Don’t Miss These Common Signs of Nervous System Problems in Small Dogs
AND Why 3T MRI is a MUST for Diagnosis
What is a central nervous system disorder in small dog breeds?
Pets can experience many of the same neurological disorders that humans do. Neurological disorders are illnesses that affect and start in your pet’s nervous system. These disorders can target the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. Common symptoms might include:
Circling
Disorientation
Head pressing
Inability to use one or more limbs
Vocalization, sensitivity to touch, and/or behavior changes indicating pain
Seizures
Sudden, unexplained weakness, and/or stumbling
Common signs and symptoms that indicate an MRI is needed.
How are neurological disorders usually diagnosed?
The spinal cord carries information around your pet’s body through the central nervous system. Mapping the nervous system and identifying possible neurological diseases can be done by using various medical techniques such as electroencephalography (EEG), computerized tomography (CT scan or CAT scan), or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI scan).
What is a 3T MRI and why would my small dog need one?
Sage Veterinary Imaging will work with your veterinarian to use imaging techniques such as an MRI or CT scan to find the cause of the symptoms. An MRI can be used to diagnose issues with the brain and central nervous system such as seizures, unusual walking patterns, or back problems. Although the conditions that affect a dog’s nervous system don’t vary significantly between smaller or larger dogs, some conditions can be particularly aggressive in certain breeds. The 3T MRI at Sage Veterinary Imaging offers twice the accuracy in half the time. This is especially important in small dog breeds such as Chihuahuas, Yorkshire Terriers, Dachshunds, and French bulldogs.
How does diagnostic imaging work?
An MRI is often used to diagnose problems with the brain and central nervous system because it’s particularly good for looking at soft tissue structures. An MRI produces a strong magnetic field that forces protons in the pet’s body to align with the field. When a radiofrequency current is pulsed through the pet, the protons spin out of equilibrium. When the radiofrequency is turned off, MRI sensors detect the energy released as the protons realign. The faster the protons align, the brighter the MRI image.
Sage Veterinary Imaging’s powerful 3T MRI uses a magnetic field, radio waves, and a computer to produce detailed pictures of organs, soft tissues, and other internal body structures.
Sage Veterinary Imaging’s 3T MRI produces research-grade, high-quality diagnostic images in roughly half the time when compared to older technology.
Improve Outcomes with 3T MRI for Dogs
Some MRI studies turn up nothing abnormal. But common findings impacting neurological health include tumors, slipped discs, cancer, or inner-ear infections. After determining a diagnosis, we work closely with you, your veterinarian, and our network of specialists to determine the best course of treatment.
Where to Find MRI for Dogs in Texas or Utah
Sage Veterinary Imaging in Sandy, Utah
Sage Veterinary Imaging has offices in Round Rock, Texas and Sandy, Utah. Dr. Jaime Sage, the founder, received her veterinary training at Texas A&M. After completing a radiology residency, she received further training as an MRI specialist with Patrick Gavin, Ph.D., DACVR/RO, one of the early pioneers of veterinary MRI.
Dr. Sage is currently president of the CT/MRI society of the American College of Veterinary Radiology and has issued over 20,000 MRI reports over the past 15 years. She lectures frequently at meetings and conferences worldwide.
For more information on where to find an MRI for dogs in Texas or Utah, go to our Contact Us page to learn more.
References:
https://www.nibib.nih.gov/science-education/science-topics/magnetic-resonance- imaging-mri
https://www.petmd.com/dog/care/how-mri-can-help-your-dog
