Well, this vet thinks Basil's ear problems may stem from an allergy..
These can can come from different sources, but most often is the food he said. I did switch dry food about 7 or 8 month ago. This "was" more or less around the time that this probem began, but I'd not considered any connection to diet and ear problems. My past vet never mentioned this either.
This would be very good news..since there's an easy solution. I'm going to change just as a precaution while we are sorting this out.

He's only guessing at this point of course - one possibility. Both Basil's ears are infected apparently.So, he gave him a steroid shot to relieve the itching, and I'm taking him back on Tuesday, when he will try to clean his ears out, and assess again.
He did not rule out a polyp, and agreed there could be one deep in the ear canal. I'm going to ask his opinion on seeing a specialist.. just dont want to take any chances.

As for the clinic and the vet - I found them both to be adequete, but wasnt overly impressed..Cant say I felt any great rapport with him, and his interaction with Basil was sufficient, but not particularly warm or attentive.
Takes time to build a client relationship of course, cant really go by one visit. My first impression was that he was not what I'm looking for, but he's not the only vet there.
The basic pricing at this clinic is lower than some - $44 for an exam as opposed to $57 before. That's an important factor with 4 pets. but its only one aspect. I'd rather pay more to get a great vet I love than less for one I dont have full confidence in, or dont communicate well with.
So, we'll see how things go
Once I get Basil's ear issues addressed, will try a couple of other clinics for comparison. No rush to make make a final choice, and I've lots to choose from.

I'm sorry that Basil's ear problems flared up again. I hope he's feeling much better after the steroid shot.

It would be wonderful if his problems are solved simply by a change in diet and I'm hoping that will do the trick.

Oh poor Basil. Sorry to hear the ear problem has come back.
That's interesting about the food change and possible allergies.
I guess if you switch back it might resolve itself. Sorry you
didn't "bond" right away with this vet. But as you said there are
others out there. You will know when you find the right one.
Give Basil a gentle hug for me!

hugs,
Arlene

Fran, what a worry it is when we know that our furries are not there usual selves. I sure hope that the change of food combined with the steroid shot will give Basil the relief he needs and you can see signs of improvement. Will be watching for your updates.

Fran, I sure hope the food change works for Basil!
It certainly did for Dolly, although her situation was
a bit different, she had these very dirty ears, full of gunk.
But she did scratch too, even making little sores that would
bleed and scab.
Sometimes she would shake her head and you could hear that
gunk rattle around in there
Since being on her new food, a hyperallergy one from the vet, she hasn't had a flare up!

Kisses and hugs for sweet Basil,

Joan

Allergies can cause ear problems.. poor Basil, Bluie has had a fungus infection in her ears twice, way down in the canal.. hard to see.. hope the new meds work and he is feeling better soon. It will take a while to find a vet you feel good with, but when you do, you will know.

Yes allegies can cause ear infections so maybe all that is needed is a grain free food or something. I am sorry if you didn't hit it off that well, I think your first gut reaction is probably the most accurate one so listen to it, you will know when you find the right fit.

Hope he gets feeling better, poor little guy.