Dog MRI Referrals For Canine Spinal & Neurological Assessment
Dog MRI services are indicated for evaluation of canine spinal cord and neurological disease, where high-resolution soft-tissue assessment is required. Delivered via our sister hospital, Geelong Animal Referral Services (GARS), MRI supports diagnosis, lesion localisation and treatment planning in conditions including intervertebral disc disease, suspected disc herniation and spinal cord injury.
MRI Scans for Dogs
Neurological & spinal imaging (via GARS)
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is available to MARS referring veterinarians through our sister hospital, GARS. MRI is used to assess the spinal cord, nerve roots, and adjacent soft tissues in dogs with suspected neurological disease. This modality is particularly relevant in breed-associated disc disease and in dogs presenting with paresis or paralysis, where surgical decision-making is being considered. MRI scans provide diagnostic information not obtainable with radiography or CT and is used to guide diagnosis, localisation and treatment planning in complex neurological cases.Indications for MRI referral
MRI referral via GARS may be indicated for the investigation of:- Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)
- Suspected disc herniation with spinal cord compression
- Spinal cord injury
- Lumbosacral disease
- Cauda equina syndrome
- Acute or progressive paralysis
- Breed-associated disc disease, including dachshunds with suspected IVDD
MRI procedure & reporting
MRI studies are performed at GARS under general anaesthesia with continuous physiological monitoring. Images are reviewed by specialist clinicians, with a comprehensive report issued to the referring veterinarian, typically within 24–48 hours. Urgent cases are prioritised where clinically indicated.
Conditions commonly diagnosed by MRI Results
- IVDD, including acute disc extrusion
- Ruptured or slipped intervertebral discs
- Spinal instability
- Traumatic spinal cord injury
- Neoplastic disease affecting the spine or adjacent soft tissues, including osteosarcoma with neurological involvement
- Brain imaging
Referral pathway
MRI examinations are arranged by veterinary referral to GARS. Clinical history, neurological examination findings, and prior diagnostic studies are reviewed before scheduling to confirm suitability for MRI. Following imaging, findings and recommendations are communicated directly back to the referring clinic to support ongoing case management.
Key clinical points
- MRI is the preferred modality for spinal cord and intracranial neurological disease
- Provides superior soft-tissue contrast compared with CT
- Essential for pre-surgical localisation in IVDD cases when multiple lesions are present
- Supports differentiation between compressive and non-compressive spinal pathology
Frequently Asked Questions
Is MRI safe for dogs?
Yes. MRI is non-invasive and does not involve radiation. Anaesthesia is required and is carefully monitored throughout the procedure.
What conditions are commonly diagnosed using MRI?
MRI is commonly used to diagnose IVDD, spinal cord injury, lumbosacral disease, cauda equina syndrome, spinal neoplasia and other neurological conditions.
MRI allows differentiation between compressive lesions, inflammatory disease, neoplasia and degenerative conditions, supporting appropriate treatment planning.
MRI can clearly identify disc extrusion or compression and determine whether surgical intervention is required.
Is MRI better than CT for spinal conditions?
MRI provides superior detail of the spinal cord, nerves and soft tissues, making it the preferred imaging modality for neurological disease.
What is IVDD in dogs?
IVDD, or intervertebral disc disease, occurs when a disc between the vertebrae bulges or ruptures and places pressure on the spinal cord. This can cause pain, weakness or paralysis and is commonly seen in breeds such as Dachshunds.
In most cases, an MRI is required to confirm the affected disc space, assess the degree of spinal cord compression and guide the surgical approach.
Is an MRI necessary before IVDD surgery?
In most cases, yes. MRI allows accurate localisation of the affected disc and assessment of spinal cord compression, reducing surgical risk.
MRI provides superior visualisation of the spinal cord and intervertebral discs, allowing accurate localisation and characterisation of disc extrusion or protrusion. This information is essential for determining whether surgical or medical management is suitable.
How long does an MRI take?
The scan typically takes 45–90 minutes. Including preparation and recovery, most dogs remain in the hospital for several hours.
A full report is usually provided to the referring veterinarian within 24–48 hours, with urgent cases prioritised.
Reports include lesion localisation, interpretation of findings, differential diagnoses and recommendations for further management or referral where appropriate.
When is an MRI indicated in neurological cases?
MRI is indicated for dogs presenting with neurological signs suggestive of intracranial or spinal disease, particularly when detailed assessment of the spinal cord, nerve roots or soft tissues is required.
MRI provides superior soft-tissue contrast compared with CT and is the preferred modality for imaging the spinal cord, nerve roots, and brain. CT may be used for osseous assessment or where MRI is unavailable.
What is the cost of an MRI for dogs?
MRI costs vary based on anatomical region examined, scan duration, and reporting complexity. An itemised estimate is provided prior to booking and includes anaesthesia, monitoring, imaging time and interpretation.
How do I arrange an MRI referral?
MRI examinations are arranged via veterinary referral. Clinical history, neurological findings and previous diagnostics are reviewed prior to scheduling to confirm MRI is appropriate.