Veterinary Neurology

Neurology Team Members

Veterinarians
Gina Barone, DVM, DACVIM
Bethany Pastina, DVM, DACVIM

Tara Tischio, DVM (Practice Limited to Neurology)
Hooman Mesgarani, DVM

Veterinary Technicians
Kristin Stephens, LVT; Feyza Canveren, LVT

MRI Technicians
Samantha Lutynski R.T. (R), MPA 
Steven Ruggiero R.T. (R)

Veterinary Assistant
Kelly Pisarz, Neurology Lead, Caiya DeVerna

Neurology Overview

The Neurology Specialty service at the Veterinary Medical Center of Long Island is uniquely qualified to offer diagnostic evaluation and treatment in the specialty of small animal neurology. Our board-certified staff neurologist uses their advanced training and expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of small animal neurological diseases, both medical and surgical, with state-of-the-art equipment and facilities.

Our dedicated surgical suites are equipped to provide the highest-level patient care and monitoring. Specially trained and licensed veterinary technicians continuously monitor patients undergoing surgical procedures and complete attention continues post-operatively, including post-surgical pain management, physical therapy and rehabilitation.

Neurology Services Include

• Intervertebral disc herniation
• Spinal Fractures
• Wobblers Syndrome
• Spinal fractures and Tumors
• Brain tumors

Additionally, our imaging department offers the latest advances in digital radiology, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, C-arm fluoroscopy, and Computed Tomography. All of our imaging studies are obtained in a digital format, which is transferred and stored on our image database. These modalities are utilized extensively for all myelogram studies within the Neurology department. This equates to higher quality studies in less time, which reduces patient anesthetic and recovery time.

If you would like your client’s pet to be evaluated by a member of our Neurology team, please contact reception to schedule an appointment. The Neurology team frequently accommodates emergency referrals during office hours and is on call for emergency surgeries after hours.

Alternatively, your client’s pet can be admitted through the emergency service 24 hours a day, 365 days a year for stabilization and transfer to our Neurology team.

Therapy During Conservative Treatment for the Paralyzed Dog
by Giuliana G. Lerch, BS, LVT, CCRP, Member AARV, LIVMA, Four Leg Rehab, Inc. Academy of Physical Rehabilitation Veterinary Technician (proposed) – organizing committee

Dogs on conservative treatment crate rest who are not paralyzed are able to move around a bit in the crate and at potty time to keep their joints and muscles toned. No additional therapy is necessary.

However, a downed paralyzed dog can’t move his back legs and the owner will need to help. Very light passive PT and massage must be limited to the least aggressive methods during crate rest for the downed dog. Delay passive PT activity until off medications and all swelling has gone down and the dog is no longer in pain. Check with your vet before starting.