkok, recover from his stroke.
Thanks for the follow up! How nice to know that you CAN take the 'do nothing' approach in this situation and simply allow the ear to heal in it's own good time!
Yes Theresa...I was stunned that this worked.... I saw a vet on youtube encouraging people to just wait it out and insisted that most of the time it would heal on its own and it did....of course there are exceptions, that's why you have to closely observe while you are waiting....
Hi Lorraine! So glad to hear the ear healed - yahoo!! My dog's right ear also healed beautifully after leaving it alone for a month. However (sigh), I was away all last week and didn't ask my husband to clean his ears out once a week like I usually do. So he started scratching his ear again a few nights ago and guess what... another small hematoma formed in the same right ear! I can't believe it! Lesson: We need to stay on top of keeping the ears clean to control yeast overgrowth/severe itchiness. I use a great pet ear solution that I got from the vet, by the way. It stops the itchiness fast and I only have to use it once a week. I also smell his ears frequently to see how much yeast is building up. When they get really smelly is the time to clean the ears. Best, Lizzy
The wonderful Theresa from Minneapolis, MN has been helping pet owners and their beloved pets around the world on Earth Clinic since 2013.
About Theresa
Theresa from Minneapolis was born and raised in the inner city, always wishing she had been raised on a farm.
Her love for creatures great and small began at an early age, starting with caterpillars - which continues to this day, along with an interest in all insects and 'creepy crawlies'.
Theresa's interest in pet health started with a bird keeping hobby at age 14, where she learned from another hobbyist that the simple addition of Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) in a bird's drinking water kept fungal infections away; she was able to share this with her avian vet who in turn prescribed it to her own clients; Theresa was surprised to learn that she could teach her vet a thing or two. This important lesson - that each of us can be a teacher - was a turning point for Theresa, and fueled her quest for the knowledge held in lore, and remedies passed by word of mouth. That quest for knowledge continues to this day, as new and old remedies alike are explored. She may not have experience with a particular issue, but she will research it to the best of her ability and share what she finds freely, in the hopes that you can heal or improve your pet's health.
-----------------------------
How To Show Theresa Your Appreciation
If you would like to thank Theresa for her helpful posts, she asks if you would please consider making a donation to one of her favorite local rescue organizations, or by making a donation to help the genius contributor, Ted from Bangkok, recover from his stroke.
I like Zymox for itchy, sore, yeasty ears - but as you know, keeping them clean in the first place heads off issues and is key.
Another thing that may help is the addition of Borax [unscented laundry booster/sodium borate] added to the drinking water. Consider one quarter teaspoon into one liter as his regular drinking water. This will help combat an internal/systemic yeast infection [manifesting in the ears].
Hi Lizzy....I'm so glad that you chose to wait and see what happens instead of running to the vet and have them cause so much pain to your dog and on top of that pay them for that as well...after I read about the draining etc. after the surgery, I chose to just wait it out and now my dog is happy....are you going to wait this one out as well? I am thinking since it's small you should, but then, that's up to you......if you don't mind, can you give me the name of the medicine for the ear? Let us know the outcome....take care...
I find this really helpful. I have three dogs, and my middle dog has recently gotten hematoma in her left ear. I was worried because her ear began to droop and I didn't know if it was serious or not. We also can't afford to take her to the vet because my oldest dog has come down with a nail infection and she is actually experiencing some pain, so she needs treatment and we can't afford treatment for both of them. After some research though, it seems like she'll be just fine if it's left alone since the bulge isn't large, painful, or bloody. I think if the bulge in her ear gets worse and does not cease to get better I will take her to the vet, but if it stays the same, my baby will be just fine :)
Hello I just saw your reply about your dog and swollen ear.. I know it's been a while since you wrote this, but my cat has same thing and I'm just struggling to know if I should take him to vet. He seems fine, it's just realy swollen and hangs front.. So my question is you didn't do anything? Didn't drain it either just left it alone?
Thank you for the cheerful news! My dog got the ear hematoma on one ear on the weekend.I went to the vet, he sugested as an only option that works a surgery which was estimated for over$ 1000! I was so devastated because my dog had a surgery a month ago and it cost me apr. $2000. I will try to wait and see. How big it can grow? I am scared that it could burst? Thank you, Anna
I just freaked out seeing how they did surgery on this. Then it could come back as well as the cost. My husband and I are both on disability and could not afford the cost. Then I read about your situation and think I should do the same. I have been given him a dose of antibiotics (cephalexin and benadryls). I have read in other's post to leave it alone. I even read someone used preparation h to refuse swelling. Have you heard of this as an option.
The wonderful Theresa from Minneapolis, MN has been helping pet owners and their beloved pets around the world on Earth Clinic since 2013.
About Theresa
Theresa from Minneapolis was born and raised in the inner city, always wishing she had been raised on a farm.
Her love for creatures great and small began at an early age, starting with caterpillars - which continues to this day, along with an interest in all insects and 'creepy crawlies'.
Theresa's interest in pet health started with a bird keeping hobby at age 14, where she learned from another hobbyist that the simple addition of Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) in a bird's drinking water kept fungal infections away; she was able to share this with her avian vet who in turn prescribed it to her own clients; Theresa was surprised to learn that she could teach her vet a thing or two. This important lesson - that each of us can be a teacher - was a turning point for Theresa, and fueled her quest for the knowledge held in lore, and remedies passed by word of mouth. That quest for knowledge continues to this day, as new and old remedies alike are explored. She may not have experience with a particular issue, but she will research it to the best of her ability and share what she finds freely, in the hopes that you can heal or improve your pet's health.
-----------------------------
How To Show Theresa Your Appreciation
If you would like to thank Theresa for her helpful posts, she asks if you would please consider making a donation to one of her favorite local rescue organizations, or by making a donation to help the genius contributor, Ted from Bangkok, recover from his stroke.
The way to prevent another aural hematoma is to remove the cause of your dog's need to shake his head, ie you need to be on top of those itchy, yeasty ears. This may mean cleaning his ears every other day [or weekly or ???] whether it looks to you as if he needs it or not.
One simple solution for cleaning ears that are NOT infected is 1 part isopropyl rubbing alcohol, 1 part ACV and 2 parts water - warm before using to flush out your dog's ears.
Consider these homeopathic remedies and herbs for treating aural hematomas in pets:
Thank you Theresa for responding to my post! I will check out the homeopathic remedies as you suggest. Yes, I will definitely stay on top of keeping his ears clean and gunk free. The hematoma came back today... my poor boy looks very uncomfortable. Giving him antibiotics ear drops from the vet and making sure he's not itchy. Gave him a couple of tramadol pills last night for pain that the vet gave me, but would like to avoid them if possible. Tough to see the ear flap ballooned like that. I will let you know how it goes, but thank you again for taking the time to respond.
This made me think. A few years back I missed a step and fell onto my knee . Later this became a large swelling; apparently fluid in the knee.
The chemical doctor said I should never kneel again and the fluid should be removed.! I declined. Went home and warmed up a quantity of pure sesame oil, dunked a cotton cloth into it and wound around the knee, finishing up with a woolen cloth. I kept my knee up on a chair for the treatment till the oil cooled down. I think I repeated it once or so. The result was NO fluid, the knee perfect and I could continue my yoga classes without problems.
The fluid around the knee is the body's protection and it is vital to keep it in the body. Removing it would result in a lot of ensuing troubles.
I would do the same to the dog's ear except one would have to stay for about twenty minutes for the warm oil to have a beneficial effect. However, I endorse Theresa's posting. That is what I do and what people in Europe have done for a long time. The doctor's advice was amazing, to say the least. Namaste, Om
I wanted to give everyone an update on my dog's aural hematoma. As I mentioned, I took him to the Emergency Vet 2 weeks ago and got the hematoma drained. It came back 24 hours later as they said it would. I then looked up remedies on the internet and found a woman who dissolved a hematoma on her dog's ear by massaging it with a tiny amount of castor oil, so I tried massaging his ear twice a day (very gently). It did nothing and in fact, I think may have made it worse. I took him to my regular vet 4 days later who looked at me incredulously when I told her I tried to massage his ear. She explained that a burst capillary is very small and that there is NOWHERE for the blood to go and that I should not be trying to increase blood flow to the ear right now! She wanted to do a quick surgical procedure where they insert a cap that you empty twice a day. This is what vets are mostly doing these days instead of stitching up the ear flap. But I opted to get it drained one more time hoping it would hold this second time since I had been treating his ear with antibiotic drops for 5 days at this point. Okay, so no, it didn't work and within 24 hours later, it filled up with blood again. Sigh. The weekend came and went and I took him back to get the surgery at the beginning of last week. Cost $600, but he is doing so much better now. I take off the cap twice a day and push liquid up and out through it. It actually oozes now and then around the cap. He is wearing the Elizabethean cone except on walks, which my husband trimmed down on all but the left side so that he can eat and drink without an issue and not smash into furniture. I will take him back to the vet in 10 days.
So basically, for those deciding what to do with an aural hematoma, I would suggest you NOT waste your money getting the ear drained (unless it's a small hematoma, unlike my dog's, which was the size of his entire ear flap) and opt instead for immediately getting the cap surgery. It would have taken forever for the blood to dissolve back into his body if we had done nothing, and I know he was in quite a bit of pain from having so much pressure build up in his earflap. I hope this helps people. I do regret waiting it out before getting this quick and easy surgery.
If I have any more news, I will write again! Lizzy
Hi Lisa, I just read your post about the huge hematoma in your dog. My dog also had a huge hematoma in his left ear, as you might have read in my other posts. Even though it looked like he was not in pain, the vet assured me it was very painful for him. The amount of pressure on the ear is intense as there is nowhere for the blood to go. I wasted a week treating the hematoma with ice, arnica, etc., and needle injections, which I later regretted. The drainage tube the vet added was a pain I must admit, but it was the best decision. It was about half the price as an ear flap surgery. He has had no more problems in that particular ear since last April, thankfully. Unfortunately he does have a cauliflower ear from the build up of scar tissue.
My beloved dog has had multiple, smaller hematomas in his other ear since the first big one (and an insipid skin infection that I will write about in another post). I left the first 2 hematomas alone with the vet's agreement, but every time he scratched, he managed to swell up his right ear and cause another hematoma. So the "leave it alone" method hasn't worked well for my boy dog at all.
About a month ago, I started seeing a new holistic vet who told me about a third method of treating hematomas with low dose prednisone. The treatment tapers off slowly in the 2nd week. This method has worked very well I am happy to say! Swelling went down after 1 week and the area is healing nicely.
Good luck! Let us know how your furry friend is doing!
Posted by Daniel (Justin, Texas Usa) on 06/23/2015
The use of the Auralsplint to correct the hematoma is in case studies at present and will be made available this year. In order to use the auralsplint, first the hematoma must be drained within 7 days of onset, or sooner. Thereafter or until time of the auralsplint treatment is applied, no longer than 5 days should pass without a needle aspiration to remove the fluids and keep a blood clot from forming in the hematoma cavity. As long as most of the fluid can be aspirated, the auralsplint treatment can be effective, corrective, and help keep the ear from shriveling.
Posted by Shelley (Charleston, South Carolina) on 07/27/2015
Dear Sun,
I am sorry for your loss. My dog is a part of me and I would give my life for my dog. I don't have $ to pay for the surgery so I don't know what to do... I wish a Dr. could help me. I mean if veterinary loves animals than what I don't get is why a vet won't help me.
The wonderful Theresa from Minneapolis, MN has been helping pet owners and their beloved pets around the world on Earth Clinic since 2013.
About Theresa
Theresa from Minneapolis was born and raised in the inner city, always wishing she had been raised on a farm.
Her love for creatures great and small began at an early age, starting with caterpillars - which continues to this day, along with an interest in all insects and 'creepy crawlies'.
Theresa's interest in pet health started with a bird keeping hobby at age 14, where she learned from another hobbyist that the simple addition of Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) in a bird's drinking water kept fungal infections away; she was able to share this with her avian vet who in turn prescribed it to her own clients; Theresa was surprised to learn that she could teach her vet a thing or two. This important lesson - that each of us can be a teacher - was a turning point for Theresa, and fueled her quest for the knowledge held in lore, and remedies passed by word of mouth. That quest for knowledge continues to this day, as new and old remedies alike are explored. She may not have experience with a particular issue, but she will research it to the best of her ability and share what she finds freely, in the hopes that you can heal or improve your pet's health.
-----------------------------
How To Show Theresa Your Appreciation
If you would like to thank Theresa for her helpful posts, she asks if you would please consider making a donation to one of her favorite local rescue organizations, or by making a donation to help the genius contributor, Ted from Bangkok, recover from his stroke.
This sounds like a veterinary visit is in order to determine if your cat has an aural hematoma or an abcess. Treatment will vary depending on the diagnosis.
Now, was your cat scratching like crazy at his ear and caused an aural hematoma? Or did he get into a fight and the swollen ear is an abcess resulting from a bite wound?
I personally have no experience with an aural hematoma and can only recommend you seek your vet's advice. However if this were my cat, and if I knew I was dealing with an abcess, I would find the scab from the wound and pull it off, and then use some pressure to pop the abcess like a giant pimple to allow it to drain. I would flush the abcess with 3% hydrogen peroxide and then keep doing the same until it healed up [I have actually done this many times when I and an outdoor tom cat.]
If this is an aural hematoma some would attempt to treat this at home -and the links may supply some ideas for you. Also check out the use of leeches from a post on Earth Clinic's page.
Also check this out for herbs and homeopathic remedies for aural hematomas in cats:
Thank you so much for all your information! He definitely has an aural hematoma. I can't see taking him to the vet, he's kind of old, and I know how that goes. The information you included on Yunnan Baiyao looks real promising. I'm going to go get some of that and I'll let you know how it goes. Thank you again!
Theresa from Minneapolis, MN. I got the Yunnan Baiyao, although it's expired. I put it on his ear, using the paste to put on the outside of his ear because it is expired. We'll see what happens now. I'm going to go to another Chinese grocery store and get some more that isn't expired, to give him it internally. He was really good, let me put it right on him!
Posted by Lynda (Mar Del Plata, Arrgentina) on 01/16/2009
i am so relieved to have read leeches and your kind visitors comments.......she let nature take its course.....im gong through the same problem with max my beautiful belgian shepherd even though he is being medicated at the moment the vet is pressing me to have him operated on as soon as possible and now from reading this article im going to wait.......here in argentina vet procedures arevery expensive and local vets are anxious to inflate their pockets!!!!!!!!!!!!.....again thanks for being on internet.........lynda
Posted by Ruth Foster (Wetwang, England) on 05/18/2009
I was very encouraged to see the info about the haematoma and wondered how Lynda's Beligum sheppard's ear is a my dog has the same problewm and the same types of ears as a belgium sheppard. My other dog had the same, he had surgery which I would like to avoid if possible as it was very distressing for him.
Posted by Christina (Grass Valley, Ca, Usa) on 07/28/2012
My dog had this a few years ago and the vet took care of it, but couldn't find a cause, no ear infection or mites or anything. The only time I had noticed her shaking her head was when she was shaking her floppy toys so I sadly took away her favorite toys and left her with the more compact variety and she has not had a recurrence.
Posted by Bpaisley (Chicago, Il, Usa) on 12/12/2012
I recently noticed a hematoma developing on my chocolate lab pup (10yrs old) and monitored it. I have been giving her Belladonna (30c) to no avail. Today I started with an oil blend of cypress and lemon which seems to help. I also switched her remedy to phosphorus 30c - waiting on the outcome. The ideal oil is Helichrysum, however I do not have this yet. I ordered four medical leeches and will try this approach when they arrive. It is uncomfortable to the touch so I am quite careful when applying the oils. I also started her on vitamin C in her breakfast. If the leeches are unsuccessful, I will put her on a Chinese herbal formula. I will let you know how it goes. Fingers crossed! I have ruled out surgery as I do not see this as a necessary means to the end.
The wonderful Theresa from Minneapolis, MN has been helping pet owners and their beloved pets around the world on Earth Clinic since 2013.
About Theresa
Theresa from Minneapolis was born and raised in the inner city, always wishing she had been raised on a farm.
Her love for creatures great and small began at an early age, starting with caterpillars - which continues to this day, along with an interest in all insects and 'creepy crawlies'.
Theresa's interest in pet health started with a bird keeping hobby at age 14, where she learned from another hobbyist that the simple addition of Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) in a bird's drinking water kept fungal infections away; she was able to share this with her avian vet who in turn prescribed it to her own clients; Theresa was surprised to learn that she could teach her vet a thing or two. This important lesson - that each of us can be a teacher - was a turning point for Theresa, and fueled her quest for the knowledge held in lore, and remedies passed by word of mouth. That quest for knowledge continues to this day, as new and old remedies alike are explored. She may not have experience with a particular issue, but she will research it to the best of her ability and share what she finds freely, in the hopes that you can heal or improve your pet's health.
-----------------------------
How To Show Theresa Your Appreciation
If you would like to thank Theresa for her helpful posts, she asks if you would please consider making a donation to one of her favorite local rescue organizations, or by making a donation to help the genius contributor, Ted from Bangkok, recover from his stroke.
Thank you for sharing your journey, and your emphasis to follow your gut instinct in taking your pet to the vet if you feel strongly something is wrong. You are so right; internet advice only goes so far, especially when one cannot look at a case *real time* to see for themselves the symptoms without them being translated via keyboard into the written word.
I have to say, however, that unless you had your dog necropsied [autopsy] that your guess of "death by aural hematoma" is wild speculation. Its very possible your dog did indeed die from a brain or cerebral aneurysm - but such a thing is not caused from an aural hematoma.
An aneurysm is: a localized, pathological, blood-filled dilatation of a blood vessel caused by a disease or weakening of the vessel's wall
A hematoma is: a swelling caused by a ruptured blood vessel after bleeding has occurred inside a tissue.
Aural hematoma occurs when a blood vessel within the ear flap breaks, and the ear flap swells with blood. The swelling can be partial or complete and in severe conditions may even block the ear canal totally. The ear flap can fluctuate, appear like a balloon and result in a significant change in the carriage of the ear.
Untreated hematomas may heal without any treatment over a period of time. However, this option is preferred only in cases where the dog cannot be given an anesthesia. Left alone, an aural hematoma can disfigure the ears giving them a shape that is commonly known as ‘cauliflower' ears.
I cannot find in any research that aural hematomas are life threatening. Aneurysms, however, are indeed life threatening. Common locations for aneurysms include:
The major artery from the heart (the aorta)
The brain (cerebral aneurysm)
In the leg behind the knee popliteal artery aneurysm)
Intestine (mesenteric artery aneurysm)
An artery in the spleen (splenic artery aneurysm)
If you step back and re-read your post it makes more sense to consider that your dog had a life threatening condition that existed in the first place [i.e brain tumor which very likely could result in a cerebral aneurysm], causing your dog to shake her head to the point of rupturing blood vessels in her ears resulting in the aural hematomas in both ears. The dual aural hematomas were the symptom of a bigger issue, and not the issue that caused her death.
Again, I am very sorry for the loss of your girl, and I wish you peace in her absence.
Hi! I'm having this same issue... I took my dog to the vet and they drained her ear twice... Second time it was ok for awhile then it became really swollen... She's almost 15 and I don't want to put her through surgery...
Iqbal, You are absolutely right, it worked for my Staffie.
I used Arnica oil from India and needed Lachesis (for internal injury) to reduce the swelling which took 7 weeks in total and was well worth the wait. Thank you very much for your helpful comment. Those who comment and say they need to see trials are ill informed and are not interested in solutions and do not care that the dog will suffer painful surgery. My dog went through hell when she had her other hematoma drained through surgery. My dog also broke teeth whilst she was under the care of the so called vet. I am glad I followed my intuition this time. I know homeopathy works and do not need to see trials.
I cured my dog of aural hematoma with homeopathy. I am very proud of that.
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