Where to Find an MRI for Dogs Near Houston, Texas
Pet parents in the Houston area can find fast, accurate and high-quality diagnostic imaging for their furry friend through Sage Veterinary Imaging.
Imagine your furry friend, usually full of energy and joy, suddenly showing signs of discomfort or unusual symptoms. It’s a heart-wrenching experience for any pet pet parent. You want answers, and you want them fast. This is where an MRI can become an invaluable tool in diagnosing what’s going on beneath the surface.
If you’re a dog owner near Houston, Texas facing this dilemma, you’re not alone. This guide is designed specifically for you, to help navigate the process of getting an MRI for your dog.
We’ll cover why an MRI might be necessary, what to expect during the procedure, and where to find reliable services near Houston.
At Sage Veterinary Imaging, we understand how crucial it is to have accurate and timely diagnoses for your pets. That’s why we offer state-of-the-art MRI technology and expert care to ensure your pet gets the best possible treatment.
By the end of this guide, you'll know exactly how to get started with Sage Veterinary Imaging and help your dog on the path to better health.
Ready to dive in? Let’s explore how an MRI can provide the answers you need and why Sage Veterinary Imaging is the trusted choice for many pet owners in Spring and Houston, Texas!
Common Signs & Symptoms for an MRI for Dogs
Dogs, just like humans, can suffer from a variety of ailments that aren’t apparent on the surface. Understanding when your dog needs an MRI is so important in diagnosing and treating your pet’s condition effectively. And this goes without saying: taking timely action can make all the difference in your dog's health and quality of life.
Foot-dragging and depression are common signs. And there are many more symptoms that could indicate your pet needs an MRI:
Back pain
Seizures
Chronic nasal discharge
Oral tumors
Lameness or stiffness in the shoulder, elbow, or other joints
Unsteady gait
Circling, persistent head tilts, or other unusual behaviors
The first step if you notice any of these tell-tale signs? Consulting with your vet. However, if you’re unsure or need a specialized opinion, contacting a veterinary imaging center can provide further clarity and peace of mind.
Why Would My Dog Need an MRI?
MRI for dogs is typically used to diagnose more serious issues that other tests can’t identify. For animals with neurological problems such as seizures or an abnormal gait, an MRI can help rule out or confirm organic brain lesions.
Although sometimes frustrating, as some MRI studies turn up nothing abnormal, they often reveal brain tumors, slipped discs, spinal cancer, inner-ear infections, liver shunts, ACL tears, and various joint injuries.
Sage Veterinary Imaging uses this MRI machine on dogs and cats to take a deeper look at what’s going on beneath the surface.
How Does an MRI for Dogs Work?
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the most advanced imaging technique used in veterinary medicine. It provides detailed images of internal structures and reveals subtle abnormalities that cannot be identified with X-rays, radiographs, or CT scans. MRI is especially valuable for evaluating the brain and spinal cord, making it the gold standard for diagnosing diseases in these areas.
An MRI machine uses super-powerful magnets to create a magnetic field. When a patient is within this field, the protons in their body align with the magnetic field. Radio waves are then used during the scan to move these protons against the magnetic field.
Once the radio waves are turned off, the protons return to their original positions and send signals back to create an image. This image is then analyzed by a radiologist to understand what’s going on inside your pet.
Where Can I Find an MRI for Dogs Near Houston, TX?
Finding the right provider for your dog’s MRI involves considering factors like location, cost, and quality. Outpatient veterinary imaging centers, specialty veterinary hospitals, and small veterinary offices are common providers.
However, outpatient centers like Sage Veterinary Imaging offer several advantages, including having board-certified radiologists on staff who can read and interpret images accurately.
SVI offers:
State-of-the-art imaging.
Experienced staff with specialized training.
A compassionate approach to ensure your pet gets the care they need.
Many veterinary specialty hospitals in Houston may have MRI machines but might not have board-certified radiologists on staff. This means they often send their images to teleradiology services, which can delay diagnosis and treatment by 24-48 hours.
On the other hand, outpatient centers with full-time dedicated radiologists provide faster and more accurate diagnoses.
Additionally, outpatient imaging centers often offer lower costs compared to specialty hospitals because they don’t require long hospital stays. Most importantly, they can usually schedule an MRI for your dog on the same day you call, especially in urgent cases.
How Much Does an MRI for Dogs Cost?
The cost of an MRI for dogs in Houston can range from $2,500 to $5,000, depending on factors like the complexity of the required images, the size of your dog, and whether any additional tests are needed.
While this might seem high, most pet insurance plans cover diagnostic imaging, making it more affordable. Consulting with your veterinarian about the average cost and finding the right insurance plan can help manage these expenses.
Preparing for Your Pet’s MRI Appointment
Preparing your pet for an MRI involves a few important steps to ensure accurate results. Here’s what to expect:
Your pet will need to fast for about 12 hours before the scan to ensure the best imaging quality.
MRI requires your pet to remain still for several minutes, necessitating anesthesia. The risks are generally low, especially with state-of-the-art anesthesia and monitoring equipment operated by our experienced personnel.
Throughout the process, your pet’s comfort and safety are the top priorities. The imaging center’s team will be there every step of the way to support you and your pet.
Dr. Jaime Sage is the Chief Radiologist & Founder of Sage Veterinary Imaging, specializing in advanced diagnostic imaging for animals.
Why Choose Sage Veterinary Imaging in Spring, TX?
At Sage Veterinary Imaging, we pride ourselves on our expertise, knowledge, and experience. Our 3T MRI machine produces the highest quality images in half the time compared to older technologies, meaning your pet spends less time under anesthesia. Our board-certified radiologists are involved in every MRI case from start to finish, ensuring accurate diagnoses and the best possible care for your pet.
If you’re in the Houston, Texas area, and your dog needs an MRI, understanding the process and knowing where to go can alleviate some of the stress. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit our website or contact our Spring, Texas office directly. Your pet’s health and well-being are worth it!
