JoAnn,
Your scenario makes me want to get up on my ear infection/antibiotic soapbox
so here I go. My 1st son got his first ear infection at 13mo. Every September
thru May he was on antibiotics until he was 6yrs old(he also did not take
them willingly) ! Finally, the medicine became totally ineffective despite
increasingly stronger types.(we also wanted to avoid tubes).My daughter
wasn't plagued nearly as frequently with ear problems but the antibiotics
were also less effective each time. Next, my 3rd child (a son) got his first
ear infection at 4mo.(while still totally BF) I am not a big dairy eater but
it is still in our diets in moderation. I have not seen any studies @ the
link but I'm sure it's there. I have seen a reference to a study about kids
taking antibiotcs for ear infections tend to have them reoccur MORE
frequently. Here is what I have done. I sought out Homeopathic remedies thru
a local MD who I found out uses them in his practice. His prescription was
HIGHLY effective in relieving the symptoms(I have not bought an antibiotic
for over a year for my children) Next, I started reading about strengthening
the immune system, it's not the bacteria that is a threat, it's your body's
ability to fight off attacks.Antibiotics destroy your body's ability to fight
for itself,  they totally interfere with the normal immune functions. Now I
have learned the value of nutritional supplements like zinc, garlic, vit A,
vit. C, Echineacea....You are the only advocate for your child and there are
LOTS of alternatives out there that are incrediblely effective.
Unfortunately, these alternatives are not taught in Med School so our Peds
(especially in the US) won't be able to help you. You need to educate
yourself.There are alot of resources available. Hope this helps... I know
what your going thru...Robin B. Frees in PA