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Why is my senior Lab wobbly, circling, and lethargic after ivermectin?

Updated on September 23, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Golden Labrador | Male | unneutered | 9 years old | 74 lbs

My 9 year old male Labrador past two months showing these problem - wobbly walk,circling, pacing,one side head tilt ,falling while doing poop, lethargic, jerking, restlessness, antianxiety, always lying can't sit. vet prescribed him multivitamins & antianxiety drugs but the problem remain the same.one month back he had ivermactin inj. To treat eye worms after then his situation not stable.his blood report doesnot show any kind of infection except thyroid levels - TSH (3rd gen) - 0.171 Help plz.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA

Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on July 23, 2019

The symptoms you have described fit with a neurologic problem. Oscar needs a thorough neurologic examination to localize the possible lesion - is it the inner ear, vestibular system of the brain, a different part of the brain, or the spinal cord. Some higher doses of ivermectin can cause neurologic issues, and permanent damage is possible. There may not be a cure, but accurate diagnosis is necessary first. I would talk to your vet about referral to a specialist.
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