Veterinary Emergency & Urgent Care
I Have An Emergency
Veterinary Neurology & Seizure Care for Dogs and Cats in Oakdale & St. Paul, MN
When pets show signs of neurological problems—like seizures, difficulty walking, or sudden changes in coordination—it can be a stressful and confusing time. At Animal Emergency & Referral Center of Minnesota (AERC), our board-certified veterinary neurologists combine advanced expertise — from epilepsy management to IVDD surgery —, compassionate care, and state-of-the-art technology to guide pets and their families through diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. The focus is always on comfort, clarity, and the best possible outcome for each patient.
Common Reasons Pets Visit Our Neurology Service
Pets often come to our Neurology Service for conditions such as:
- Seizures, epilepsy, or unexplained episodes of collapse
- Pain or difficulty moving
- Balance or coordination problems
- Vestibular disease
- Spinal injuries or intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)
- Tumors or neurological disorders
Seizure & Epilepsy Care
Seizures are the most common reason dogs and cats are referred to a veterinary neurologist. Our team evaluates new-onset seizures, manages canine and feline epilepsy long-term, and treats cluster seizures and status epilepticus with 24/7 emergency support in the same building. Whether your dog needs a seizure specialist for a first episode or ongoing epilepsy medication management, we work with your family veterinarian at every step.
What to Expect During Your Visit
From the moment you arrive, our team ensures both pets and their families feel supported. Here’s what the experience looks like:
- Initial Consultation: Our neurologist will review your pet’s history, current medications, and symptoms to understand the situation entirely.
- Neurological Examination: A careful, hands-on evaluation helps localize the problem within the nervous system.
- Diagnostic Testing: Depending on the exam, advanced testing may be recommended:
- MRI or CT Scan: These imaging tools provide detailed views of the brain and spinal cord, helping identify structural causes of neurological problems. We use general anesthesia because we have yet to meet a furry friend that can remain perfectly still during an MRI. Additionally, we may perform blood work and radiographs beforehand to ensure your pet’s safety.
- Spinal Tap: To evaluate cerebrospinal fluid, performed only when safe and necessary based on MRI findings.
- Bloodwork: Helps rule out systemic issues and assess overall health.
Treatment Options
Once we confirm a diagnosis, our highly skilled team develops a tailored plan. Treatments typically fall into two categories:
- Medical Management: Medications and therapies to control symptoms and improve quality of life.
- Surgical Intervention: Procedures to address structural issues affecting the nervous system when necessary.
Our neurology team sees patients at the Oakdale hospital, serving families across the Twin Cities East Metro — St. Paul, Woodbury, Maplewood, Roseville, White Bear Lake, and Lake Elmo — with referrals accepted from primary veterinarians throughout Minnesota and western Wisconsin.
How to Make An Appointment
We welcome inquiries from pet families as well as referrals from family veterinarians. Our team coordinates closely with your primary care provider to ensure seamless communication and continuity of care.
- Pet Owner Appointments
Call or email us to schedule an appointment. - Veterinarian Referrals
Submit referrals through the online form, by email, or by calling us. Patient history is appreciated.
Whether your animal companion is showing symptoms or has been referred by their primary veterinarian, we’re here to help you navigate the next steps with clarity and compassion.
