Hey everyone! So, Max has got this weird ear bump. I heard it's called a hematoma or something. Is there a way to help him at home, or should we just chill on the couch and let the vet handle it? Not sure if this is dumb or not!

Hey there! No worries, you’re not asking a dumb question at all. It sounds like Max might have what's called an aural hematoma, which is basically a collection of blood under the skin of the ear flap. It’s common in dogs and can happen if they've been shaking their head a lot or have an ear infection.

Here's what to keep an eye out for:

• Swelling or a soft, balloon-like bump on the ear flap
• Discomfort or scratching at the ear
• Ear shaking or head tilting

If Max seems comfortable, and the bump isn't too big, it's typically not an emergency. That said, a vet will need to see him since these usually don't resolve on their own and can cause scarring or discomfort if left untreated.

For now, make sure Max is calm and isn't injuring it further. Let him rest, try to prevent excessive head shaking, and keep an eye on the swelling. You can give him some gentle cuddles but avoid poking at the bump.

Definitely reach out to a vet if:

• The swelling gets bigger or more painful
• He’s in obvious discomfort or pain
• There's any bleeding or bad smell from his ear
• You're just feeling unsure about his symptoms

Getting it checked sooner rather than later can prevent complications, like infections or permanent ear changes.

If you're unsure or your pet’s symptoms worsen, it's best to book a call with a vet on Dial A Vet for professional advice.