Neurology
Specialist veterinary neurology
Expert Neurology and Neurosurgery Care for Dogs and Cats
If your pet is experiencing seizures, paralysis, weakness, difficulty walking, neck or back pain, balance problems, or other neurological symptoms, our specialist neurology team is here to help.
QVS provides advanced diagnosis, treatment and long-term management of conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord, nerves and muscles.
Using advanced diagnostic imaging and specialised testing, we work to identify the cause of your pet’s symptoms and develop a treatment plan tailored to their individual needs.
Why might my pet need a neurology consultation?
Common conditions we diagnose and treat include:
Brain Disorders
- Epilepsy and complex seizure disorders
- Brain tumours
- Hydrocephalus and CSF disorders
- Inflammatory brain diseases
- Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)
- Myelitis
- Degenerative spinal conditions
- Spinal tumours
- Peripheral neuropathies
- Myopathies
- Neuromuscular junction disorders
- Peripheral and central vestibular disease
- Balance disorders and unexplained head tilt
What to expect at your appointment
A detailed neurological examination is then performed to determine where in the nervous system the problem is originating. This process, known as neurolocalisation, is one of the most important steps in identifying the underlying cause and planning the most effective treatment.
Additional testing may be recommended to confirm a diagnosis, including:
- MRI
- Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis
- Electromyography (EMG)
- Nerve conduction studies
Neurosurgery
Some neurological conditions are best managed surgically. We offer advanced procedures including:
- Surgery for Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)
- Spinal decompression and stabilisation
- Brain and spinal tumour surgery
- Shunt placement for hydrocephalus
Every surgical patient is supported by our specialist anaesthesia team, ensuring the highest standards of anaesthetic monitoring, pain management and recovery care.
Neuro rehabilitation
Recovery from neurological disease often continues long after a patient leaves hospital.
Our neuro rehabilitation service supports pets recovering from neurological injury or surgery, as well as those living with chronic paralysis or neurological pain. The goal is to maximise comfort, improve function and support the best possible quality of life.
BAER hearing testing
QVS offers Brainstem Auditory Evoked Response (BAER) testing to assess hearing in dogs and puppies.
Our service includes:
- Individual hearing assessments
- Full-litter testing
- Breeder pricing
- Same-day results
BAER testing is commonly recommended for breeds predisposed to congenital deafness, including:
- Dalmatians
- Australian Cattle Dogs
- English Setters
- Cocker Spaniels
- Jack Russell Terriers
- Boston Terriers
Breeders booking litters do not require a referral. Individual pets require a referral from their primary care veterinarian.
Why choose QVS?
At QVS, your pet benefits from access to a truly collaborative specialist team. Our neurologists work closely with specialists in surgery, internal medicine, diagnostic imaging, emergency and critical care, and anaesthesia to provide comprehensive care under one roof.
As the Sunshine Coast’s only practising specialist neurology service, we are committed to delivering advanced neurological care while supporting pets and their families through every stage of diagnosis, treatment and recovery.
Referrals and enquiries
Our neurology service is led by Dr Dillon Devathasan.
The neurology team accepts referrals for consultations and procedures at QVS Sunshine Coast and Stafford hospitals. Just chat with your local GP vet about a referral.
If you’re a veterinarian and would like to discuss a case, our team is always happy to help determine the most appropriate referral pathway. Phone: 07 5436 1500 Email: scneuro@qvs.com.au