Accepted Answer

Hi and thanks for your interest in this important subject.

The information in the two previous answers is correct.

Gentamicin is known to cause temporary hearing loss in some dogs. Unfortunately, it is one of the best medications known to eliminate bacterial growth in the ears so it has not been replaced as a standard medication to use. Any pet experiencing an adverse drug effect should not be exposed to that medication again in future:

http://www.petplace.com/drug-library/gentamicin-gentocin/page1.aspx

If it has been more than three weeks since the medication was stopped, you may need to consider asking your regular vet for a referral to a Veterinary Neurologist to have a complete analysis of your pet's hearing loss.

***But first, I would have your regular vet re-examine these ears. Wax build up can interfere with the normalizing process. Your vet can look all the way down the canal to the ear drum and tell you if it is healthy, or if the ear drum has a tear in it.***

Here is a link that has a lot of information about hearing loss in dogs and some ideas about how to help at home:

http://www.petplace.com/dogs/deafness-in-dogs/page1.aspx

http://www.petplace.com/dogs/how-to-live-with-a-deaf-dog/page1.aspx

If this was caused by the medication, your patience and gentle care are the best friends your dog has at this time!


GenB38887.6992049769

Expert:	Gen B.
Pos. Feedback:	99.7 %
Accepts:	918
Answered:	6/19/2006

Retired Veterinary Technician

Lhasa,Shih Tzu Breeder/ B.A.Neurophysiology & Animal Behavior/I use plain English!