What's New?

February 4, 2012
Today, we wanted to share a recent post from a client who wrote us about her experience at our Springfield location through our Facebook page. We just love it when we hear feedback from our great clients!

"Our Maggie saw Dr. Tiches in Springfield today. We are very impressed with BVNS, Dr. Tiches, and all of the employees who obviously love and care about our four-legged family members."

Thank you to Roberta for posting on our page and for visiting our location in Springfield.

January 31, 2012
Today, we want to share a testimonial from the owner of Gizmo. Gizmo was a recent client of our team in Richmond and we couldn't be happier to receive such uplifting and kind words.

January 27, 2012
Jax, a 3-year-old French Bulldog,  had a history of fever, disorientation and falling to his left. He was not responding to antibiotic therapy and was referred to BVNS by Hometown Veterinary Hospital and VCA Alexandria Animal Hospital ER.

Dr. Tiches performed a neurological exam which showed dilated and unresponsive pupils, a left head tilt, neck pain and absent conscious proprioception (awareness of the bodies position in space) on the left side. Jax had evidence of multifocal neurologic dysfunction that implied a possible problem with the left brainstem, midbrain, and cervical spinal cord (neck pain). Considering his age, breed and presenting history, the possible causes included an inflammatory/infectious condition of the brain/spinal cord, or neoplasia. 

An MRI and spinal fluid analysis showed severe meningoencephalomyelitis with either an infectious or autoimmune cause. When the spinal fluid testing was found to be negative for infection, GME became the primary focus for treatment. GME is an immune mediated disease in which the patient’s immune system begins to attack normal tissue, you can learn more by clicking here. Jax’s case, both the brain and spinal cord were thought to be affected.

Due to the severity of his signs, Jax was hospitalized for intravenous immunosuppressive therapy with cytarabine and steroids. He improved substantially and was discharged with oral medication to continue his therapy. He subsequently completed five treatments of subcutaneous cytarabine given every 3 weeks and will be finishing his oral medication next week. We will post anupdate on his condition and his case soon! 

January 26, 2012
Thank you to all who attended and helped organize our CE presentation at Dogwood Veterinary Emergency & Specialty Center last night. Our presentation, "Practicing Practical Neurology" which was delivered by Drs. Young and Bush, received tremendous feedback and was very well attended. We were excited to present and to get a chance to meet so many of the veterinarians in the area. We hope to see and hear more from everyone who attended!

If you would like to receive updates regarding future CE events and updates from our team, please fill out our contact form so you can receive automatic updates on future events!

January 20, 2012
This is Brodie.  He is a 4-year-old miniature dachshund who was referred to BVNS Springfield by Dr. Falter of Pet Dominion Animal Hospital for back pain and ataxia. 

January 17, 2012

January 13, 2012
We would like you to meet Tucker.  He is a 4-year-old chocolate Cocker Spaniel.  Recently, he leapt off of his mom's bed cried out in pain.  Thankfully, his mother had seen degenerative disk disease before and knew what to look for.  She brought Tucker into BVNS Richmond to be seen by Dr. Martin Young.
 
An MRI showed that he did indeed have multi-level invertebral disk disease. This would require decompressive surgery on the right hemilaminectomy at L6-7. Dr. Young performed the surgery that same day and Tucker was back to his mom in no time!

We received an update this week on Tucker. He was doing well at his last recheck, with better strength and tone in the limbs. We are so glad to have helped Tucker.

January 11, 2012

Betsy was a 3-year-old Pug, referred by Gaithersburg Animal Hospital for cluster seizure and behavior changes. A MRI and CSF analysis strongly supported a diagnosis of necrotizing encephalitis, which is sometimes called Pug Dog Encephalitis despite being seen in other small breed dogs. Our experience with this disease is that over the short term the seizures and behavior changes can be improved or occasionally resolved, but almost uniformly, survival is limited to about 6 months. Euthanasia is then sought for intractable seizures, behavior changes, or/and the perception the patient is suffering. This disease strikes young to middle age dogs and mostly Pugs. The onset is typically sudden, severe and heart breaking for all involved. The disease is common and we see about 6 cases per year at BVNS.

Although this disease brought an end to Betsy’s life, she continues to be a vital part of our work at BVNS. BVNS is working in conjunction with both the University of North Carolina and also the University of Georgia to find a cure for this heart wrenching condition. Specifically, Betsy will be included in the larger effort for Dr. Renee Barber (University of Georgia) and Dr. Scott Schatzberg (Veterinary Emergency and Specialty Center, Albuquerue, NM) to define the genetic defect responsible for this highly heritable disease. Ultimately, DNA tests should allow for a dramatic reduction in the incidence of NME by changing breeding programs. Their work is being funded by the Morris Animal Foundation and Pug Dog Club of America. To read more about the study and the Morris-Animal Foundation, click on the link below.

http://www.morrisanimalfoundation.org/our-research/results.html?animalspecies=dogs&study_area=brainneurological&active=active&completed=completed&vssstudy=

January 5, 2012

“Everything in moderation, except moderation” - Mark Twain

Sammy loves bones. When the bones come out, he hides his and then takes his brother’s bone too. He loves bones. However, the last time he wrestled a bone from his brother, he significantly injured his neck and lost the ability to walk from weakness in all 4 limbs.

Dr. Linda Ruiz at Allied Partners Veterinary Emergency Service (APVES) in Huntington knew she could call BVNS. Dr. Neary took the call and saw Sammy on New Year’s day. After his examination, a disk extrusion was expected and a MRI was ordered. Surgery with Dr. Neary and Dr. Bush ensued and now Sammy is on the mend. Whether he will moderate his love for bones and bone seeking behavior as his New Year’s resolution remains to be seen.

December 30, 2011
Congratulations to long-time BVNS staff member, Christine Weaver, LVT, who was just accepted to sit for the credentialing exam in Neurology at ACVIM 2012! Great job, Christine! We are very excited for you!

December 27, 2011

We would like you to meet Audie. He is a four-year-old German Shepherd and a member of K-9 unit for the Prince William County Police. Trained in tracking, criminal apprehension, article and evidence searches, handler protection and building searches, Audie is a vital part of the Police Department.

He was referred toBVNS-Springfield in November by Dr. Scher of Prince William Animal Hospital for lumbosacral pain and mild urinary incontinence. An MRI showed an extruded disc at L7-S1 and a dorsal laminectomy was performed. He recovered very well and went home the next day. At his two week recheck, Audie was doing great and he will likely be able to go back to work in about 3 months!

We are so very happy to have been able to help a service dog like Audie and get him back out there to provide safety to all of us.

December 24, 2011

"I just wanted to wish you Happy Holidays and thank you again for what you did for my Foxy. I picked her up after surgery two years ago Christmas Eve, and she has been perfect since that time. Thank you for all the extra time you put in to be veterinary neurologists. It makes a such a huge difference for so many families!"

- Linda

A perfectly timed reminder that what we do really matters to our patients and clients. Thanks to all of our staff who are working over the holidays to help owners like Linda and patients like Foxy.

Your effort, dedication and compassion are the best gifts many of our clients will recieve this holiday season!

December 22, 2011

Happy Holidays From BVNS!

We hope that you have a joyous and safe holiday season. So that our team can spend time with their families, please note the following changes to our normal work hours:

Leesburg – Open Normal Hours, Friday & Monday; 8am to 12pm Saturday.
Richmond – Open Normal Hours, Friday & Monday.
Springfield – Closed Friday – Monday.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.

December 21, 2011
Recently, Greta, an 11 year old dachshund, was referred to Bush Veterinary Neurology Service by Dr. Hollis, the Medical Director of Dupont Veterinary Clinic.

Greta has chronic kidney disease which is very well managed by Dr. Hollis. Luckily for Greta, Dr. Hollis is also her mother!

On Thanksgiving, Greta was injured and was suffering from significant neck pain and lameness. These symptoms were not responding to anti-inflammatories, but Dr. Hollis was able to give her some relief by administering Tramadol and Robaxin. Unfortunately three weeks after her injury, her pain had increased and she was yelping out when she moved. This past Sunday, Dr. Hollis called BVNS and Dr. Bush and Dr. Cuff were able to see Greta right away.

An MRI showed a moderate compression of the right cervical nerve root in the low neck and some spinal cord compression. This would require surgery. During surgery, we were able to remove a very large amount of disk material and relieve Greta of the pain she had been experiencing. We are so very happy to report that we expect Greta to be perfectly comfortable moving forward.

December 15, 2011
"Thank you so much for the care you gave Max. He is a little crazy guy and I was just not ready to let him go, and I appreciate your efforts which have given us more time. I also wanted to let you know how impressed I am with everyone I came in contact with at Bush and Dogwood. You have assembled a considerate and dedicated team which I am sure will make Bush and Dogwood a tremendous success.

Once again, thank you for all you did for Max. I hope you and your family have a wonderful holiday season."

We just had to share this great quote from the owner of a recent surgical patient of our service in Richmond. We love to hear these stories and read the kind words of our clients.

If you are a client and would like to share your story and your experience working with our team, please feel free to post on our Facebook page or send us an email. We'd love to hear from you!

December 12, 2011
BVNS understands how important it is that we give back, not just to our patients and clients but to the whole community. That is why this year we are expanding the reach of the annual food and toy drive that we began last year. Each BVNS location will be collecting donations from today until December 24th. These donations will be distributed to the benefit of local nonprofits in Leesburg, Richmond and Springfield. Please click here to learn more!

Thank you for helping us help those who truly need our support. If you have any questions please contact us and we'll be happy to help. 

December 9, 2011
Do you remember Rascal? We've posted a lot about his story over the years as he is famous for being the face of the BVNS Rascal Foundation. This is a non-profit that was set up by his owner, Pam, to establish and fund further research into neurological disease.

About 5 years ago Rascal was very sick with inflammation of the brain – he had trouble walking, poor balance and was very dull. Encephalitis was diagnosed and he eventually made a complete recovery which was the start of the Rascal Foundation.

About one year ago he developed back pain and atrophy of the right pelvic limb. The pain and weakness were progressive to the point he could not walk on slick surfaces and would yelp-out spontaneously in pain. An MRI showed a disk extrusion at L6-L7 and this lead to surgery. In the second week after surgery he looked really well but then suddenly regressed. Another MRI showed scar formation at the past surgical site. A revision of the old surgery was required and for a while Rascal was slow to recovery. Very happily, about 12 weeks following surgery we received this note from Pam.

"Judy and Bill, as well as myself, have noticed the rather sudden change. He is happy again, running, playing, intimidating squirrels, and very much engaging again. He now begs to play ball every morning, as he used to do.

I took him to the park two days ago to play ball. That was the first "good run" he has had since his surgery. I was trying to play gently, but he wanted no part of sissy play! I watched him closely, and he did not seem sore, not even the following day. His leg is also filling out nicely. The atrophy has improved so much that it is not noticeable as before and looks almost like the other leg, with only a tad of visible atrophy (to the trained eye!).

So, my friend...you are truly a miracle worker! Thank you for saving Rascal, not once, but three times! Giving him extended life has certainly given me life too!

Thank you, my dear friend. You are just the best!"

December 6, 2011
Today, we'd like to introduce you to MameJane, who was referred to BVNS in Richmond because she was listless and lethargic at home. She was also in pain and as result wouldn't go outside or to her food bowl. After her consultation with Dr. Young, she was diagnosed with multi-level intervertebral disk disease and Dr. Young performed a dorsal laminectomy at L7-S1.

While she is still the recovery stage she is doing very well. She will now go outside, to her bowls to eat and drink, and will play with her “Babies” again. She is about as motivated as any Clumber Spaniel, which is not that much, but that is just the right place for her! We hope her recovery continues to go well and will post an update in a few weeks!

November 30, 2011
Tonight, Dr. Bill Bush will be presenting to the Loudoun County Veterinary Medical Association with Dr. Jason Bollenbeck of Towne Animal Clinic, on the topic of "The Real Practice of Veterinary Medicine." This presentation on the interaction between specialists, primary care veterinarians and owners, will center around the case of Bella (pictured here) and the important lessons that can be learned from her case. 

Bella is a 4-year-old cocker spaniel who presented to Dr. Bollenbeck in 2010 with back pain and paraparesis. She responded to treatment with doxycycline and improved. However, she was brought in again in November of this year with paraparesis and within hours lost the ability to walk, at that time she was brought to the ER at The Life Centre. She was referred to BVNS and our xamination demonstrated a left-sided spinal cord lesion at the thoracolumbar junction with a Type I disk extrusion thought to be more likely than infection, inflammation or other causes.

Bella's owners considered myelography outside of BVNS but ultimately decided on MRI due to it's decreased risk, increased effectiveness and ability to help us differentiate between patients who will improve with surgery and those that may not (to read more about MRI in comparison to CT and myelography, please review our new "Spinal Cord Imaging: Why use MRI?" information sheet). It was a very fortunate decision as the MRI showed a small disk extrusion at T11-T12 but the inside of the spinal cord also showed multifocal areas of increased signal on T2 weighted sagittal and axial imaging. Spinal fluid analysis confirmed meningomyelitis from either infection or Granulomatous Meningoencephalomyelits (GME). Bella has improved greatly with treatment and is now back to normal!

“We are so happy that we went with the MRI and discovered that surgery was not necessary after all.  It saved her (and us) from a lot of unnecessary pain and anguish.  She is doing much better today and we are so excited to have her home again.  We would like to thank you and Dr. Hague again for helping us make these difficult decisions that ultimately could have saved her life.  You have helped restore our family!”

- Bella's Family

November 22, 2011
As we approach the Thanksgiving holiday, we want to wish each of you a safe and fun holiday, filled with plenty of family, food and festive decorations!

Please note that our offices will be closed on Thursday so that our staff can celebrate the holiday as well. Please also note that our Springfield office will be closed Wednesday - Friday but will resume appointments and normal operating hours on Monday, the 28th!

If you have any questions please contact us and we'll be happy to help!

November 18, 2011
This is Sophie who had a transfrontal craniotomy (brain surgery) with Dr. Jarboe and Dr. Bush in mid March following a six month history of progressive episodes of weakness, stumbling, pacing, confusions, circling, stupor and not eating well. Additionally there were seizure-like episodes where she was laying in bed, back legs were stiff, eyes bulged, she was unable to move and only semi-responsive.

A brain problem was highly suspected and an MRI showed a large mass in the front of the brain. Surgery showed this mass to be a meningioma, a slow growing, locally invasive tumor (you can see images of her MRI here and here).

We are hopeful that she will continue to do well far into the future and excited about the progress she has made so far:

"Sophie is doing great! Thanks again for all you’ve done for Sophie and for us! It has been wonderful to have her alive, joyful, and running around with energy! We are very glad to have this extra time with her. You went way beyond the call of duty in the way you cared for her and for us, spending extraordinary amounts of time holding us through those difficult weeks and decisions. Thanks so much!"

- Sophie's Parents

November 16, 2011

Dash is a gorgeous 2-year-old  tabby cat that was sent to BVNS  by Dr. Dina Jones at Triadelphia Veterinary Clinic after he experienced neck trauma from getting closed under a garage door. 

When Dash initially presented to Dr. Jones he was in shock, had a lot of swelling around his neck and was showing neurologic symptoms. Dr. Jones quickly treated him for shock and pain and Dash started to show little improvements.

After a couple of days, there was a concern that Dash wasn’t recovering fast enough and he was sent over to BVNS with the possibility of further tests or to make the difficult decision to have him put to sleep. Dr. Brewer examined Dash and although he was still showing significant neurologic symptoms he felt that with time and a little TLC, Dash would eventually recover. After some time at home Dash DID make quite the recovery and he is back to chasing squirrels! The owners are very pleased to have their fluffy companion back to his normal self. 

November 10, 2011
Today, we'd like to share the story of Chyna, through the heartfelt words of one of her parents because we couldn't have told the story nearly as well:

"Our family would like to thank the staff at Bush Veterinary Neurology Service for giving us the chance to spend hopefully several more years with our dog Chyna, a 10-year-old Chihuahua mix who joined our family in 2004.

Thanks to spinal surgery done by Dr. David Brewer on Sept. 15 to repair a ruptured disk, she now can walk again. We greatly appreciate the care she received from Dr. Brewer, Dr. Devon Hague and from all the BVNS staff who lavished her with attention (and lots of good treats) during her stay. We are thrilled to have her back home again acting like her spunky self. Our other dog, a Labrador mix named Maggie, with whom there has been a longstanding “sibling rivalry,” may not be quite as overjoyed, but at least things are back to normal. Now, eight weeks after surgery, Chyna, also known to us as “Munchkin,” toddles around the house with her tail in the air, following us, gazing at us with those pleading eyes at dinnertime, and barking at Maggie when annoyed. It’s great to get back into the old routine when, not too long ago, we didn’t know if she would ever walk again, or even still be here.

To us, her recovery, made possible by modern-day neurosurgery for pets, seems nothing short of miraculous."

November 8, 2011
We just have to share this great photo of our first patient in Richmond! This is Cergue a beautiful and very large Bernese Mountain Dog posing with some of the BVNS Richmond staff. Not only was Cergue our first patient but he was also our first patient to have an MRI performed. We'll post an update on his case as soon as possible!

November 7, 2011
We are now open in Richmond and we couldn't be happier to be a part of a beautiful new building! A special thank you to Dr. Martin Young and our team in Richmond for all their hard work over the last few weeks and months. This day has been a long time coming and we are very excited to see this new office flourish and grow!

If you'd like to learn more, please contact us or stop by if you are in the West End of Richmond. 

November 3, 2011
Woohoo, we are happy to announce that we will be officially opening in Richmond next Monday, November 7th! Thank you to everyone who has helped us reach this exciting milestone. We are very excited that starting on Monday, we will be able to help thousands upon thousands of pets and owners in Richmond and the surrounding areas. We hope you are excited because we sure are!

Please visit the site for Dogwood Veterinary Emergency & Specialty Center to learn more!

November 1, 2011
Sadie is a 7 year old Boxer referred by Dr. Guth of Aquia-Garrisonville Animal Hospital who presented for circling and a head tilt in September. Her examination suggested that she had a lesion in her brain. An MRI was performed and revealed inflammation in her thalamus. CSF confirmed the inflammatory nature of the lesion and she was hospitalized for a 48 hour course of cytosar, a medication that suppresses the immune system. Sadie was also started on additional oral immune-suppressing medications and antibiotics that she continued after she was discharged from the hospital. She presented in late September for her two week recheck and we are happy to report that she was doing very well! We'll try to post an update on this case ASAP. 

October 27, 2011
Puck is a 10-year-old male Corgi who was a recent surgical patient at BVNS. Our team performed a transfrontal craniotomy to remove a brain tumor in the front portion of the brain (olfactory-frontal lobe). Dr. Bush performed the surgery with Dr. Hague assisting.

As a part of Puck's treatment plan, we sent a part of his tumor to Dr. Ohlfest's Brain Tumor Laboratory at the University of Minnesota. They are working on research in human and dog tumors and will create a vaccine that is specific to Puck's tumor which we will given to Puck as part of his treatment. This picture was taken right before we discharged him last Friday.  If you would like to follow Puck's progress you can subscribe to his twitter feed!

October 26, 2011
Due to construction delays the opening of our new office in Richmond has been delayed. We apologize for the inconvenience and any confusion this delay might cause and are doing all we can to open as soon as possible. To learn more, please visit the site for Dogwood Veterinary Emergency & Specialty Center, our soon-to-be home away from home in Richmond!

We will post an update and a new open date ASAP. Thank you for your patience, understanding and support. We look forward to being open and getting a chance to serve Richmond-area pets and their owners very soon.

October 18, 2011
Chloe is an 8 year-old pug that first presented for an atlantoaxial subluxation (you can learn more here) that was surgically repaired. She made a complete recovery from that procedure but about a month ago she started to have her right pelvic limbs flipped over such that the top of the paw was on the ground.

This persisted along with some weakness and she was again evaluated at BVNS. Dr. Hague and Dr. Bush suspected a lumbar disk extrusion, this was confirmed with MRI and she recently had spinal surgery. The owner reports that she is doing great and we are hopeful she will not need any more spinal surgery in her lifetime.

October 13, 2011
Congratulations to Dr. Jarboe and Dr. Bush who are coauthors of a scientific article published in the September/October issue of ACVIM. This article regards findings of degenerative myelopathy in a Bernese Mountain Dog who was seen at BVNS. The patient had DNA sequencing and histopathology performed at the University of Missouri, the findings of which are important because they show that the existing test for degenerative myelopathy can miss or be falsely negative for detection of degenerative myelopathy. The important information from this patient has allowed a greater understanding of degenerative myelopathy and will improve the testing for this disease moving forward.

The lead author is Fred Wininger and the senior author is Joan Coates. Each are especially gifted neurologists and scientists on the faculty at the University of Missouri. Dr. Coates has been internationally recognized many times as a true leader in veterinary medicine and we highly value our connection to these two veterinarians.

October 10, 2011
This week we would like to celebrate the team of veterinary technicians who represent BVNS at each of our locations. These dedicated and hard working staff members put in a lot of hours including early mornings and late nights just to help our patients and clients. They don't always get the spotlight but they always deserve it. Please join us in thanking each and every veterinary technician this week as we celebrate National Veterinary Technician Week. Without their hard work, countless patients and clients wouldn't get the loving and compassionate care they need and deserve. Thank you for all of your heroic efforts!

October 5, 2011
This weekend is going to be very busy for the team at BVNS! Both Drs. Cuff and Bush will be traveling to the UGA Vet School in Athens, GA to attend THE SEVEN, a neurology conference hosted by Simon Platt. While there, Dr. Cuff will presenting his work on the use of an electroencephalogram while treating a cat with non-convulsive status epilepticus. Also, Drs. Young and Jarboe will be traveling to Richmond to attend and participate in the Fetch A Cure Continuing Education event. While there, Drs. Young and Jarboe will give a lecture on distinguishing neurological disease from orthopedic disease in geriatric patients, titled "The Neurology Exam with a Focus on "Old Dogs": Nuances and Challenges."

At BVNS, we are always happy to share our knowledge and to learn from others and that makes weekends like this one particularly special for our team. Thank you in advance to all that are attending and to the rest of the BVNS team for their extra work and support while we are away.

October 4, 2011
Shadow is a 10-year-old Labrador referred by Dr. Kalinski of Suburban Animal Hospital. He originally presented on September 12th to Dr. Young for an inability to walk. An MRI revealed that he had a large amount of intervertebral disk material that had extruded from its normal position between the 5th and 6th cervical vertebrae into his spinal canal, resulting in compression of his spinal cord. Ventral slot surgery was performed the next morning and Shadow was hospitalized for supportive care afterwards. He was discharged several days later and then came in late last week for his suture removal. Shadow is now able to get up on his own and walk around and as you can see in this photo, he is very comfortable and doing very well!

October 3, 2011
We are very excited to be opening in Richmond in just a few short weeks so we wanted to let everyone know, that our Richmond office will officially open on November 1st! More information about our opening, the new hospital we are going to be a part of ,and the great team that we will be working with, can be found here. If you are in the area, we'd love to have you stop by once we are open. We will be posting contact information soon and in the meantime please feel free to contact our Leesburg office if you have any questions. 

September 27, 2011
We would like to congratulate Dr. Bush, Dr. Tiches, Dr. Jarboe, Dr. Brewer, Dr. Young, Dr. Hague and Dr. Cuff because they have all been recognized as part of Virginia's Top Veterinarians for 2011. Our patients and clients know we have an amazing team but it is also nice to see recognition of this outside of the BVNS family.

September 20, 2011

Enzo is a 3 year old German Shorthair Pointer who was referred by Dr. Hudson at Colonial Animal Hospital. He presented to Dr. Tiches on July 25th as he had recently started to have seizures. Historically, he had always been a very active dog who enjoyed traveling throughout the mid-atlantic region. On examination he displayed signs that his balance system was affected. MRI and CSF analysis revealed that he had encephalitis and a sedated ear exam revealed a moderate external ear infection. He was started on anticonvulsants and a course of antibiotics and has been seizure free with improvements in his neurologic exam as of his two week recheck. We are very hopeful that Enzo can now return to his traveling and fun!

September 15, 2011

Would you like an opportunity to expand your veterinary career with a goal-oriented and fast-paced company?

BVNS is hiring a Team Leader for our Springfield, VA location. Team leaders must provide effective leadership and stress management, assist and support the Daily Operations Manager, and handle customer and community relations. Team leaders must be a Licensed Veterinary Technician in the state of Virginia and have two years of related veterinary experience.

The individual that fits the bill must:

• Possess excellent leadership skills
• Be energetic
• Enjoy a fast-paced environment
• Be good at multitasking
• And work well in a team environment

Your responsibilities will include:

• Providing support of our staff neurologists and the daily flow of the practice
• Ensuring quality and performance of all procedures performed by BVNS
• Assisting in improving the technical core of the team
• Site inventory management
• And scheduling

For more information and a complete job description, please email Diana Stuebing. Please also visit our site to learn more about BVNS.

September 13, 2011
Zinger is a 6-year-old female spayed Belgian Tervuren who was brought to BVNS to see Dr. Jarboe in April, 2010. She presented with poorly controlled seizures, behavior changes, loose stools, and weight loss while on traditional anticonvulsants that are known to be associated with extreme sedation, gastric upset, and behavior changes.

Given her age and breed, a presumptive diagnosis of primary epilepsy was made. Zinger is a very intelligent and beautiful Terv whose primary joy in life is being active and pleasing her owner during her agility work. Her lack of confidence, lack of enthusiasm, and dietery issues were very concerning to all. By tweaking her anticonvulsant medications over the following few months, we were able to entirely wean her off the more traditional anticonvulsants (phenobarbital and potassium bromide) and onto a newer anticonvulsant (levetiracetam) with tremendously less side effects and good seizure control. Zinger responded well to the medication changes and her love of life and love of competition quickly returned. We are so thrilled to congratulate Zinger and her proud parents on Zinger's recent accomplishment on obtaining her Master's Agility Championship! Way to go Zinger and way to show us all how to excel despite having epilepsy!

If you would like to see some very impressive video of Zinger competing, please click here and here. 

September 9, 2011
Please join us in congratulating Amy Printz who celebrated three years with BVNS yesterday and Dawna Snipes who celebrates two years with BVNS today. We know how hard you both work and how dedicated you are to our patients and clients and we can't express our appreciation fervently enough!

Also, a belated Happy Birthday to Dr. Deena Tiches, who celebrated her birthday yesterday. Happy Birthday, Dr. Tiches. We hope you had a fantastic birthday week and that you have a fun-filled weekend planned!

September 8, 2011
It is with great sadness that we announce the recent passing of our patient, Chispo. For the last six months, Chispo has been a patient at our Springfield location while he was treated for necrotizing meningoencephalitis. He fought long and hard while remaining quite the character and sweeheart during each visit. Our thoughts, prayers and hope go out to Chispo and his family during this time of great sadness. He will be missed but we were happy to have been a part of his life for a short while. Thank you to Dr. Stephanie Galvan of VCA Alexandria Animal Hospital for entrusting Chispo's care to our team. 

September 7, 2011
Poppy, a 12-week-old Boston Terrier, was referred to BVNS by Dr. Jerry Hinn from Hayfield Animal Hospital for a hearing test. Due to Poppy's coat color, there was a concern he might not be able to hear because coat color is colinked with a genetic mutation where the hair cells of cochlea do not develop.

Fortunately, Poppy passed his tests with flying colors and is able to hear very well. The only complication was due to an entirely different problem. As you can see in this photo, Poppy is so cute that our team of Drs. Young and Cuff, along with Diana Stuebing, had to almost pry him out of the arms of fellow staff member Stef. As you can see, Poppy and Stef formed quite the bond!

September 3, 2011
Happy Labor Day Everyone! We wanted to let everyone know that we are open during normal business hours today and that we are also open for Emergencies on Sunday and Monday. Please enjoy your holiday, be safe and make sure your four-legged friends get plenty of water and shade if they are out enjoying the nice weather this weekend!

September 2, 2011
Boudreaux, a 4 year old Papillon, was referred to the BVNS Springfield location by Dr. Birch at Banfield of Alexandria. In mid-July, Boudreaux was evaluated by Dr. Tiches following a 10-month history of neck pain. An MRI was performed and showed an atlantoaxial subluxation (AA Luxation) with evidence of spinal cord compression.

A surgical consultation with Drs. Jarboe and Brewer was sought, and in early August surgical stabilization of the AA luxation was performed by Drs. Jarboe and Brewer. You can see the results in this impressive radiograph! Boudreaux has done very well in the days following surgery (walking without obvious weakness and moving his head well) and we expect him to make a great recovery! And while this photo shows Boudreaux looking very unhappy, he is actually a very sweet dog but we just couldn't resist using this photo! 

August 31, 2011
Heidi, a petite gorgeous long haired Chihuahua, presented to our Leesburg office in December, 2010 for evaluation of back and stifle issues. Heidi's exam findings were a little difficult to assess as she had been given Prednisone, a corticosteroid which reduces general inflammation but can mask discomfort. She also had deficits which may have been residual deficits from a previous spinal surgery for a disc extrusion elsewhere 19 months earlier and knee surgery 3 years earlier. She had also improved by the time she arrived for our initial examination.

Regardless, we strongly suspected most of her problems to be due to a back issue but opted to give her a little more time with exercise restrictions and medication changes. She became weaker over the next few days and had focal mid back pain, pointing more directly towards a neurologic problem. Dr. Bush performed a spinal MRI, which identified a large cystic structure ('fluid pocket") at the site of the previous spinal surgery at L1-L2 and a large disc rupture in front of the cystic site at T13-L1 and a large disc rupture behind the cystic site at L2-L3, all causing varying degrees of cord compression.

Heidi's surgery was extremely intricate and complex primarily because of her small size (2 kgs or 4.4 lbs), chronic scar tissue encountered with any second surgery, and the need to incorporate two new areas with an old surgery site. Dr. Jarboe was up to the task and Heidi has done very well since that time, never looking back...well, perhaps to gaze upon her lovliness in a mirror!

August 26, 2011
It isn't often brain surgery is performed on a cat, it is even less often that brain surgery is performed on a cat twice - three and a half years apart!

In April of 2008, Momma Girl was 15 years-old, blind and confused. She was found to have  large mengingioma which was removed and she rapidly returned to normal. Three and a half years later, she was again blind and confused and this time was diagnosed with two brain tumors: at the bottom of her brain was a pituitary tumor and at the top was a very large tumor, which was thought to be another meningioma. Click here to view MRI images of these tumors. The top arrows indicate the suspected meningioma and the bottom arrows indicate the pituitary mass.

 Even though she is now 18 and ½, Dr. Bush believed surgery to remove the large tumor could give her and her owner another year together. The owner agreed and earlier this week Dr. Bush and Dr. Jarboe performed brain surgery on Momma Girl. The tumor on top of the brain was completely removed and she is recovering well. We anticipate that she will go home to her parents today and expect her to make a full recovery.

Please wish her and her parents a successful recovery!

August 25, 2011
To follow up on our earlier case report about Endre, we wanted to share these kind and heartwarming words from Endre's owner. We hope that sharing these sentiments will provide hope, comfort and solace to you and others who need it most. If your pet is sick or suffering and we can help, we will.

August 24, 2011
Happy Anniversary to our Medical Director, Dr. Joli Jarboe. Two years ago today, Dr. Jarboe joined our team and took over the reigns as our Medical Director. In such a short period of time, it is amazing the impact she has had in the lives of our clients and patients as well as in shaping who BVNS is as a service. Dr. Jarboe - thank you for all your hard work, the sleepless nights and the compassion and passion you share with every client & patient. 

August 23, 2011

In June, Endre was referred to BVNS by Dr. Alli Schnurrer at Veterinary Referral and Critical Care and his primary care veterinarian, Dr. Daniel Longest at Three Chopt Animal Clinic.

Two days before coming to BVNS, Endre was normal in the morning, was weak in the afternoon and by the evening was unable to get up in all four legs. The owner brought him to VRCC in Richmond for evaluation. He was hospitalized for two days and started on antibiotic medications. Two days later, Endre was not showing much improvement and was brought to hospital in Leesburg. He was evaluated by Dr. Brewer and Dr. Hague. On examination, Endre was non-ambulatory, but had good reflexes in all four limbs. An MRI of the cervical spine was performed and showed an abnormal area between the 4th and 5th disc space. A cerebrospinal fluid analysis showed an increase in one population of white blood cells, called eosinophils. This type of white blood cell can be elevated in patients with certain types of infections or in some cancers. Infectious disease testing was performed in Endre’s spinal fluid and additional antibiotic medications were started. Endre was hospitalized with BVNS and showed gradual improvement on a daily basis. He was discharged from the hospital two days later and was able to walk with support under his limbs. Unfortunately, all of the infectious disease tests came back negative from the laboratory and we do not know the ultimate cause of his initial disease, but Endre continues to get better with antibiotic treatment.

This picture of Endre with BVNS Assistant Bethany, was taken when he was reevaluated in July. At that time, Endre was walking without support of a sling. Endre is a show dog and is also back in obedience classes!

August 22, 2011
Happy Birthday to Dr. Joli Jarboe! Thank you for all the love and care you provide each patient (and client) you see. 

August 19, 2011
Happy Birthday to client services representative extraordinaire, Sarah Holland. Thanks for all your hard work, all of us appreciate it and hope you have a great birthday!

August 16, 2011
Annabelle is an 11-year-old Bouvier that was referred to us by Dr. Kate Anders of Belle Haven Animal Medical Centre on June 11th. Annabelle was referred to us due to an inability to walk and severe tetraparesis. An MRI showed severe compressive disc extrusion at C5-6 and a ventral slot surgery was performed by Drs. Jarboe and Neary while Annabelle was under the same anesthetic period. She is pictured here during her six week recheck and is doing incredibly well. She is currently being seen for in home physical therapy by Dr. Danoff and is walking well and without support. 

August 12, 2011
Our team at Bush Veterinary Neurology Service is privileged to be able to help so many wonderful patients and work with such caring owners. In many cases, a patient is referred to us because a diagnosis has remained elusive and the source of the trouble is still unknown. At that stage, our ability to offer complete neurology care is critical to an accurate diagnosis and successful treatment.

August 10, 2011
Congratulations to Dr. David Brewer who is celebrating his first anniversary with Bush Veterinary Neurology Service today. Dr. Brewer has been a wonderful addition to our team and an invaluable neurologist and neurosurgeon for our clients and patients.

Thanks for your hard work and dedication, Dr. Brewer! 

August 9, 2011
Ziggy is an 11 year-old Chihuahua seen by Dr. Christine Cottey at Clocktower Animal Hospital and Dr. Kim Danoff at Paws to Heal for an inability to walk and screaming out in pain. He was diagnosed with multiple conditions but an immune disease of the spinal cord and its lining called granulomatous meningoencephalomyelitis (GME) was thought most important.

Prior to the advent of immune modulatory drugs, GME cases had a poor prognosis. In order to modulate his immune system and treat his GME, Ziggy is being treated with cyclosporine, a very safe drug with few to no side-effects. After only eight weeks, Ziggy is now very playful, eager to walk and run, bossing his housemate (a yorkie) around and is thought to be 100% comfortable. He is pictured here with a leash suited for a very large dog, which fits Ziggy's personality and self-image perfectly!

August 5, 2011
This is Guinness who we recently saw during her most recent recheck for GME (granulomatous meningoencephalitis). Guinness was originally diagnosed with GME several years ago. She was seen first by our Medical Director, Dr. Jarboe, in August of 2010. As you can see from this picture, Guinness is doing great and is back in remission!

August 3, 2011
Delilah Belle, a two-year-old female spayed Dachshund was referred to us by Dr. Whall at Fairland Animal Hospital in Silver Spring, MD. Delilah presented to us in late June for back pain and pelvic limb weakness. She was seen in our Leesburg office by Drs. Young and Jarboe. MRI revealed a T13-L1 disk herniation and as a result, surgery (hemilaminectomy) was performed. Attached is picture from July 15th during a suture removal. We are happy to report that Delilah is doing great, is very strong, and is pain-free.

July 28, 2011
Jack is a three year-old beagle referred by Dr. Amy Dillon at Caring Hands Animal Hospital in Centreville to Dr. Bush and Dr. Cuff for having had four seizures in the last 10 weeks.

Jack’s story began last December when Friends of Homeless Animals (FOHA) took Jack in after he had been on the street but uncatchable for 18 months. Jack was too scared to come close enough to people to be taken in but slowed from being sick with heartworm. FOHA in conjunction with Caring Hands Animal Hospital resolved his serious heartworm condition and placed him with a very loving foster family. Jack is now affectionate and well adjusted, however he has recently started to have seizures. Our neurologic examination showed some changes in his retina that suggests a past infection, which may be actively infecting the brain or causing a scar within the brain that is causing his seizures. Jack will be treated with antibiotics and seizure medication and we are hopeful to get his seizure condition under control.

We'll post an update as soon as we can! 

July 27, 2011
We ARE hiring! Bush Veterinary Neurology Service is hiring for our new office in Richmond, opening this October. Positions include: one LVT, one full-time Assistant, one full-time Client Care Representative and one part-time Client Care Representative. Experience in veterinary specialty medicine is preferred but not required. Please email your resume to us ASAP. We look forward to hearing from you!

July 25, 2011
Congratulations to Dr. Martin Young who celebrated his third anniversary with Bush Veterinary Neurology Service late last week. Thanks for all your hard work, Dr. Young. We are very excited about the possibilities that the next few months present to you and to the whole Bush Veterinary Neurology team. Thanks for playing such a big role in our current and future success!

July 23, 2011
Earlier this week, Maggie was referred to our team by Dr. Michael Watts at Clevengers Corner Veterinary Clinic and Dr. Charla McKoy from Animal Emergency and Critical Care for an emergency neurologic evaluation after she had 7 seizures in 10 hours!

Prior to that, Maggie had never had any seizures. She came to our Leesburg office and was evaluated by Dr. Brewer and Dr. Hague. An MRI of the brain showed a tumor in the right front part of the brain, you can view the MRI here. (This image looks at the mass from directly above). Our hope is that this is a benign type of tumor (a meningioma) where surgery will help to prolong Maggie's quality of life. To debulk the tumor, Maggie had surgery on Thursday afternoon. Since her surgery she has been doing very well in the hospital and has not had any further seizures.

Maggie is pictured here with her favorite toy and sporting the very fashionable BVNS haircut during a visit with her owner on Friday. We are thrilled to see how well Maggie is doing less than 24 hours after her surgery! We will post more updates on Maggie as she progresses.

July 22, 2011
We ARE hiring! Bush Veterinary Neurology Service is hiring for our new office in Richmond, opening this October. Positions include: one LVT, one full-time Assistant, one full-time Client Care Representative and one part-time Client Care Representative. Experience in veterinary specialty medicine is preferred but not required. Please email us your resume. We look forward to hearing from you!

July 20, 2011
Happy, Happy Birthday to Michelle Cales. Make it a great day, Michelle! 

July 15, 2011
Because we're guessing we aren't alone in dreaming of beaches, sun and fun and on this pretty Friday we thought we'd share this recent image of King playing on the beach. Click here to read more about his story. 

July 13, 2011

July 12, 2011
We have some great news to report regarding our patient, Obi! As described in our original post on June 28th, Dr. Tiches and Dr. Bush had diagnosed and then removed a very large tumor from around Obi’s cervical spinal cord. At that time, Obi needed some assistance to walk and required some pain medication to be comfortable. Since then we have confirmed that Obi’s tumor was in fact a meningioma and he has had both rehab therapy with Morgan Francis and radiation therapy with Dr. Nancy Gustafson at Regional Veterinary Referral Center.

Very happily Obi has returned to nearly normal! He appears perfectly comfortable, is very playful, care free and at about 90% of his normal strength. He has done really well and we are expecting long term control of his spinal cord tumor. Obi is pictured here after his underwater treadmill session with Morgan Francis and Dr. Bush.

July 11, 2011
Happy, Happy Birthday (cha cha cha) to Selinda Clayton! Thank you for all you do everyday to help our patients and your fellow team members. Make it a great day, Selinda. You deserve it! 

July 6, 2011
It is never easy or fun to report the loss of a patient but today we must do so. Shadow, thank you for bringing joy, love and hope to all who knew you - you are dearly missed by both your family and the team at Bush Veterinary Neurology Service. To see more photos of Shadow and to read more about this case, please visit our Facebook page.

July 5, 2011
We would like to congratulate Dr. Deena Tiches, who celebrated her fourth year with Bush Veterinary Neurology Service over the weekend! Thank you for all your hard work, expertise and leadership, Dr. Tiches. 

July 4, 2011
Happy Fourth of July! Please enjoy the holiday safely and please make sure to provide your furry friends with plenty of water and shade for all your outdoor activities so they can enjoy the holidays as well. 

June 30, 2011
Sierra is mixed-breed referred by Dr. Jenna Randall at Pender Veterinary Center to Dr. Cuff and Dr. Bush for progressively poor balance, weakness on the left side and a poor visual response on the left side. This suggested a problem in the cerebellum and maybe the forebrain. MRI showed a mass creeping along the meninges of the cerebellum and a spinal tap supported the diagnosis of lymphoma or granulomatous meningoencephalomyelitis (GME). The diseases are treated similarly and a chemotherapy protocol was started for Sierra. In two days she was dramatically better and in one week she was thought to be normal. Sierra is pictured here about 3 weeks after her diagnosis and we are hopeful that her treatment will provide successful long term control.

June 29, 2011
BVNS Customer Service Survey - Are you a current or former client of BVNS? If so, we'd love your feedback via this short, confidential and easy to use survey. Please take a moment to fill it out and let us know what we are doing well, where we can improve and to add any other comments you'd like. Thank you for your time and for being a part of the BVNS family!

June 28, 2011

Obi presented to Dr. Tiches as a result of one month of stumbling, difficulty rising and progressive weakness. He could walk but was weak and had little ability to sense limb position on the right side. MRI showed a spinal tumor that was severely compressing the second cervical spinal cord segment. Dr. Tiches was suspicious that the tumor was a meningioma. In the cervical spinal cord these tumors typically respond well to surgery, grow slowly and are considered benign. Surgery was considered risky and it is known that many cases require a team to mechanically ventilate after surgery.

The owners decided they wanted to give Obi the best shot they could so Dr. Bush performed the surgery and Dr. Galanis and the RVRC critical care staff were ready to provide whatever perioperative support was needed, including ventilation.

The surgery was difficult as the tumor was tightly adhered to the lining of the spinal cord and the spinal cord itself but after four hours of surgery, Dr. Bush removed the tumor.

Obi has benefitted from rehab therapy with Morgan Francis which has included an underwater treadmill. He has made great strides and is pictured here about 2 ½ weeks after surgery. He can walk with minimal to no support once he is assisted to stand.  He will soon start radiation therapy with Dr. Gustafson and it is expected that he will return to walking and stay in remission from this disease.

June 24, 2011
Today, we publish our next Neurotransmitter, a series that highlights interesting cases that have important educational value. In this issue, we take a look into the clinical management of a cat who was determined to be in a state of constant seizure (a condition called status epilepticus). This condition is both life threatening and very difficult to treat. Click here to read more about this case and to see a short video of the symptoms of status epilepticus! 

June 23, 2011
Congratulations to Michelle Cales who has been selected to start her three-year training program towards becoming a Licensed Veterinary Technician at Northern Virginia Community College. We have been very lucky to have Michelle working with us for the last three years, she is an exceptional candidate and sure to excel in this program. Great job and good luck, Michelle!

June 21, 2011
Maya and family returned to BVNS on 5/11/11 for an informal visit and to show off how well Maya has been doing since spinal decompression surgery performed by Dr. Jarboe in late December 2010 for a disc rupture at L2-L3. Maya is showing little to no deficits from that disc rupture and was very enthusiastic and generous with her kisses while visiting with us. The owners also brought the entire BVNS homemade cupcakes at Maya's two week post op suture removal earlier this year. Can you spot the Maya look alike? While we all enjoyed the cupcakes, we are especially thrilled to see Maya doing so well!

June 16, 2011

Great news for the BVNS team at ACVIM. Diana Stuebing, Daily Operations Manager was awarded the "Best Case Presentation" for her presentation on the intensive care of a patient with severe neurological impairment secondary to encephalitis. Congratulations, Diana! 

Also, Dr. Young has completed his boards and Dr. Hague has completed her medicine qualifer. Congratulations to both of you for this huge accomplishment. Also, a belated happy birthday to Dr. Young! 

June 14, 2011
Lily, a gorgeous little brindle dachshund presented for suture removal following a ventral slot procedure at C2-C3 to remove a massive disc rupture performed by Dr. Jarboe 2 weeks earlier. She looks absolutely fantastic! Her owner reports she can’t believe how well Lily has done since her surgery and is having a hard time keeping her exercise restricted!

June 13, 2011
Good luck to everyone from BVNS that is attending the annual meeting of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM) this week:

Diana Stuebing, LVT,  has been selected to present a case report to fellow licensed veterinary technicians at ACVIM in Denver this week. Diana’s case report was selected from about thirty applicants and she will be discussing the intensive care of a patient with severe neurological impairment secondary to encephalitis.

Dr. Martin Young has nearly completed his residency, passed his internal medicine qualifying examination and qualified to take the two-day, five-part examination to become Board Certified in Neurology by the ACVIM.  The examination is process is grueling and competitive as fewer than 50% pass this examination. Congratulations to Dr. Young for coming this far and good luck this week. 

Dr. Devon Hague has met the requirements to take her internal medicine qualifying examination in Denver next week as well. Once she passes this exam and completes the third year of her residency, Dr. Hague will be qualified to take the Board Certification examination. Congratulations and good luck to Dr. Hague. 

June 10, 2011
Bailey, a 6 year old spayed female domestic short-haired cat, was referred to BVNS Springfield in late March 2011 by Dr. Jim DeBell at Shady Grove Animal Clinic for episodic weakness in all limbs. A neuromuscular disease was suspected and radiographs revealed the presence of a large mass in the chest. A tensilon test and bloodwork confirmed that Bailey had myasthenia gravis and that the thoracic mass was most likely a thymoma. Bailey underwent surgery with Dr. Greg Griffin at RVRC for removal of the thymoma four weeks ago and is shown here at a recent recheck with Dr. Tiches.  Bailey is doing great and all neurologic signs have resolved.

 

June 7, 2011
Alphie is a very cute 8 year-old mixed breed that was referred to BVNS by Dr. Ivan Cunningham of the Animal Clinic of La Plata. Alphie presented with the odd complaint of weakness demonstrated only after sleeping or resting. On examination, Alphie was slow to rise after resting and was short-strided going up stairs. Orthopedic disease or pain seemed the most likely but this was not supported on examination. These symptoms of getting weak with rest was very odd as many disease manifest as getting worse with exercise. For example, a common disease called myasthenia gravis would appear similarily but symptoms in this case  appear with exercise - this prompted Dr. Hague to coin the term "reverse myasthenia."

Dr. Bush hypothesized that this was a muscle or nerve condition and recommended initiating diagnostics with blood tests, which would be followed by more sophisticated muscle and nerve testing (including biopsy) if the blood tests weren't helpful. Fortunately, the ANA (anti-nuclear antibody test) was positive on two occasions indicating that the process could be from immune disease. A trial with cyclosporine helped for just a few days but prednisone was curative. In fact, Alphie was much brighter and more active than in recent memory on prednisone. Currently, we are in the process of starting another immune drug called azathioprine to try to reduce the need for prednisone and prevent other immune disease manifestations in future. Interstingly, Alphie also has another immune disease, he is hypothyroid. However, thyroid supplement was not sufficient to resolve this condition or its symptoms.

June 2, 2011
Congratulations again to Scott Petesch for his acceptance into the UPENN Veterinary Program. Scott will begin this new journey in the fall and will be sorely missed by everyone at BVNS. Scott, thank you for all your hard work over the last year. Good luck!

May 31, 2011
Jill was a five-year old Irish Setter mix that presented to BVNS for diarrhea, severe weight loss and poor balance. A systemic disease affecting the brainstem and GI tract was suspected and Jill was diagnosed with Prototheca zopfii. Unfortunately, this disease is known to be fatal with conventional treatments. Drs. Bush and Young decide to try a novel treatment, intrathecal Amphotericin B. Injecting across the blood brain barrier (within the intrathecal space or fluid space surrounding brain and spinal cord) could increase the concentration of this medication and reduce systemic side-effects. Jill’s owners were great in that they were open to a novel  therapy extracted from human literature and really just wanted more time with their dog that they loved so dearly. We proceeded and were able to follow-up with serial MRI and CSF analysis. We felt that Jill may have lived longer and better than otherwise, but sadly was euthanized due to disease progression. Dr. Young will publish a case report titled “Serial MRI and CSF Analysis in a dog treated with intrathecal Amphotericin for Protothecosis" in the Journal of the American Animal Hospital later this year. It is hoped that this publication will improve the recognition of this disease and lead to a novel and useful treatment.

"I really like this picture because it reminds me that Jill's treatment allowed us to keep her through Christmas. Thanks for all of your work."

Best Wishes.

Matt and Debbie

May 27, 2011
BVNS is proud to announce that our certification to perform residency training in neurology and neurosurgery has once again been renewed. BVNS is one of only about ten private practices out of a total of thirty five instituions in the United States with this certification. We are proud of our efforts to advance veterinary science and the understanding of neurology in small animals and excited to continue these efforts. 

May 24, 2011

"a TRULY life-threatening situation"

Maya, a 5 year old Australian Shepherd, presented to BVNS having had non-stop seizures for several hours - a state known as “status epilepticus.” This is a truly life-threatening situation; what’s more the ongoing convulsions had elevated Maya’s body temperature to a dangerously high level capable of causing its own secondary complications. Drs. Cuff and Brewer administered life-saving medicine and support in order to stop the seizures and to reduce Maya’s temperature to normal in a controlled fashion.

An EEG was later conducted to assess Maya’s brain activity and ensure that the seizure activity had abated. Maya was cared for by BVNS staff for 4 days before returning home and going on to make a rapid and complete recovery. Doctors believe that toxicity was the most likely cause for Maya’s seizures.

May 19, 2011
Chardonnay was referred to BVNS by Dr. Stephan Larrick of Powhatan Animal Hospital for the sudden loss of ability to walk in all four legs after jumping off the bed. When Chardonnay presented to BVNS she was unable to stand on her own and had severe neck pain. A MRI of the cervical spine revealed a very large disc extrusion at C5-6 severely compressing the spinal cord. Chardonnay was immediately taken to surgery with Drs. Brewer and Young removing the herniated disc. Before leaving the hospital just two days later Chardonnay was up and walking on her own. This picture shows Chardonnay about 2 weeks after surgery when her sutures were removed. She has returned completely to normal and is completely pain free.

May 17, 2011

"19 and gets around like a new kitten"

Three years ago, at the age of 16, Mommagirl presented for lethargy and blindness. The BVNS team removed a very large meningioma from the right forebrain and within days she was brighter and starting to be able to see. Happily we just received this email from the owner:

"Dr. Bush,

Keeping you informed that Mommagirl is doing excellent on the third anniversary of her neurosurgery. She is now 19 and gets around like a new kitten.

Much thanks,

Peter"

May 13, 2011
Rascal is a 7 year-old Chihuahua referred by Dr. Terrio at VCA Alexandria Animal Hospital to Dr. Tiches in Springfield for neck pain and weakness in all four limbs. His gait was short strided on the thoracic limbs and long-strided on the pelvic limbs. MRI revealed a cavity of fluid in the high cervical spinal cord (syringomyelia) and also a disk extrusion at C6-C7. Dr. Tiches and Dr. Bush recommended surgery at C6-C7 and within 24 hours of the surgery, Rascal was stronger and more comfortable.

May 12, 2011
Jeb is a 13 year old beagle mix that was referred by Dr. Jennifer Boyle of Leesburg Veterinary Hospital for two days of progressive weakness and pain. Dr. Hague noted that Jeb was unable to stand or walk, painful and she surmised he could have a ruptured disk pressing on the spinal cord. Dr. Hague ordered a MRI that showed Jeb had a severe spinal cord compression from a disk extrusion at L1-L2 on the left. Jeb was rushed to surgery where Dr. Hague and Dr. Bush removed a large amount of herniated disk material. Jeb is pictured here, going home, 24 hours after surgery, walking, comfortable, eating, eliminating and happy albeit a little sedate.

May 6, 2011
King had spinal surgery to remove a spinal cord tumor about 10 months ago (read more here) but presented recently for deafness. The owner reported that he only seemed to hear her husband’s voice. Dr. Bush requested a BAER or hearing test to try to distinguish whether this was age related hearing loss (presbycusis) or potentially from a middle ear infection. Christine Weaver, LVT and Diana Stuebing, LVT performed the electrodiagnostic testing and it was determined that King could hear at the standard tone we use to test dogs. It was concluded that he is only unable to hear certain tones or frequencies. The owner wonders if this might actually be gender associated selective hearing and not age associated.

King was also evaluated for panting and being slightly sore and slow to move. There was a concern that his spinal tumor may have regrown or that the anal sac carcinoma that was completed removed may have spread to his lymph nodes, spine or chest. Very happily the MRI and radiographs show him to be cancer free! He does have a mild disk extrusion and this is thought to be the source of his soreness and panting. We expect to be able to control this problem well with medication.

As you may remember King was rescued after being dragged behind a car and continues to show himself a fighter and is beating all the odds.

May 2, 2011
Wash Out Lyme Disease! 

Don't forget, on May 22nd from noon to 3 pm, Regional Veterinary Referral Center (RVRC) is hosting a dog wash to benefit the National Capital Lyme and Tick-borne Disease Association. BVNS staff will be participating and joining in the fun. Please visit the RVRC for more information. 

"Lyme disease is the #1 infectious disease in the country with cases doubling each year. As Lyme disease cases continue to rise, it is important to be aware of the dangers and risks Lyme disease can pose to your dogs and families. Our Mid-Atlantic region of the U.S. is considered to be an endemic area, and it is estimated that three in ten ticks carry the Borrelia burgdorferi bacteria that causes the debilitating disease. In our area, Loudon County and Fairfax County alone account for over half of Virginia's reported cases—and it is estimated that only 10% of cases are actually reported."

April 20, 2011
We would like to thank everyone who attended the Seizure Management talk that Dr. Bill Bush gave last night in Charlottesville. The event was a huge success and we've already received some very positive feedback!

April 18, 2011

"seizure-free TWO years after starting therapy"

Mahina presented to Dr. Bush for progressive confusion and seizure. MRI and CSF analysis were performed and ruled-out many possible causes but Mahina failed to improve on prednisone (anti-inflammatory) and clindamycin (antibiotic). Given the failed response to broad spectrum treatment, there was a concern for cancer that may have been missed by the MRI and CSF analysis. Specifically, the Bernese Mountain Dog breed is at risk for lymphoma or a similar tumor type called maliganant histiocytosis and generally the prognosis is poor. Mahina started chemotherapy, never had a side-effect, and is pictured here, doing well, and seizure-free TWO years after starting therapy.

 

April 14, 2011
Abby, a normally exuberant 3 year old Boxer, presented to Dr. Jarboe and Dr. Hague in mid-February, 2011. She presented with rapid development of the inability to walk or stand, along with exquisite neck pain following a tumble down the stairs.

MRI demonstrated findings consistent with a compressive lesion of her cervical spinal cord, with neoplasia being a concern because Boxers seem unfairly plagued with cancer, even at 3 years of age. Surgery was discussed with the owner and decided upon as the best course of treatment. During surgery, Dr. Jarboe with Dr. Young assisting, found diffuse hemorrhage filling the space between the spinal cord and the covering of the spinal cord as the source of the cord compression. No evidence of cancer was found in tissues submitted for histopathology leading to a diagnosis of traumatic subdural hematoma following the fall down the steps. Abby is shown here with her Mom on the right and Dr. Jarboe on the left (Dr. J made a special trip into the hospital on her day off to see Abby for her suture removal, explaining the casual attire!). As you can see Abby is once again loving life and providing Aubrey and the BVNS staff with countless laughs and slurping face kisses as only a Boxer can!

 

April 11, 2011
"Rumble" a gorgeous 6 year Bichon Frise, presented to Dr. Jarboe in mid September, 2010 for evaluation of progressive difficulty walking and discomfort over a 5-7 days time frame. At examination he was nearly paraplegic, with barely decernible movement in the back legs and was extremely uncomfortable with palpation along the middle of his back. MRI confirmed a disc rupture causing severe cord compression between his first and second lumbar vertebra as well as a moderate bulging disc at the lumbosacral region.

Surgery was performed by Dr. Jarboe at both sites and Rumble was released from the hospital two days later;  happy, comfortable, and walking ( albeit a little unsteady in his back legs)! Here's a picture of Rumble and his Dad, taken April 9, 2011 when they stopped by for a visit to let us see Rumble in all his glory, after coming from a grooming appointment! Rumble, while happy to see us, was also more than happy to run strongly back outside for the ride home! BVNS wishes to send a heartfelt thank you to the family for their impromtu visit to let us see Rumble moving so well!

April 1, 2011
Wash Out Lyme Disease! 

"Lyme disease is the #1 infectious disease in the country with cases doubling each year. As Lyme disease cases continue to rise, it is important to be aware of the dangers and risks Lyme disease can pose to your dogs and families. Our Mid-Atlantic region of the U.S. is considered to be an endemic area, and it is estimated that three in ten ticks carry the Borrelia burgdorferi bacteria that causes the debilitating disease. In our area, Loudon County and Fairfax County alone account for over half of Virginia's reported cases—and it is estimated that only 10% of cases are actually reported."

On May 22nd from noon to 3 pm, Regional Veterinary Referral Center (RVRC) is hosting a dog wash to benefit the National Capital Lyme and Tick-borne Disease Association. BVNS staff will be participating and joining in the fun. Please visit the RVRC site for more information. 

March 31, 2011
Chloe, a 4 year old female spayed Lhasa Apso, presented to BVNS Springfield on March 10, 2011 for a three day history of progressive severe back pain. An MRI (shown to the right) revealed a disk herniation that was compressing the nerve root at her T13-L1 disk space. A right-sided hemilaminectomy was performed and the offending disk material removed. Following surgery Chloe has progressed very well, is pain-free, and resting comfortably at home as you can see in the photo to the right.

We are also honored to receive a very generous thank you note and update from Choe's owner. Please visit our Testimonial page to read her comments. 

March 30, 2011
Bette (shown here enjoying a yummy treat) first began showing pain and discomfort in June 2010. She gradually improved over the following four months with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory and anti-pain medications. She continued on the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication and acupuncture was later initiated. In early March, 2011, she became painful again and only demonstrated temporarily improvements with anti-pain medications and muscle relaxants resulting in referral to BVNS on March 10, 2011. Upon examination, it was thought that one or more disc extrusions were the cause of her pain and discomfort.

Spinal imaging with MRI demonstrated a massive disc extrusion (rupture) at C2-C3 causing the cord to be compressed to nearly 66% of its normal size as well as a moderate disc extrusion at C3-C4 causing the cord to be compressed to nearly half its normal size and predominantly filling the left side and floor of the canal. MRI characteristics suggested the C2-C3 disc extrusion was the more acute or "newer" of the two disc extrusions. We recommended pursuing surgical decompression at both sites. During surgery, Dr. Jarboe encountered and evacuated non-adherent, talc-like, powdery disc material along the floor of the canal at C2-C3. Unfortunately, the disc material encountered at C3-C4 had the consistency of concrete and could not be removed without increased concerns of irreversible harm to Bette’s spinal cord. Thankfully, Bette has done fabulously!

Normal healthy disc material is jelly-like as it has to be compressible to do its job as the shock absorber between the vertebra. During the degenerative process, disc material can take on the form of dry, talc powder,  toothpaste, gritty material like pebbles or can become as hard as concrete. When a disc ruptures into the spinal canal, the body tries to wall it off by laying down scar tissue. This process typically results in the disc material being scarred to the surface of the spinal cord, nerves, and vasculature within the spinal canal. The longer disc material stays within the canal, the tighter the adhesions and the more concrete like the disc material becomes. Some have likened this to toothpaste when it drops in the sink. If it's cleaned up promptly, it is easily wiped away but if it sits in the sink for a week or two, well it takes much more effort to chip it away from the surface of the sink. In this case and in general, the key to success is early intervention. If a dog has had a low volume disc rupture under low to moderate velocity forces, they will likely be able to be managed for 3-5 days on anti-inflammatory and anti-pain medications along with 2-4 weeks of strict exercise restrictions and some life long lifestyle adjustments. However, if a dog is continuing to be painful or begins to have difficulty walking while it is being treated with anti-inflammatory and anti-pain medications or requires these medications longer than 5 days, then it likely has too much disc material in the canal squeezing the spinal cord or a different disease process that requires a different treatment entirely and referral to a veterinary neurologist becomes even more crucial for the pet's wellbeing.

You can also read the heartfelt and generous thank you note written by the owner by visiting the BVNS Testimonials page. 

March 29, 2011

March 28, 2011
The BVNS family would like to express our deepest sympathy to Robert and Susan regarding Lexie's passing. Lexie (shown here taking a nap during her stay at BVNS) was an incredibly loving, intelligent mature English Setter who presented to BVNS for evaluation of progressive seizure like episodes and dullness. Sadly, Lexie was one of the few patients where a definitive diagnosis and successful treatment plan eluded us despite advanced testing including brain MRI, spinal fluid analysis, infectious titers, electroencephalography, etc. While we made small improvements in her comfort level and decreased seizure like episodes, she continued to slowly deteriorates despite aggressive treatments aimed at infectious, immune mediated and neoplastic diseases of the brain. On 3/25/11, we learned of Lexie passing over to the Rainbow Bridge. It was a true honor meeting Robert and Susan and a true privilege providing care for Lexie. She was definitely "one of a kind" and will always hold a special place in our hearts.

March 18, 2011
Cheyenne, shown here with Dr. Bush, is an eight year old german shepherd who was referred to BVNS for significant low back pain that could not be explained by orthopedic disease (Cheyenne has had both hips replaced in the past). 

Drs. Hague and Bush suspected nerve compression in the low back and ordered a MRI and electrodiagnostic testing of the nerves of the low back. The MRI showed two areas of significant compression – compare the red arrows which show nerve compression to the yellow arrow which shows a normal space.

Cheyenne is pictured here approximately 8 days after surgery and is now thumping her tail on the ground when she sees her owner, which is something she has not done for a long time. We are hopeful we have alleviated all her back pain. Cheyenne was referred to BVNS by both Dr. Nikki Reiter at Carroltown Veterinary Hospital and Dr. Peter Lotsikas at VOSM.

March 14, 2011
BVNS is happy to announce that Dr. Bush was recently presented with a plaque expressing appreciation for his recent lectures at The DC Academy. On March 3rd, Larry Koffer, Executive Director and Dr. A'ndrea VanSchoick, President, presented Dr. Bush with a plaque in appreciation for his lectures on spinal cord localization and the five disk diseases in February. Dr. Bush was honored and excited at the recognition from The DC Academy.

March 11, 2011

Yesterday, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning to veterinarians about the possibility that phenobarbital tablets produced and labeled as phenobarbital by Qualitest Pharmaceuticals may actually be mislabeled hydrocodone tartrate and acetaminophen tablets. The company issued a recall of the phenobarbital tablets on February 5, 2011, but the FDA reports that they have recently received reports of severe adverse events associated with the administration of the mislabeled product to pets. NOTE: NO medication dispensed by BVNS is affected by this recall.

The affected products are Phenobarbital tablets, USP, 32.4 mg, NDC 0603-5166-32 in 1000-count bottles. Affected lot numbers are T150G10B, T120J10E and T023M10A (the lot numbers are printed on the side of the bottle).  The recalled lots were distributed between Sept. 21, 2010 and Dec. 29, 2010 to wholesale and retail pharmacies nationwide (including Puerto Rico).  

March 10, 2011
Squirrel, a 10 year old male cat was referred by Dr. Barbara Butler at Earlysville Animal Hospital to BVNS after having multiple seizures. MRI, CSF exam and infectious tests were all negative and as a result viral disease was suspected. After two days on three different seizure medications, Squirrel was still dull, had twitching of the eyelids and intermittent fever.

Because of the possibility of ongoing seizure, EEG or electrical recording of brain activity was performed. The results were very surprising:  Squirrel was in constant seizure on the EEG, a phenomenon called nonconvulsive status epilepticus. This diagnosis was confirmed with the assistance of Dr. Mark Stecker, a physician specializing in EEG and treatment of serious seizure disorders. With Dr. Stecker’s guidance, Drs. Cuff and Bush took Squirrel deep into a phenobarbital coma to stop the life threatening seizure and quiet the brain. Critical Care  (Drs. Barnes & Leonard, and Julie Antonelis, LVT, VTS) provided supportive care for Squirrel as he was placed deep into a life-saving coma. Cardiology (Drs. Pasieka & Tyrrell) care was also needed and provided daily support on a heart problem that was further complicating therapy.

After two weeks of near constant care, Squirrel improved dramatically and began eating, walking and actively interacting with his owners. He is pictured here one day before returning home to his family.

March 7, 2011
We are very excited to announce that Daily Operations Manager, Diana Stuebing has been selected for a position on the Executive Board of the Virginia Association of Licensed Veterinary Technicians. Diana will serve as Regional Director for Northern Virgina and will be responsible for the encouragement of LVT and LVT students through the organization of several CE events each year. Diana is very excited and honored by the appointment and everyone at BVNS is equally excited. Congratulations, Diana! 

March 4, 2011
Wellness Brand Pet Food Recall: The American Veterinary Medicine Association recently announced the voluntary recall of a few lots of Wellness brand pet food. This food was recalled by the company for being deficient in thiamine, which is a necessary amino acid in cats and a required part of their diet. Cats with a thiamine deficiency can show neurologic symptoms, manifesting as ataxia (incoordination), muscle weakness, ventroflexion of the neck (neck is bent downwards), seizures and/or dilated pupils. Cats may also show anorexia, vomiting and salivation. These symptoms are reversible by adding thiamine to the diet. To read more, visit the AVMA announcement.

March 3, 2011
Congratulations to Dr. David Brewer who has published important research on a spinal cord tumor called nephroblastoma  in the March 1, 2011 Journal of American Veterinary Medical Association. Nephroblastoma  is a poorly characterized condition that causes pain and pelvic limb weakness and paralysis in puppies and young dogs. This work, titled "Spinal Cord Nephroblastoma in Dogs: 11 Cases" has improved our understanding of this condition allowing for earlier diagnosis and a better outcome in future cases.

March 1, 2011
Recently, Doc, an 11 year old neutered male Greyhound (former racing Greyhound) was presented to BVNS for emergency evaluation of less than 24 hrs duration of back pain, an inability to move his pelvic limbs, and loss of deep pain perception in his pelvic limbs.

Statistically, the loss of deep perception within 24 hours suggest the patient has between 50-80% of obtaining neurologic improvement with appropriate care. Because MRI is a very sensitive imaging modality it can often help us determine if that prognosis is accurate or optimistic.  An MRI that was performed on Doc  identified severe spinal cord compression from hemorrhage and disc material extending from L2 to L4 canal. The spinal cord was compressed by 40-60% of its normal size through the three vertebral body canal segments. These diagnostic results combined with our assessment resulted in the recommendation of emergent spinal surgery which would give Doc his best chance for improvement. Doc's dedicated owner gave us permission to proceed with surgery which would eliminate the squeezing effects of the hemorrhage and disc material on the spinal cord and improve the canal environment in order to give the spinal cord it's best chance for improvement.

Prior to surgery, our team prepared the owner that Doc would likely need weeks of post surgery rehabilitation and, if improvement occurred that he would likely regain the majority of improvement in the initial 4-8 weeks following surgery with continued improvement possible for a full year. So far, Doc has done very well following his surgery and through his continued intensive supportive care and rehabilitation which is being provided by his dedicated owner and VOSM. Doc has return of superficial pain perception in his pelvic limbs, is able to urinate and defecate on his own, has voluntary movement in his pelvic limbs and is beginning to stand. His progress is well summarized in the following quote from his owner on Friday, February 25th: 

"He is eating, drinking and doing his outside business well without any accidents. Yesterday, leaving VOSM, he managed to lift his right leg to mark a bush, keeping his balance with only a little assistance from me. However, he is still buckling his paws and his balance is still off. Dr. Christopher is extremely pleased with his progress and believes he will walk soon on his own. Doc is happy now that he can stretch his legs and move around a little."

Given the dramatic improvements noted thus far, we truly believe Doc will go on to recover function in his back legs and run once again.

February 25, 2011
Today, we would like to officially announce that BVNS will be opening a practice in Richmond, Virginia! This new location, our third, will open this fall and we couldn't be more excited to be bringing the best in veterinary neurology and neurosurgery to the thousands of pet lovers who live in the Richmond area. To learn more, please click here. 

February 24, 2011
Tomorrow, our team is attending the VVMA show in Roanoke, Virginia. If you are also attending please stop by to pick up some information, meet our staff or just to say hi. We can't wait to see you!

February 14, 2011
Happy Valentine's Day everyone. Don't forget that today your furry friends deserve some extra love too. 

February 3, 2011
Did you attend the DC Academy event today? Want to learn more? 

Today, as a part of our ongoing effort to advance the practice of neurology, Dr. Bush presented two talks on spinal cord localization and the five disk diseases to The DC Academy. If you attended the event and would like to ask a question or comment or would like to be emailed about future CE events then please use this form.

These talks highlighted the importance of MRI in veterinary neurology. MRI is one of several excellent diagnostic imaging procedures that are available to the patients of Bush Veterinary Neurology Service. MRI imaging is made available by Bush Advanced Veterinary Imaging, a separate company which provides state-of-the-art advanced imaging at two locations in Northern Virginia. Please note, area veterinarians can refer directly to Bush Advanced Veterinary Imaging for outpatient imaging or refer to BVNS knowing that we have onsite access to the best MRI available. Please contact BVNS for more information or visit Bush Advanced Veterinary Imaging to learn more about their services. 

February 1, 2011
Riley was referred by Dr. Nancy Barnett at Stonewall Veterinary Clinic for being unable to rise, muscle loss,  and being very painful. He would persistently whine and cry throughout the day and night. He was diagnosed via MRI with an infection of the intervertebral disks and adjacent bone and soft tissue. It was inferred that the infection was from a Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) because this bacteria was grown in his urine one month prior to presenting to Dr. Bush at BVNS. Riley was treated with aggressive pain management, the use of clindamycin and a slow tapering course of prednisone. This treatment combined with a very dedicated owner ultimately allowed Riley to survive this disease. The owner has recently the following note and this picture.

"I just wanted to send you a quick email to not only update you, but also thank you once again for saving my boxer Riley! It’s been a little over a year and half since he was one of your patients and he actually turns 9 this month and is doing great! He is completely off of the steroids and remains on a small dose of his antibiotics and acetaminophen for his arthritis. I am sure you are so busy, but I really wanted to thank you again for your knowledge and your efforts that have kept Riley with me for this long!" - Laura

January 31, 2011
At BVNS we are all pet owners and pet lovers and we recognize and know just how hard it can be to lose a pet to disease, accident or old age. Which is why we are dedicated to making sure that our clients who must face a loss don't have to face it alone and also why our site now contains a Pet Loss Resource which we will update frequently! If you have any suggestions for content that has helped you and might help others, please feel free to send it to us at info@bvns.net. 

January 19, 2011
The team at BVNS would like to congratulate Scott Petesch on his recent acceptance into the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine! Please join us in our congratulations and recognition of his hard work, dedication and passion. Scott will be a great addition to the world of veterinary medicine and while we will miss him while he is in school, we look forward to hearing of all the success we are sure Scott will have. 

January 17, 2011
"The time is always right to do what is right." - Martin Luther King, Jr.

On this day of service, we felt the above quotation was worthy of reflection. Let us all try to remember that while what we do today is important we must remember that everyday is an opportunity to do what is right, to live with hope and love and to brighten the future of our world, our community and our pets. Our team works hard to embody this thought each day through their life-changing and often life-saving heroism. So please join us in thanking them and please remember that each moment is a choice, a choice between doing what is right and what is easy. 

And if you can't save a life today or if you are working and don't have time to volunteer then we hope you remember that even small acts have a great impact. Whether you are just kinder to your loved ones, you help clean up your neighborhood or you donate to your local animal shelter, the act of doing matters as much as what you do.

January 14, 2011
On February 3rd, 2011, Dr. William Bush will moderate a discussion on disk disease at DC Academy. To learn more about this event and the topics that will be discussed, please visit our Continuing Education page. 

If you cannot attend but are interested in this content, click here and indicate your interest in learning more about disk disease. 

January 13, 2011

Case Report: Henry (shown here with Dr. Bush) is a 2 year-old French Bulldog referred by Dr. Peter Pruckowski at Catoctin Veterinary Clinic for being weak and wobbly on the pelvic limbs, lame on a right thoracic limb, lethargic and febrile.

Neck pain and joint pain were present on Dr. Hague and Dr. Bush’s examination and we deduced the problem was either an infection or immune disease of the joints and lining of the meninges. This is also called polyarthropathy and meningitis. Drs. Hague and Bush did not feel a MRI was required, but instead choose to run blood tests and assess his response to medication. Henry made a rapid and complete recovery but with an interesting twist. Interestingly, Henry improved on antibiotics despite infectious tests that came back as normal. Henry's recovery was even more surprising because he also tested positive for immune disease and yet recovered without receiving any immune modulating drugs. Despite these mysteries, we couldn't be happier with his recovery. 

Going forward, we have decided to monitor him closely for development of immune disease in the future and treat for four more weeks with antibiotics. Despite being a clinical challenge, Henry is a clear favorite at the clinic as evidenced by this picture with Dr. Bush.  We expect Henry will stay well for a long time to come.

January 11, 2011
Today, we'd like to share one of the many heart-warming success stories we were a part of this past holiday season.

Biscuit was initially seen 2 days before Christmas because she couldn't move her right front leg. Her quality of life was poor but we were hopeful that we could help improve her condition. Biscuit underwent MRI, which showed a severe disk extrusion resulting in emergency surgery the evening of 12/22. The surgery was successful and after a short recovery we are happy to report that she WAS HOME WALKING FOR CHRISTMAS. Pictured is Biscuit with her owner Steve, ready for an exciting 2011.

Thank you to Dr. Lisa Marsico from Del Ray Animal Hospital in Alexandria for referring this case to BVNS.

January 7, 2011
Chauncey Nims, a 10 yr old neutered male Pug presented to BVNS on December 23rd for evaluation of 23 days of progressive, intense neck pain which was unresponsive to anti pain medications and NSAIDs. At presentation, he carried his head low, kept his neck in a fixed position, would scream if he moved his neck from it's fixed position, had pronounced nearly continuous resting neck muscle spasms, and avoided human contact or touch by keeping his tail down and tucked between his legs. Chauncey was scheduled for an MRI which revealed a severe disc extrusion (as shown here) causing approximately 50% cord compression between his 2nd and 3rd cervical vertebrae. A ventral slot decompression surgery was performed at C2-C3 where a voluminous amount of degenerative disc material was removed from the ventral canal providing the spinal cord much needed decompression. Upon recovery from surgery, Chauncey was immediately improved, moving his head and neck through its full range of motion, wagging his tail, and demanding attention and affection from the staff. He has continued to be pain free and happy since his release from BVNS!

January 5, 2011
While most of us were celebrating the holidays and taking time away from work for family and friends, there were lives that needed saving and pets that needed help. Which is why many of our staff members were busy working, saving lives and making sure our patients and their families got the best holiday gift possible - more time and better health! 

Between Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year's Eve and New Year's Day our team of specialists and our support staff took time from their holidays to help 29 patients, perform 15 MRI's and 6 surgeries. For many of these patients, our efforts have allowed them to look forward to a much improved and hopefully pain free 2011. Our staff knows that neurology never sleeps and that whether it is a holiday or a normal Wednesday in January, when your pet needs care our staff needs to be there to help.

To our staff - thank you for knowing how important your jobs are and for being willing to sacrifice your holidays for the betterment of our patients. BVNS is blessed to have such a great team, a team that performs miracles every day and is a joy to work alongside. Thank you a million times over for your effort and your kindness. 

January 4, 2011

Tenchi is a 6 year-old Chihuahua that came to Dr. Hague and Dr. Bush from Richmond on New Year's day paralyzed on the right pelvic limb and unable to walk. MRI showed a disease called fibrocartilaginous emboli (FCE),  which develops when disk material clogs the blood vessel to the spinal cord resulting in a spinal cord stroke. This is common in large dogs and pigs, but uncommon to rare in small dogs and people. Studies show that if more than 90% of the spinal cord is diseased on cross sectional imaging the patient will not get better. Happily only 60% of the spinal cord was affected and Tenchi will likely make a complete recovery over the next 6 weeks! We are happy that we could help Tenchi and his family during a very difficult time. 

December 31, 2010
Also, please note that our Leesburg practice is open for regular hours today. Tomorrow, January 1st we will be closed but available for emergency appointments. We can be reached via our main phone line in the case of an emergency. Please have a safe and wonderful New Year!

December 30, 2010
We would like to say happy holidays and happy New Years to all! Enjoy your New Years Eve and New Years day but please do so safely in the company of your friends, family and your furry loved ones. Thank you for making 2010 a fantastic year for BVNS and our patients. It is your support and the hard work, untiring love, dedication and effort of our staff that makes it possible for us to improve the lives of so many. Thank you to all who work so hard to make this possible!

December 9, 2010

Case Profile: Fred, a Dalmatian/Bassett cross, was referred to BVNS by Dr. Kivlinghn ay Westwood Animal Hospital for persistent weakness and wobbliness on the pelvic limbs (back legs) and back pain. Because of his confirmation and previous radiographic findings, Drs. Cuff and Bush suspected a ruptured disk in the mid back. A MRI was performed and showed mild to moderate disk extrusion with subsequent nerve and spinal cord pinching. For now, Fred will be managed with pain medication and rest and if he does not improve with medication he will have surgery. We hope Fred and his parents the best as he recovers and, hopefully, improves. 

December 8, 2010
BVNS is happy to announce the release of our most current Neurotransmitter which is being mailed today and was sent out via email this morning. You can review the case report , download a PDF of the Neurotransmitter and sign up to receive future editions via email by visiting this page. Thank you for your continued support for this and all the educational material we work hard to produce.

December 6, 2010
BVNS performs BAER testing, which is used by many breeders and pet owners as a hearing test for dogs and cats. BAER stands for Brainstem Auditory Evoked Response, and is an electrodiagnostic test to determine if brainstem and hearing function is present in a patient.



Dr. Hague has performed the BAER test on Nuxhy, Sam, and Gracie (pictured above from left to right). Depending on the temperament of the patient, this test can be performed with just mild sedation, though some rambunctious patients require a heavier sedation.

BAER Testing: Sounds (90 decibel clicks) are made with head phones in each ear (just like when a person gets their hearing tested) and a recording is made from the skin over the head to obtain the waveforms pictured in the diagram. The first 2 waveforms tell us how the ear and nerve are working and the rest tell us how well the brainstem is functioning. The picture on the left is an example of a normal BAER test (with the multiple waveforms) and the picture on the right is an example of an abnormal BAER test (no waveforms).

November 30, 2010
BVNS is happy to announce the winners of the Neurotransmitter Email Contest. The winners are Dr. Anne Garrood of Great Falls Animal Hospital, Dr. Jarrod Ludwig of Seneca Hill Animal Hospital, Dr. Linda Banish of Paradise Animal Hospital, Dr. Thomas Jones of Ashburn Veterinary Hospital and Dr. Mike Berbert of Gaithersburg Animal Hospital. Congratulations to each of you and thank you for your support and interest in our publications. Each winner will be contacted shortly!

November 3, 2010
Case Profile: Taz, a 12 year old female spayed Pomeranian Mix, presented to BVNS Springfield at the end of September for severe weakness (tetraparesis) of all four limbs and neck pain. She was unable to walk or support weight when assisted. An MRI showed a lateralized (right-sided) disk herniation at C4-C5. A ventral slot (decompressive spinal surgery) was performed and a large amount of disk material was removed. At recheck 2 weeks post-operatively, Taz’s owners report that she is able to stand and walk at home, and is no longer experiencing any pain.

October 29, 2010

Maddie is 7 year old female spayed Golden Retriever that presented to BVNS for seizure-like episodes and loss of balance. A MRI of Maddie's  brain revealed a tumor compressing the back part of the cerebellum. The following day Maddie underwent surgery to remove the tumor. The biopsy of the tumor returned as a meningioma. Following treatment, Maddie has gone back to being her normal self despite her ongoing radiation therapy. Her owners are ecstatic at how well she is doing and we expect Maddie to do very well in the future. 

October 27, 2010
Case Profile: Hobbes is a 2 year Weimaraner who presented to BVNS Springfield in August for fever, neck/back/joint pain, and intermittent lameness. Hobbes' CSF (cerebrospinal fluid) showed a severe neutrophilic pleocytosis and an elevated protein. Hobbes was diagnosed with sterile meningitis, also known as steroid responsive meningitis arteritis, a disease in which Weimaraners are predisposed. One month later, Hobbes is pain free and back to his normal self.

October 19, 2010
We are excited to announce the release of the first BVNS Neurotransmitter today! The BVNS Neurotransmitter  is a new educational series that highlights an interesting case our team has handled and provides take-home points for referring veterinarians. Our hope is that through increased exposure to neurological cases our area veterinarians can provide better care to their patients. To learn more about this project, please click here and if you would like to sign up to receive the neurotransmitter via email, please click here. 

October 14, 2010
Fellow veterinarian Dr. Ashley Hughes of the Friendship Animal Hospital in DC has a featured review of BVNS on the site DC Ladies. You can check it out here. Thank you for the kind words and continued support, Dr. Hughes!

October 11, 2010
In honor of National Veterinary Technician's Week here is a note of appreciation for our wonderful support staff from our Daily Operations Manager, Diana Steubing. Please join Diana and BVNS in expressing your appreciation for all their hard work!

"This week we celebrate National Veterinary Technician’s Week and I wanted to take a moment to write a letter of appreciation to the technician’s that I am fortunate enough to work with.

As a licensed veterinary technician myself, I am proud to work with such a fantastic group of professionals. Each brings an amazing amount of technical talent and has such passion for our profession, that they challenge me to be a better technician each day. I am in constant awe of their level of compassion and knowledge. They care for our patients as if they were their own.

As a manager, I am lucky to have such a committed team. Each day, they come to work and give 110%. They work well as a team; watch out for each other; stay late without being asked; and provide leadership to the rest of our support staff.

While I try to express my gratitude for all they do all year round, we take this week to remember and celebrate what an important role each technician plays and thank them for their commitment to our patients, clients, and team."

-Diana Steubing

September 30, 2010
Vinny, one of our favorite patients, is shown here. He hails from Richmond and presented to the Leesburg practice almost 2 years ago semi-comatose and unable to walk. To read a bit more about his case, head over to our Facebook page. 

September 23, 2010
This weekend several BVNS neurologists will be heading to the University of Georgia to participate in a veterinary neurology conference and to present the work of a few of our team members. Details are below:

 Drs. Tiches, Jarboe and Bush will be heading to a neurology conference at the University of Georgia this weekend. BVNS will be presenting Dr. Young’s work on Prototheca which is an infectious condition of the brain, Dr. Cuff’s work on the use of C Reactive Protein as a diagnostic aid in cases with Diskospondylitis, which is an infectious condition of the spinal column, and Dr. Bush will be part of a panel discussion that will discuss how BVNS diagnoses and treats cases of granulomatous meningoencephalomyelitis (GME), which is a very common and serious ailment of the brain and spinal cord.

September 22, 2010
We're sad to announce the recent passing of our patient, Bailey. We are glad we were able to give her an extra 18 months with her family and a chance to enjoy her favorite place, Assateague Island beach, at least one more time. Visit our Facebook page to see a photo of Bailey getting her paws wet on Assateague Island. 

September 13, 2010
Want to read about our latest featured case? Head over to our Facebook page to view images and read about our patient, Cody Colvin!

September 7, 2010
BVNS is very pleased to announce that Mindy Kelm, LVT has been promoted to Team Leader (Lead LVT) at our Springfield practice. Congratulations and thank you for all your hard work, Mindy! 

September 2, 2010
Congratulations to Dr. David Brewer and his wife, Leslie, who welcomed their second child into the world today! Ty David Brewer, welcome to the world and to the BVNS family! 

August 20, 2010
Zoey, a cute little Dachshaund who presented with an ability to stand up due to spinal compression. After an emergency appointment and emergency surgery at BVNS, she was sent home and is improving everyday! Head over to our Facebook to learn more. 

August 18, 2010
Head over to the BVNS Facebook page to take a look at a handsome Frederick Police Dog named Balu. Balu was recently treated by Drs. Hague and Jarboe at BVNS for problems with his lumbosacral spine and is now walking, wagging his tail and is pain free!

August 13, 2010
Princess White was brought in to BVNS because she was unable to walk but thanks to our specialists and staff, she can now use stairs and walks without difficulty! Read all about her case below on our Facebook page.

August 11, 2010
King is a twelve-year old mixed breed who was referred to BVNS due to an inability to stand up. Head over to our Facebook page to read his whole story and see a photo of King post-surgery with his favorite toy and our staff member, Hannah. 

August 10, 2010
Head over to our Facebook page to read about the story of Mischief, a beautiful kitty with a new lease on life thanks to the specialists at BVNS.  

July 30, 2010
Check out Cooper M's story on our Facebook page. Cooper had a blade of grass migrate up his neck and it created an abscess. This is very rare and difficult to diagnose. Dr.'s Jarboe and Cuff removed the abscess and Cooper is back to his happy self! 

July 26, 2010
Congratulations to our newest staff neurologist,  Dr. David Brewer, DACVIM (neurology), on passing the veterinary neurology board certification exam! Dr. Brewer will start seeing patients at the BVNS Leesburg location on August 9th. Welcome Dr. Brewer and congratulations on such an accomplishment!

July 23, 2010
Congratulations to BVNS resident, Dr. Martin Young, on passing his medicine board exams!!! We are all so proud of him. 

July 21, 2010
BVNS would like to welcome Dr. Casey Neary. Dr. Neary will be doing a one year neurology internship at the Springfield, VA location. 

March 29, 2010
  Please stop by and visit BVNS at EarthDay@Loudoun, Sunday April 25th from 11 am - 4 pm. We will have goodies for the kids and adults alike. For more information about EarthDay@ Loudoun please visit: www.earthdayatloudoun.org See you all there!

March 17, 2010
 BVNS is pleased to announce our 2^nd location. Starting May 10, 2010 we will be open and seeing appointments at Regional Veterinary Referral Center located at 6651 Backlick Road, Springfield, VA. This location will also have on site MRI.  Please call 703.669.2829 for questions or to make an appointment.

March 14, 2010
 BVNS will be participating in a day of Continue Education on April 22, 2010 at  Waterford at Springfield. For more information: www.vetreferralcenter.com/ce.htm

March 9, 2010
Bush Veterinary Neurology Service (BVNS) is pleased to announce the recent acquisition of PetsDx VA, LLC, Leesburg, VA. “Advanced imaging is an essential component to the diagnosis and treatment of neurologic disease; we are excited to have this capability under the BVNS umbrella,” said Dr. William Bush, Chief Medical Officer for BVNS. “The same quality and exceptional client service you have come to expect from BVNS will continue through to our new imaging company, Bush Advanced Veterinary Imaging.”
 
Bush Advanced Veterinary Imaging’s mission remains to continue to adapt the newest MRI technology to animals in order to provide the highest quality diagnostic MR and CT imaging for BVNS, area specialists, and local general practitioners.

February 25, 2010
 Thank you to Dr. Ashley Hughes for her wonderful story about Sparkle and BVNS. www.friendshiptails.com

February 10, 2010
BVNS knows the snow is a drag for all of us here on the east coast. We would like to turn the Snowpocalypse of 2010 into a positive experience! Post your favorite picture of your pet in the snow to our Facebook page and on Monday we will pick a winner and donate $250 in the winners name to The Rascal Foundation. We're looking forward to seeing all of your fabulous pets pictures!  Stay warm, the team at BVNS.

February 8, 2010
Dr. Devon Hague, DVM, Neurology/Neurosurgery Resident,  will be speaking at the Greyhound in Gettysburg on April 24, 2010. Dr. Hague's talk will focus on Treatment for Lameness Caused by Neurologic Disease and Trauma. 
 
When: April 24, 2010
Location: Outlet Shoppes at Gettysburg former Pfaltzgraff space (Suite 770), Gettysburg, PA
Time: 12:30pm - 1:20pm

This informative session will discuss neurological and orthopedic lameness as well as the diagnosis and treatment of disk disease

For more information on the event, please visit:
greyhoundsingettysburg.com

November 16, 2009
BVNS will be presenting "Nursing Care for the Down Patient" at Caring Hands Animal Hospital, Monday, November 16th. Thank you Dr. Vitulli and Karen for the opportunity to work with your team.

November 11, 2009
BVNS is proud to launch our new website.

November 7, 2009
Dr. Bill Bush and family are pleased to announce the birth of their baby boy Aiden Aeneas. Mom and baby are well and big brother William is adjusting nicely.

November 1, 2009
 BVNS launched their Facebook fan page.

September 1, 2009
 We are pleased to welcome our second resident, Dr. Devon Hague. More »

August 15, 2009
We are pleased to announce Dr. Joli Jarboe has joined the BVNS team. More »

August 2, 2009
BVNS welcomes its first Neurology Intern, Dr. Daniel Cuff. More »

March 1, 2009
Sam's Story

Sam, a 2 year-old German shepherd who was shot by police during a robbery investigation, receives a CT scan and MRI would give us a better idea of what type of damage the bullet had caused.