Hi!
I have a 9 year old neutered Basset Hound that continually has smelly, itchy ears and sometimes his body is maloderous as well. I was reading questions on your forum and you made the connection between yeast infection in the ears and body odor. He has a brown, tarry like substance in them as well.
I have used a 50/50 peroxide and water solution to wash them down and it seems to help, but the condition eventually returns. Fresh aloe vera gel seems to ease the itching as well. I am aware because of their long ears covering the ear opening that they do not have the air circulation others dogs do to keep their ears dry, but was wondering if you have any other suggestions? I am also aware that there can be systemic yeast infections. Any way to rid him of that?
He has also developed intermittent red, bloodshot eyes and seems to be developing a cloudiness in the eyeball itself. We have stopped taking him to certain areas thinking it could be an allergic reaction to a chemical, but they are not clearing up. He has a clear, thick discharge at times as well, but not always. He rarely rubs them, so they do not seem to be itching or hurting.
Could the two problems be related? Any other suggestions?
Oh, he had surgery earlier this year for an infected abscess on his shoulder (I had removed a tick and knew that the head had stayed behind and although I usually treat it with a topical antibiotic and have no problems, I saw this one grow at that spot). My vet didn't think the tick head could have been the problem, but when it quicky started swelling again, at the same spot after the surgery, he did say when I asked why, that it could be a foreign body (a tick would be a foreign body, right? :)) He was put on a strong antibiotic before the surgery and for some days after, as well. Could there be a connection? I had given him yogurt afterward to rebuild the probiotics in his intestines. Maybe not long enough?
I'm sorry for the length, but I appreciate so much a place to ask. Thank you for any suggestions.