TREATMENT OPTIONS

There are many treatment options out there, no matter what the condition is. The purpose of this page is to provide you with knowledge of your options. The truth is that there are many vets who don't realize there are options out there to recommend to their patients, and there are also many managed vet practices and managed vet hospital practices that have a policy not to recommend patients (customers) to their competition, even if it's the best option for the patient.  There are still plenty of amazing vets and specialists who will bend over backwards to find the best specialists in the world to help, but the more information you are armed with, the better equipped you are to get the best possible care for your pup, even if your vet is in a situation where they don't know or can't refer.  A lot of vets are thankful to have their clients do their own research and even help provide them with new information too!  So don't be afraid to speak up, question things, do your own research and fight for what you believe to be right, and always follow your Gut Feeling. If something doesn't feel right - listen to that gut... find another specialist, another hospital, or if you feel something is weird with your pup get to the vet hospital ASAP - better safe than sorry.  

Before making ANY decisions, make sure you have gotten a PROPER Diagnosis from a Veterinary Neurologist.. If you don't have one within 3-5 hours.. On our Find A Veterinary Neurologist Page there are listings for Veterinary Neurologists who will do consultations with you and your vet (BE A PART OF THIS - don't just rely on your vet - you're paying for the consult - you have every right to be on that call! Plus you need to hear the knowledge first hand. Take Notes, and don't be afraid to ask if you can record the call and then ask for a copy of the neurologist's write up so you have the information handy.  Chances are this will all go over your head because so much is going on and you'll need to look back at your notes. 

It's ideal though to go to a Veterinary Neurologist and get a formal diagnosis from them.. THEN they will go over treatment options with you and you can ask about other options.. Keeping in mind that if their hospital doesn't offer something, they may not be allowed to recommend it or suggest /refer you because of the hospital policy.   Don't be afraid to do your own research and don't be afraid to get 2nd opinions if something doesn't feel right, and don't be afraid to ask for your records and go to another neurologist or specialist who provides the other service.. It's ok to have extra neurologists on your team.. If you work with multiple neurologists they WILL work together, but you may need to be the person taking the lead.