MRI stands for Magnetic Resonance Imaging. It is a medical technique used to form pictures of the anatomy and physiological processes of the body by employing strong magnetic fields and radio waves. MRI scans provide a lot of useful information to the doctors to get a good understanding of a patient’s condition. MRI scans can be used in diagnosing a variety of diseases and conditions.
No animal on this planet is invincible, they all get ill and face medical issues. But unlike humans, who have extravagant medical facilities available. Other animals don’t get such privileges. but now a change is coming to improve medical facilities for not only humans but other animals as well.
MRI Scans
MRI scans are introduced for animals that produce clear and accurate images for the veterinarian to get a good understanding of the body’s condition.
let’s take the example of our favorite animal, a dog.
A dog can face many medical issues that too in the same area of the body. Due to this, it becomes difficult for a veterinarian to identify the reason for the dog’s illness.
MRI Scan allows them to find the exact cause of the dog’s discomfort so that it can be treated accordingly.
Though, most people avoid MRI scans for their pets, because they believe the radiation can harm them. But there is nothing like that, MRI scans don’t use radiation to produce images of the body. So, it is secure to go for them.
Rather people should take their dog or any other pets for MRI scans once in a while, to make sure that they are sound and healthy. It does not consume much of your time. It takes around 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on the body part to be scanned to complete the whole procedure.
Concerning About MRI
But one thing, most people are concerned about is the cost of the whole procedure.
Many people complain that the cost of my dog’s MRI is more than mine, Yes it is higher and there are reasons for it as well.
Hospitals perform hundreds of MRI scans on people daily which makes the overall cost of the scan low, but the veterinary hospitals perform hardly 1-2 MRI scans in a day which raises the cost.
Not only that, It is necessary to lay still during the MRI scan to produce clear and accurate pictures. But our pets will not stay still, so anesthesia is used on them for the procedure which raises the cost.
The cost of an MRI for a dog can fall anywhere between 2500$ to 5000$ varying based on the size of the dog, blood tests required, body part to be scanned, region of the hospital, etc.
Though, the good thing is many insurance companies provide pet insurance that covers such expenses, so you can claim it.
Now, keeping all things in mind.
Should you consider MRI for your dog?
The answer would be yes.
Your dog faces many complexities which never come to its face, But are there causing discomfort. It can be tumors, inflammation, herniated discs, stenosis, etc. You would never come to know about these complexities unless your dog undergoes an MRI scan. MRI scans can help with the early diagnosis of diseases that can be life-threatening so that appropriate steps can be taken to avoid them.
Conclusion
Moreover, it is safer for your dog or any other pet to undergo an MRI scan as it does not include the use of radiation like CT scans.
So, you should take precautions and perform an MRI scan on your dog or pet once in a while to avoid any significant health problems.
Are there any side effects of an MRI scan?
No, there are no known side effects. It is safe for your pet.
How much time it will take?
It will take around 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on the various factors.
Any prerequisite before undergoing MRI scans?
Yes, withhold your pet’s food for 12 hours before the scan.
Which would be a better choice CT scan or an MRI scan?
An MRI scan would be preferred because it produces better pictures and does not use radiation.
Will my pet be fine after anesthesia?
Yes, most of the pets are fine after it. While some may face some weakness, that too will go after some rest.
Will an MRI scan guarantee the good health of my pet?
No, an MRI scan can only help you diagnose your pet for medical issues so that appropriate steps can be taken to avoid any serious condition. It does not necessarily guarantee good health.
