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Determine whether your dog's seizures may be caused by a problem inside the brain
A comprehensive neurological exam is included with every MRI scan. We offer a complete neuro evaluation for $150. Click for pricing
Normal bloodwork is reassuring, but it cannot show whether there is a structural change inside your dog’s brain.
Once bloodwork comes back normal and metabolic causes have been considered, a comprehensive neurological examination is often the next practical step in investigating the cause.
During the examination, our Medical Director, Dr. Mark Soderstrom, evaluates how your dog’s brain, spinal cord, nerves, balance system, reflexes, vision, and coordination are functioning.
The purpose of the exam is not to push every dog toward an MRI. It is to help owners and treating vets make a more informed decision regarding your dog's treatment.
My Dog Had A Seizure. What Do I do Now?
Watching your dog experience a seizure can leave you feeling helpless and unsure of what to do next.
The good news is that a seizure does not automatically mean your dog has a brain tumor or another serious neurological disease. Many dogs develop idiopathic epilepsy, meaning seizures occur without an identifiable structural abnormality in the brain.
But seizures can also be caused by:
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inflammation
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infection
- metabolic causes
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a congenital abnormality
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a stroke-like event
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a tumor, or another condition affecting the brain.
The International Veterinary Epilepsy Task Force (IVETF), recommends a structured diagnostic approach that uses the dog’s history, physical and neurological examinations, laboratory findings, age at seizure onset, and seizure pattern to determine whether advanced testing - such as MRI - is appropriate.
When Is A Brain MRI Likely To Be Recommended?
Advanced imaging may be considered when a dog:
- Has an abnormal neurological examination
- Experiences cluster seizures
- Has prolonged or unusually severe seizures
- Develops focal seizures affecting one area of the body
- Begins having seizures at less than 6 months old or older than 6 years
- Shows personality, vision, balance, or coordination changes
- Continues to worsen despite seizure medication
- Has increasingly frequent or progressive episodes
What Happens During The Examination?
Each $150 neuro exam includes:
A Detailed Seizure History
We review what happened before, during, and after the episode, along with your dog’s age, medical history, medications, seizure frequency, and any recent changes in behavior or movement.
A Comprehensive Neurological Examination
The veterinarian evaluates your dog’s:
- Mental awareness and behavior
- Walking and coordination
- Balance and head position
- Cranial nerve function
- Vision and pupil responses
- Limb placement
- Reflexes
- Neck and spinal comfort
A Clear Recommendation
After the examination, we explain whether the findings appear normal or abnormal and discuss the most appropriate next step.
That may include continued management with your regular veterinarian, additional laboratory testing, an MRI of the brain, or further neurological evaluation.
What If The Neurological Exam Is Normal?
A normal examination is reassuring, but it does not rule out every possible brain condition.
The veterinarian will consider the examination together with:
- Your dog’s age
- The type of seizure
- How frequently seizures are occurring
- Whether seizures happen in clusters
- How your dog behaves between episodes
- Response to seizure medication
- Your dog’s overall medical history
Can I just get the neurological exam without the MRI?
Absolutely. A standalone exam is $150. If you choose to follow-up with an MRI scan, your payment will be deducted from the scan.
A Simple Referral Process
Determining Your Pet's Scan
Our Medical Director will review your pet's medical records and determine the best scan option. On complex cases your pet will be scheduled for a comprehensive neurological/orthopedic exam prior to the scan.
Pre-Scan Preparation
Once the appropriate scan(s) are chosen, you'll be sent dietary instructions for your pet to follow on the day of the scan. In most cases, bloodwork has already been completed. If not, your vet's clinic can complete this lab work.
Images and Results
Once the MRI is completed, both you and your vet will receive a written report from a board-certified veterinary radiologist within 48 hours. Our team will follow up with the treating vet to facilitate treatment options.