Pet Neurosurgery

At EcoVets Specialists & ER, we understand the stress and concern that comes when your pet needs specialized neurological care. Dr. Brett Darrow, DVM and our dedicated team provide expert pet neurosurgery services to address complex neurological conditions affecting your beloved companion.

We combine advanced surgical techniques with compassionate care to help your pet return to a comfortable, active lifestyle. Our focus is always on minimizing pain and maximizing quality of life for your furry family member.

Understanding Pet Neurosurgery

Pet neurosurgery refers to specialized surgical procedures that treat conditions affecting an animal’s brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nervous system. These sophisticated interventions address a range of issues including intervertebral disc disease, spinal trauma, brain tumors, and congenital abnormalities.

The process typically involves advanced diagnostic imaging such as MRI and CT scans to precisely identify neurological problems before surgical treatment. This specialized care is essential for pets suffering from mobility issues, pain, or loss of normal function due to neurological disorders.

Our Pet Neurosurgery Services

Our comprehensive pet neurosurgery services address a wide range of neurological conditions affecting dogs and cats. We offer specialized procedures tailored to your pet’s specific diagnosis and needs. Dr. Brett Darrow, DVM, and our skilled team combine years of experience with advanced technology to provide exceptional surgical outcomes.

Hemilaminectomy

A hemilaminectomy is a surgical procedure commonly performed to treat intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) in dogs and cats. This precision surgery involves removing a portion of the vertebral bone to access and remove disc material that’s compressing the spinal cord. At EcoVets Specialists & ER, we perform this delicate procedure using microsurgical techniques to minimize trauma to surrounding tissues. This approach often results in a dramatic improvement for pets suffering from pain, weakness, or paralysis due to disc herniation, particularly in breeds predisposed to IVDD like Dachshunds, Corgis, and Beagles.

Ventral Slot

The ventral slot procedure is specifically designed to address disc herniations in the neck region of your pet. This specialized neurosurgical technique creates a small window in the vertebrae to access and remove disc material pressing on the spinal cord. Our surgeons at EcoVets Specialists & ER utilize specialized equipment and magnification to perform this intricate surgery with exceptional precision. Pets suffering from neck pain, difficulty walking, or weakness in their front limbs often experience significant relief following this procedure, which is commonly recommended for breeds like Dobermans, Great Danes, and Boxers with cervical disc disease.

Spinal Fracture Repair

Traumatic injuries from accidents or falls can result in spinal fractures that threaten your pet’s mobility and quality of life. Our advanced spinal fracture repair techniques stabilize damaged vertebrae using specialized implants such as pins, screws, and plates. The EcoVets Specialists & ER surgical team employs meticulous planning using diagnostic imaging to determine the optimal approach for each unique fracture pattern. This precise reconstruction restores spinal stability, protects the spinal cord from further damage, and provides the foundation for your pet’s recovery and rehabilitation process after serious trauma.

Orthopedic Surgery

Neurosurgery

Soft Tissue Surgery

Rehabilitation

Our Pet Neurosurgery Process

Comprehensive Evaluation

We begin with a detailed neurological examination and review of your pet’s medical history to identify the exact issue affecting their nervous system. Advanced diagnostics including MRI or CT scans may be recommended to visualize the problem area with precision. This thorough assessment helps us determine if surgery is the most appropriate treatment option for your pet’s specific condition.

Personalized Surgical Planning

Based on diagnostic findings, we develop a customized surgical approach tailored to your pet’s unique neurological condition and overall health status. We discuss all treatment options, potential outcomes, and recovery expectations during this planning phase. Our team takes time to address your questions and concerns, ensuring you fully understand the recommended procedure before moving forward.

Advanced Surgical Techniques

On surgery day, your pet receives state-of-the-art anesthesia monitoring and pain management protocols specifically designed for neurosurgical patients. Our surgical team utilizes specialized equipment and precise techniques to address the neurological issue while minimizing trauma to surrounding tissues. Throughout the procedure, dedicated technicians continuously monitor your pet’s vital signs to ensure their safety and comfort.

Specialized Recovery Support

Following surgery, we provide comprehensive aftercare instructions covering medication, wound care, and appropriate activity restrictions for your pet. We may recommend environmental modifications for your home—such as non-slip flooring or supportive harnesses—to promote safe recovery. Our team demonstrates proper handling techniques and discusses nutrition strategies to support healing during this critical recovery period.

Thorough Post-Operative Care

Regular follow-up appointments allow us to monitor your pet’s progress and adjust the recovery plan as needed. These visits include neurological assessments to evaluate improvement in function and determine when activity levels can be gradually increased. For many patients, we incorporate rehabilitation therapies to maximize recovery potential and help your pet return to a comfortable, active lifestyle.

Why Choose Us for Pet Neurosurgery

At EcoVets Specialists & ER, we distinguish ourselves through a rare combination of technical excellence and genuine compassion for your pet’s neurological health. Our surgical suite features specialized equipment designed specifically for delicate neurosurgical procedures, allowing for precision that directly translates to better outcomes and faster recoveries.

Dr. Brett Darrow brings specialized training in advanced neurosurgical techniques that aren’t widely available, ensuring your pet benefits from the latest innovations in veterinary neurosurgery. Beyond technical expertise, we recognize the emotional toll of having a pet with neurological issues, which is why we prioritize clear communication throughout treatment—explaining complex medical concepts in accessible terms and keeping you informed at every stage of your pet’s care.

FAQs

What is the animal neuro-myofascial release technique?

Animal neuro-myofascial release is a specialized manual therapy that addresses restrictions in the fascial system surrounding nerves and muscles in pets. This gentle hands-on approach uses sustained pressure and specific stretching to release tension in connective tissues, helping reduce pain and improve mobility in patients recovering from neurological conditions.

What parts of a dog neuro exam test for pain?

A veterinary neurological exam tests for pain through spinal palpation, deep pain perception in the toes, and controlled neck manipulation in various directions. These assessments help identify the location and severity of neurological problems by observing reactions like vocalization, muscle tensing, or withdrawal responses.

Can sepsis cause neuro problems in dogs?

Yes, sepsis can cause neurological problems in dogs when infection crosses the blood-brain barrier, potentially resulting in encephalitis, meningitis, or swelling in the brain. The inflammatory response and metabolic disturbances from sepsis can lead to altered mental status, seizures, or coordination problems that require immediate medical intervention.

Precision Care for Your Pet’s Neurological Needs

Don’t let neurological conditions limit your pet’s quality of life when specialized care is available right here in your community. Contact EcoVets Specialists & ER today at 904-417-8589 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Brett Darrow, DVM, who can evaluate your pet’s condition and discuss how our advanced neurosurgical options might help restore their comfort and mobility.

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