The Best Specialist for a Neurology case is a Board Certified Neurologist

Neurologists complete two to three years of intense training in lesion localization, diagnosis and treatment of neurological conditions. A great deal of time is spent studying pathology, anatomy, radiology, electrodiagnostics, advanced medical imaging (MRI, CT), and neurosurgery. A general exam, covering internal medicine and neurology is taken during the residency. Board certification is only achieved after passing a rigorous test encompassing all areas of neurology. There are presently less than two hundred ACVIM Board certified Neurologists in the world.

A Neurologist is the only specialist trained in localizing neurological lesions. Lesion localization is vital when planning an MRI. If you miss the lesion you miss the diagnosis!

A Neurologist is the only specialist trained in electrodiagnostics.

Surgery is not always in the best interest of a paralyzed or paretic pet and a Neurologist is the ideal specialist to determine the cause and treatment of such cases. If surgery is indicated, the Neurologist is trained specifically in neurosurgery.

A Neurologist has hours of training in cerebellomedullary punctures for spinal taps. This is extremely important, as a poorly placed spinal needle can cause damage to medullary structures in this area causing vestibular signs or death by pithing.

Meningitis is a common disease which is not commonly diagnosed by anyone other than a Neurologist. Cell counts need to be performed within a hour of the tap or the cells will lyse due to the low protein of spinal fluid. A Neurologist is trained to count blood cells in the fluid.

Do what’s best for your pets.  After all, you wouldn’t see a Dermatologist for a cardiac problem, so why see  a  specialist other than a Board Certified Neurologist for a neurological problem.