In this illuminating episode of Diagnostic Tails, Dr. Amy Armentrout and Dr. Lon Hayes sit down with board-certified veterinary neurologist and neurosurgeon, Dr. Jennifer Rich. Together, they demystify the complex world of neurology—from simple localization techniques to advanced imaging decisions—making it more approachable for general practitioners.

Dr. Rich shares invaluable tips for performing neurologic exams, choosing the right imaging modality, and determining when a spinal tap or MRI is truly necessary. Through real-life cases, including a Cavalier with overlapping diagnoses and a cat with a massive meningioma, listeners gain a deeper understanding of how to think critically about neurologic cases. Plus, Dr. Rich emphasizes that neurology, when broken down into practical steps, is not only manageable—but fun.

⏱️ Timestamps & Topics

00:00 - Introduction to Diagnostic Tails & Dr. Jennifer Rich

02:00 - Why Dr. Rich started a teleconsultation neurology service

04:00 - Keeping an open mind in vet school and choosing neurology

05:30 - The “big picture” breakdown of neurologic exams

08:00 - Deciding when and what to image: localization tips

10:30 - A Cavalier case: When the MRI doesn't match the clinical picture

14:00 - Degenerative myelopathy: Not just a German Shepherd problem

16:30 - The role of CSF taps and when to use them

18:30 - Most rewarding case: Meningitis with a literal “luge” of pus

21:00 - Least favorite: A tough case of discospondylitis

23:00 - Neurologic emergencies: When a seizure is serious

25:30 - Most common neuro cases by breed: Frenchies, Border Collies, and Dachshunds

28:00 - Old dog vestibular disease vs. seizure: How to tell the difference

32:30 - Steroids: When and how to use them in neurologic cases

34:30 - Feline neurology: Meningiomas, seizures, and carts for paralyzed cats

37:30 - Final takeaway: Neurology doesn’t have to be scary—follow the breadcrumbs

Notable Quotes

“Neurology is fun—it just presents itself if you listen to the clues.”

“An MRI tells us a lot, but the patient tells us everything.”

Resources & Takeaways

Quick Localization Framework (Dr. Rich’s Simplified Approach):

• Forebrain: Personality changes, circling, contralateral deficits
• Brainstem (hindbrain): Cranial nerve deficits
• Spinal Cord: Normal brain, weakness, proprioceptive deficits
• Spinal Nerves: Reflex deficits, flaccid paresis

Practical Tools for General Practitioners:

• Always get a thorough history + home videos when possible
• Use bloodwork + physical exam to assess imaging risk
• Don’t default to full-body imaging—localize first
• CSF tap = only after imaging and with safety confirmed
• Be cautious with steroids

📆 Upcoming CE Event

🧠 Neurology CE Day with Dr. Jennifer Rich – July 12th

Start the day with tech-focused positioning training and finish with practical neuro pearls from Dr. Rich herself.

Animal Imaging Veterinary Radiology Specialists

https://animalimaging.net/

(972) 869-2180

info@animalimaging.net

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Linked In https://www.linkedin.com/company/animalimaging

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