The only disadvantage of MRI is the cost. How much does a dog MRI cost? The cost of a Dog MRI can vary across the country depending on factors such as the complexity of images required, the size of the dog, and whether other tests are necessary.
A dog’s MRI can be performed on almost any part of the body. The scan shows air and hard bones as black shapes. However, it provides a detailed view of soft tissues such as your dog’s spinal cord and brain.
Keep reading to find out more!
How Do I Describe a Dog MRI?
A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan is a noninvasive test that allows your veterinarian to see the internal organs of your dog.
MRIs are a better way to see inside your dog’s body than other diagnostic methods, such as X-rays or CT scans.
The high-quality images that an MRI can produce can help your veterinarian diagnose the causes of your dog’s illness.
Your dog will be sedated, and then placed in a large machine with a giant magnetic field.
The magnet will send radio waves through the dog’s body when it is on. These waves are then used to create detailed images.
Low-field and High-field MRI are the two main types of MRI in veterinary medicine. There are still some providers of low-field MRI. High-field MRI is a superior technology.
This is quicker. It is faster. It also provides more detail. It gives the veterinary neurologist a better picture, which leads to an accurate diagnosis.
Read also: Epidermal Collarette Dog Disease: Facts and Treatment
How Much Does A Dog MRI Cost?
How much does a dog MRI cost? An MRI can cost anywhere between $2,500 and $6,000. The scans can be expensive because MRI machines cost a lot of money to buy and many smaller veterinary clinics don’t even have them.
Your vet may refer you to an animal hospital that has a diagnostic imaging section and a radiologist. Why is there such an extensive range? MRI costs vary depending on which veterinary facility you choose.
Shop around for quotes and don’t hesitate to compare them. Your vet might already know which facilities have the lowest costs.
What are the Factors that May Affect How Much a Dog MRI Costs?
- Your dog will be put to sleep for the MRI because dogs cannot hold still for an entire scan that can last over an hour. The cost of general anaesthesia will depend on the size of your dog.
- The vet overseeing the procedure may also order blood tests to ensure that your dog’s health is sufficient for anaesthesia.
- Before your appointment, the facility will provide you with a quote. This quote will include hospital stays, IV fluids, catheters, and staff monitoring. These charges are often separated from the MRI cost.
MRIs can be more complex than X-rays or other diagnostics because your dog is anaesthetized. Your dog will undergo careful monitoring and stay in the hospital until it recovers from anaesthesia.
What Can Dog MRI Be Used To Diagnose?
MRI scans in dogs are used most commonly to diagnose brain and spinal problems. This diagnostic test is also used to determine the cause of other problems, such as knee and nerve issues.
- Tumours
- Inflammation
- Herniated discs
- Broken bones
- Strokes
- Meningitis
- Infections
- Orthopaedic issues
- Degenerative conditions like Intervertebral Disc Disease
Read also: A Perfect Explanation of EIC In Dogs
Conclusion
How Much Does A Dog MRI Cost? well, now you know! The decision to have your dog undergo MRI is based on one factor. Cost is an important factor, and that’s why you’re here.
Is cost really the most important factor in the end? You may be like us and the only thing you can pay for your dog’s worth is priceless.
You should only trust a team with your dog’s care if you are completely comfortable. It’s important to remember that MRI is not the end, but the beginning of a long journey for your dog.
Read also: If Black Fly Bites Dog Groin Treatment Is What?
FAQs Related to the Question, How Much Does a Dog MRI Cost?
What is the Difference Between a Dog MRI, CT Scan, and X-Ray?
| MRI | Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which uses different “pulse-sequences” to highlight various tissues, can provide a much better resolution of tissue.
MRIs can detect many diseases that CTs miss. |
| CT SCAN | The CT scan uses X-rays, a computer and a slice to create a picture of the body.
The organ overlap problem is eliminated, but the poor tissue resolution remains. When all the soft tissues are grey, it is difficult to detect small changes, as they occur in the spinal cord or brain. |
| X-RAY | Radiographs are inexpensive and quick tests that give a good overview of the body’s internal structure.
The air is black. Bone and metal are both white. The tissues such as the muscle, heart, stomach, and spleen, are similar shades of grey. Since X-rays can only produce a two-dimensional image, the organs will overlap. |
Will Pet Insurance Help With the Cost of My Dog MRI?
Pet insurance can cover costs such as an MRI, as well as any sedation or IV fluids required if your dog is experiencing seizures. Or if the vet wants to examine a broken bone more closely before performing surgery.
Pet insurance will not cover your dog’s MRI if the condition is pre-existing or if you haven’t met your plan’s waiting period.
What is Included in a Dog MRI Quote?
When a facility quotes a price for an MRI on your dog, it may not include the “all-in” price. The price quoted may not include the cost of additional items needed for the MRI:
- Physical Examination
- A neurologist will perform a neurological examination
- Anaesthesia for pets is only safe if it’s been tested with blood tests and X-rays
- IV catheter
- Anaesthesia
- Monitoring anaesthesia
- Hospitalization
About The Author
Discover more from Pestclue
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.