Sometimes you notice your dog isn’t moving as well as usual. They walk unsteadily, fall over, or react strangely to touch. In such cases, a veterinarian can refer you to a specialist: a veterinary neurologist. This specialist will perform a neurological examination to determine if there’s anything wrong with your dog’s brain, nerves, or spinal cord. This examination may include a physical examination, reflex tests, and sometimes an MRI or CT scan. It may sound daunting, but it’s often necessary to determine exactly what’s wrong. In this blog post, we’ll explain what such an examination entails, what it costs, and how pet insurance can help.
When does your dog need a neurological exam?
A neurological examination isn’t necessary for every dog. It’s only performed if there are clear signs that something is wrong with the nervous system. For example, consider:
- Sudden paralysis in legs or tail
- Seizures or epileptic attacks
- Trouble walking or staggering
- Shaking of the head or tremors in the body
- Crooked headstand or squinting
- Not responding to touch or sound
- Behavioral changes such as suddenly becoming aggressive or listless
If you notice one or more of these symptoms in your dog, always consult your veterinarian first. They can determine whether a referral to a neurologist is necessary.
Costs of a neurological examination of a dog
The cost of a neurological examination for your dog can be quite high. On average, you’ll pay between €400 and €1,500, depending on the specifics. An initial consultation with a specialist often costs around €150. If an MRI or CT scan is needed afterward, that can easily add hundreds of euros. Sometimes additional blood tests or a spinal tap are also necessary. There may also be additional costs for hospitalization or aftercare. Therefore, it’s wise to request a quote from your veterinarian or specialist beforehand. This way, you’ll avoid any surprises and know what to expect.
How are these costs calculated?
The cost of a neurological examination for a dog consists of several components. Together, these determine the total price:
- The first consultation with the neurologist or specialist
- Physical and neurological examination by the veterinarian
- Use of expensive equipment such as MRI or CT scans
- Possible anesthesia if the dog cannot lie still
- Additional tests, such as blood tests or a spinal tap
- Admission to the clinic before or after the examination
- The experience and knowledge of the specialist, which is included in the price
So it’s not just a simple examination. There’s a lot involved in making the correct diagnosis and helping your dog properly.
Are neurological exams covered by pet insurance?
Many people wonder if pet insurance covers such high costs. This depends on the policy and the package you choose. Important points to consider are:
- Basic insurance often does not cover specialist care
- Comprehensive packages often include coverage for neurological examinations
- MRI and CT scans are sometimes only covered by supplementary insurance
- There is usually a maximum reimbursement per year
- You often pay a deductible per treatment or per year
- Not all insurers cover hereditary or congenital conditions
- The policy conditions vary greatly per insurer
It’s wise to carefully compare which insurance policy suits you and your dog. Our dog insurance comparison tool makes it easy to find the best fit for you and your dog. This way, you can avoid high unexpected costs.
Pet insurance vs. paying out-of-pocket: which is smarter?
A neurological exam can easily cost hundreds to thousands of euros. If you don’t have pet insurance, you’ll have to pay these costs entirely out of pocket. This can be a significant financial burden, especially if further treatments or surgery are required. With good pet insurance, you usually only pay the premium and a deductible. The insurance then covers a large portion of the costs. In the long run, insurance can save you a lot of money, especially if your dog unexpectedly becomes ill. It also provides peace of mind, as you don’t have to worry about whether you have enough money to provide your dog with the best care.
What should you pay attention to when choosing pet insurance?
When choosing pet insurance, it’s important to carefully consider what is and isn’t covered. For example, pay attention to:
- The maximum reimbursement per year or per treatment
- Whether specialist care, such as neurological examination, is covered
- The deductible per treatment or per year
- Whether hereditary and congenital conditions are covered
- The waiting period before the insurance takes effect
- Extras such as additional packages for scans or rehabilitation
- Reviews and experiences from other pet owners
Conclusion
A neurological exam for your dog can quickly cost thousands of euros, especially if it involves scans, anesthesia, or hospitalization. With good pet insurance, you’ll not only save money but also avoid the stress if your dog suddenly needs care. When choosing insurance, consider things like maximum reimbursements, coverage for specialist care, deductibles, and waiting periods. Use our handy comparison tool to quickly find the best dog insurance for your situation. This way, you can be sure your dog receives the right care without unexpected costs. View the options now and easily find the right insurance policy using our dog insurance comparison tool .
