Gundog Training Forum

My springer has had an ear infection, and has got a burst blood vessel (haematoma) on the inside of his ear, of an area of a 2 pence piece. He has been treated for the infection, and during this time has seen two different vets at the same practise. The first vet advised us to have him operated on to remove the haematoma, and the second one made no mention of it.

The dog isn't bothered at all by it, and the vet has provided an estimate of £695 to operate on him. Has anyone else had an experience of this?

Yes, many times, I used to work for a vet and we did many of those ops. It seems a lot of money, are you sure it is just for the haematoma? The operation lets out the blood, then is stitched or has buttons which stops the dog having a 'cauliflowre' looking ear. The blood vessel burst because the dog keeps shaking his ear.

Thanks for your reply. Is it an operation that you would deem necessary if it is not bothering the dog?
Thanks

I do not have experience with this specific condition but I've had six Springers and come to the conclusion that whether or not you are insured (some of mine are - older are not) you just do the best for the dog in front of you. I would suggest that for yours, first off try a dog balaclava so the ears are held, cannot be shaken - cost about a tenner for someone to knit for you - if you can't do it yourself. Or cut up a cheap Beanie so at collar level nose and eyes are out but ears are in so cannot be shaken. Not on all the time of course.

Yes generally clients are told to wait for it to fill and then it's removed. £695!!?? It's around £175 at our vets!!