What does a veterinary neurologist do?

What is a Veterinary Neurologist?

Veterinary neurologists are specialized veterinarians with advanced training in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders affecting the nervous system of animals, ranging from small animals like dogs and cats to larger ones like horses.

Animals, like humans, can suffer from a variety of neurological conditions that can affect their ability to move, function, and behave normally. Veterinary neurologists address seizures, spinal cord injuries, brain tumors, inflammatory diseases of the nervous system, and degenerative disorders.

What does a Veterinary Neurologist do?

Duties and Responsibilities
The primary responsibilities of the veterinary neurologist include:

• Patient Assessment – evaluating medical history, including previous illnesses and treatments, to gather relevant information about the patient's condition; performing detailed physical examinations to identify signs and symptoms of neurological disorders
• Diagnostic Evaluation – conducting thorough neurological examinations to assess motor function, coordination, reflexes, and other neurological parameters; utilizing advanced diagnostic tools such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT) scans, and cerebrospinal fluid analysis to identify and localize neurological abnormalities
• Interpretation of Diagnostic Results – analyzing and interpreting imaging studies, laboratory results, and other diagnostic tests to formulate an accurate diagnosis; collaborating with other specialists, such as radiologists and pathologists, to obtain comprehensive insights into the patient's condition
• Treatment Planning – developing comprehensive treatment plans tailored to the specific neurological condition of the patient; prescribing medications, surgeries, rehabilitation, or other therapeutic interventions to manage neurological disorders
• Surgical Procedures – performing surgical procedures on patients requiring brain or spinal surgery
• Client Communication – effectively communicating with pet owners to explain the diagnosis, treatment options, and prognosis; providing guidance on at-home care and follow-up appointments
• Collaboration with Veterinary Teams – working closely with general practitioners, veterinary surgeons, internists, diagnostic imaging experts, and other specialists to provide integrated care for the patient; participating in multidisciplinary teams to address complex cases that involve multiple medical disciplines
• Emergency and Critical Care – managing neurological emergencies and providing critical care when necessary; collaborating with emergency and critical care teams to ensure timely and effective intervention for acute cases
• Compassionate Patient Care – demonstrating empathy and compassion in the treatment of animal patients and their owners
• Ethical Considerations – adhering to ethical standards and guidelines of veterinary practice; upholding the principles of animal welfare and advocating for the best interests of the patients
• Continuing Education – staying current with the latest advancements in veterinary neurology through continuous education and professional development
• Research and Publications – contributing to the field of veterinary neurology through research activities; publishing findings in scientific journals and sharing knowledge with the veterinary community
• Administrative Tasks – maintaining accurate patient records and documentation, responding to emails, phone calls, and inquiries from clients and colleagues

Types of Veterinary Neurologists
Now that we have a sense of the scope of the veterinary neurologist’s work, let’s look at some different types of veterinary neurologists, based on their professional focus:

• Veterinary Neurosurgeons – Some veterinary neurologists specialize in neurosurgery, focusing on surgical interventions for conditions affecting the brain and spinal cord. This may include procedures such as tumor removal, spinal decompression, or the treatment of congenital abnormalities.
• Veterinary Epileptologists – Epileptologists within veterinary neurology specialize in the diagnosis and management of epilepsy and seizure disorders in animals.
• Veterinary Rehabilitation Specialists – Veterinary neurologists with a focus on rehabilitation may work closely with physical therapists and rehabilitation specialists to design and implement rehabilitation programs for animals recovering from neurological disorders or surgeries.
• Veterinary Diagnostic Imaging Specialists – Some veterinary neurologists may specialize in diagnostic imaging, becoming experts in interpreting advanced imaging tests such as MRI and CT scans. They play a crucial role in accurately diagnosing and planning treatment for neurological conditions.
• Research-Oriented Veterinary Neurologists – Veterinary neurologists involved in research focus on advancing the understanding of neurological diseases in animals. They may work on clinical trials, investigate new treatment modalities, or contribute to scientific literature.

It's essential to note that while these specializations exist, many veterinary neurologists maintain a broad scope of practice and are capable of managing a wide range of neurological conditions. Specialization often occurs within the context of larger veterinary hospitals or academic institutions where a team of specialists collaborates to provide comprehensive care for patients. Additionally, the availability of specialized services may vary depending on the resources of the veterinary practice or hospital.

What is the workplace of a Veterinary Neurologist like?

Veterinary neurologists can work for various entities within the veterinary and animal healthcare industry. These are among their most common employers:

• Veterinary Hospitals and Clinics – Large veterinary hospitals and specialty clinics often employ veterinary neurologists as part of their team of specialists. These facilities provide comprehensive veterinary care and may have departments dedicated to neurology.
• Veterinary Specialty Referral Centers – Specialized referral centers focus on providing advanced and specialized veterinary services. Veterinary neurologists may be employed by these centers to handle complex cases referred by general practitioners. These centers typically have advanced diagnostic and treatment capabilities.
• Academic Institutions – Veterinary schools and veterinary teaching hospitals may employ veterinary neurologists as faculty members. In addition to clinical work, neurologists in this setting may be involved in teaching veterinary students, conducting research, and contributing to academic programs.
• Research Institutions – Some veterinary neurologists may work in research institutions where they can focus on advancing the understanding of neurological diseases in animals. This may involve participation in research projects, clinical trials, and scientific publications.
• Pharmaceutical Companies – Veterinary neurologists may work for pharmaceutical companies involved in the development of medications and treatments for neurological disorders in animals.
• Government Agencies – Veterinary neurologists may be employed by government agencies or departments related to animal health and welfare. They may be involved in public health initiatives, disease control, and regulatory activities.
• Private Practice – Some veterinary neurologists choose to establish private practices, offering specialized neurological services to pet owners and receiving referrals from general veterinary practitioners. In this environment, they may work in collaboration with other specialists or as solo practitioners.
• Non-profit Organizations – Veterinary neurologists may work for non-profit organizations dedicated to animal welfare and health. These organizations may provide veterinary services, conduct research, and contribute to education and advocacy efforts.

In summary, the workplace of a veterinary neurologist is dynamic and may include clinical, teaching, and research components, depending on the specific role and setting. In clinical environments, neurologists spend their time in examination rooms, diagnostic imaging facilities, surgical suites, and recovery areas for post-operative care. Common academic setting workplaces include lecture halls, laboratories, and research facilities.