she keeps wagging her head side to side also she constantly itches and sometimes whines at me but she is constantly itching a part of her body but i really dont wanna take her to the vet if i dont have to
It sounds like your dog is experiencing significant discomfort, and there are a few potential reasons for her symptoms. Excessive itching and head shaking can often be linked to skin allergies, ear infections, or parasites like mites or fleas.
For the itching, you might want to start by checking her skin for any visible signs of redness, swelling, or parasites. Using a hypoallergenic shampoo can sometimes help soothe irritated skin. Since you mentioned she is on flea and tick prevention, ensure that the products are being used correctly and consistently.
Regarding the head shaking and ear issues, these symptoms often point to an ear infection. Common signs of an ear infection include redness, swelling, unusual odor, and discharge from the ears. You can gently clean her ears with a pet-safe ear cleaner to remove any debris, but be careful not to insert anything deep into the ear canal.
Given that these symptoms have been ongoing for three weeks and are causing her significant distress, it would be best to have her seen by a veterinarian. Ear infections and severe skin conditions can worsen without proper treatment, and a vet can provide the necessary medications to alleviate her discomfort and address the underlying cause.
If you have any further questions please ask us. Thank you.
Issue Details
Pet Information