CARE’s board-certified neurologists focus on diseases that affect the brain, spinal cord and nerves. Some of the more common neurological disorders that our neurology and neurosurgery specialists treat include:
- Herniated disc(s)
- Epilepsy and other seizure disorders
- Stroke
- Traumatic spinal and/or head injury
- Hearing loss (BAER test)
- Vision loss
- Movement disorders (such as difficulty standing and walking)
Neurology and Neurosurgery Appointments
Our neurologists and registered veterinary technicians work closely with our patients’ family vets to review your pet’s medical history and previous diagnostic testing. When our neurologists examine your pet, the primary aim is to discover where in the nervous system your dog or cat has a problem.
Once we determine the location, we consider a list of possible causes. However, we often rely on advanced imaging (CT or MRI), to differentiate the possibilities.
Before we move to advanced imaging we discuss options with our clients to determine next steps.
Advanced Imaging
CARE offers on-site CT and MRI scanning that enable us to get your pet scheduled for advanced diagnostics rapidly. Further, CARE has a state-of-the-art 3D surgical exoscope, which allows for superior visualization during delicate neurosurgery. We are one of a few private veterinary practices with this technology.
Treatment
At CARE, we emphasize the importance of discussing your pet’s treatment options along with medical management options for your pet. We have a dedicated, fully equipped neurosurgical suite should your pet require surgery. CARE’s overall goal is to treat our patients in the most effective and efficient way. We want to get them home as quickly as we can while experiencing the best long-term results.
Once your pet has returned home, we continue to provide personalized care and work cooperatively with your family veterinarian to ensure the best possible long-term outcome for your pet.
How to Schedule An Appointment
To schedule an appointment with our Neurology and Neurosurgery department, ask for a referral from your primary veterinarian. If your pet is unable to walk or seems to be in an emergency state, please call (704) 457-2300 to let us know you are bringing him or her in through our Emergency Service. We are open 24/7/365 for emergency care.
Recent Neurology & Neurosurgery Blog Posts
BAER Test: A Method Of Measuring Hearing Loss in Dogs
To test hearing in animals, owners and veterinarians can test a patient’s response to high-pitched noises, such as whistling, or loud noises, such as clapping hands or banging an object. Though simple, this is the most practical way to know if an animal can hear....
How To Video Your Pet For A Neurological Consultation
Of all the technologies that have emerged in recent years, the smart phone may be the most powerful tool in veterinary neurology. Yes, smart phones have been more impactful than MRI, CT scans, 3D Operational Exoscopes and Electrodiagnostic Machines. The ever-present...
CT or MRI To Diagnose Nervous System Problems
While examining a dog or cat for a neurological problem, a neurologist’s primary aim is to pinpoint where exactly the problem is located in the nervous system. We do not start with a CT or MRI. Instead, we begin by asking our patients a series of questions. For...
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)
Intervertebral discs are the cushions between the vertebra (the bones between the spinal column). Their anatomy is often compared to that of a jelly doughnut with a gelatinous center surrounded by an outer shell. Intervertebral discs function to (1) hold the spinal...
Horner’s Syndrome
Horner’s Syndrome is a common neurological disorder that affects the eye. A combination of signs can occur caused by the disruption of a nerve pathway from the brain to the eye and surrounding structures on one side of the body. Causes Most commonly, we do not find an...
Seizures, Fits, Or Spells – What Is Happening And What Can I Do To Help My Pet
You’re relaxing on the couch while your dog sleeps soundly beside you. All of a sudden, he looks up at you with a glazed appearance, and his legs start to stiffen. He falls on his side; his jaw starts chattering and his legs start paddling. It lasts for less than a...
