In this episode of Diagnostic Tails, Dr. Amy Armentrout and Dr. Lon Hays dive into the realities of tackling challenging imaging cases—from unexpected findings like bullets and migrating microchips, to rare diagnoses and exotic patients like sharks and camels. They pull back the curtain on what happens when imaging doesn’t go as planned, the importance of collaboration with referring veterinarians and specialists, and how financial considerations and anesthesia risks play into client decision-making. This episode reminds practitioners to maximize in-house diagnostics, stay mindful of anesthesia protocols, and embrace teamwork to deliver the best outcomes possible.

Key Takeaways

• Unexpected Findings:
• Metal objects like bullets or plates can render MRIs useless, requiring a switch to CT.
• Microchips can interfere with imaging or migrate to unexpected locations—scan broadly when searching.
• Collaboration Matters:
• Real-time sharing of images with neurologists, surgeons, and specialists helps guide diagnostics.
• Quick communication with referring veterinarians ensures timely decisions while patients are under anesthesia.
• Anesthesia & Patient Safety:
• Sedation/anesthesia is necessary for clear, diagnostic images—wiggling patients lead to unusable results.
• Protocols are tailored to patient age, breed, and health conditions to minimize risk.
• Pediatric and very small patients can pose unique anesthetic and imaging challenges.
• Exotic & Memorable Cases:
• Beyond dogs, cats, and horses, Animal Imaging has imaged hedgehogs, guinea pigs, cheetahs, zebra sharks, stingrays, and soon—a camel named Wednesday.
• Diagnostic Lessons:
• Where possible take in-house x-rays first—they may reveal conditions (e.g., osteosarcoma, foreign bodies) before advanced imaging.
• Don’t overlook ultrasound practice; frequent scanning improves.

Resources Mentioned

• Southwest Veterinary Symposium – Meet Dr. Lon Hays and the Animal Imaging team (last weekend of September).
• Animal Imaging Services – Advanced imaging for equine, small animal, and exotic cases, including MRI, CT, scintigraphy, and ultrasound.
• Veterinary Safety Tips – Use proper PPE (lead aprons, thyroid shields) during radiographs; collimation improves image quality and reduces exposure.

Animal Imaging Veterinary Radiology Specialists

https://animalimaging.net/

(972) 869-2180

[email protected]

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/AnimalImaging/

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

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/animalimaging/?hl=en

Ever wish you could download 30 years of veterinary wisdom in under an hour? In this special episode, Dr. Amy Armentrout sits down with her co-host, Dr. Lon Hays, to reflect on his 30-year journey—from new grad to clinic owner to seasoned veterinarian at Animal Imaging.

Together, they explore how diagnostics, treatments, and practice culture have evolved over the years. Dr. Hays shares candid stories from “the dark ages” of flea and tick dips and daily heartworm prevention, to the modern tools transforming general practice — like long-acting injectables, CT-guided aspirates, and bone scans.

Whether you're a new grad wrestling with imposter syndrome, a seasoned practitioner navigating today's veterinary landscape, or a student wondering about specialization, this episode delivers practical wisdom, heartfelt honesty, and career-long lessons in how to keep learning, leading, and loving the job.

📚 Resources & Takeaways:

👥 Career Thoughts:

• New Grads: You’re not alone. Ask, collaborate, and learn by doing
• Mid-Career Vets: If you’re burning out, try something new—it’s never too late to pivot
• Aspiring Owners: Start early, trust your staff, and run your clinic like a team
• General Practitioners: You can practice high-end medicine without being boarded—your curiosity is your credential

📞 Referring Veterinarian Tips:

• Unsure which imaging modality fits? Call us—Dr. Hays and the team are here to help
• We partner with you—we don’t “take the case,” we help solve it
• Bone scans, CT-guided aspirates, and nuclear imaging can dramatically speed up diagnoses

🎓 Upcoming Event:

• Neurology CE Series (Fall) – Stay tuned for details
• Don’t miss Dr. Rich’s practical approach to neurology for general practitioners

Connect with Animal Imaging Veterinary Radiology Specialists

https://animalimaging.net/

(972) 869-2180

[email protected]

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/AnimalImaging/

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

Instagam https://www.instagram.com/animalimaging

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

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

⏱️ Timestamps & Topics

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Notable Quotes

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

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

Resources & Takeaways

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

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

Practical Tools for General Practitioners:

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

📆 Upcoming CE Event

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

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

Animal Imaging Veterinary Radiology Specialists

https://animalimaging.net/

(972) 869-2180

[email protected]

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/AnimalImaging/

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

Instagam https://www.instagram.com/animalimaging/?hl=en

In this episode of Diagnostic Tails, Dr. Amy Armentrout and Dr. Lon Hays sit down with internationally renowned rehab specialist Dr. Michelle Broadhurst. Drawing on her background in human chiropractic and decades of experience in both equine and small animal rehabilitation, Dr. Broadhurst dives into powerful recovery stories and breakthrough treatments—from helping paralyzed pets walk again to utilizing cutting-edge tools like shockwave and EMTT therapy. Discover how early intervention, diagnostic precision, and a collaborative rehab approach are transforming outcomes in veterinary medicine.

Timestamps

00:00 – Intro: Welcome to Diagnostic Tails & introduction of Dr. Michelle Broadhurst

01:10 – Dr. Broadhurst’s background: From human chiropractic to equine and small animal rehab

03:00 – What is veterinary rehab?: Beyond recovery—addressing compensation and full-body healing

05:00 – Common cases: Paralysis, post-surgical care, aging pets, and arthritis

06:15 – Prehab and strengthening before surgery

07:10 – Importance of client compliance and home exercises

08:00 – Environmental adaptations: Traction, nail trims, yoga mats & more

09:00 – Modalities used in rehab: Laser, water treadmill, shockwave, EMTT, Teca system, manual therapy

12:30 – Favorite tools: Hands, shockwave, EMTT

13:00 – Case study: 17-year-old hound regains mobility after paralysis

15:00 – Ideal patient personalities and how treatment is tailored

16:00 – Future of rehab: Standard of care, post-surgical protocols, and integrative teams

17:30 – Custom rehab plans vs. one-size-fits-all approaches

19:00 – Addressing soft tissue complications post-surgery

20:00 – Imaging in rehab: MRI, ultrasound, and diagnostics as cornerstones

22:30 – Final thoughts: Importance of diagnostics and access to Dr. Broadhurst’s clinic

Notable Quotes

“Rehab isn’t just about recovery—it’s about restoring function and preventing future breakdown.” – Dr. Michelle Broadhurst

“In rehab, your hands are your best tool—but shockwave and EMTT have absolutely transformed how we treat neurological cases.” – Dr. Michelle Broadhurst

“Diagnostics are the cornerstone of any good potential outcome. The more we know, the better we can treat.” – Dr. Michelle Broadhurst

“We used to have these cookie-cutter rehab plans. Now, we’re understanding how dynamic recovery truly is—every case needs a tailored approach.” – Dr. Amy Armentrout

Valuable Takeaways & Resources

Key Concepts:

• Functional rehab is essential after injury or surgery to prevent compensatory issues.
• Prehab (rehab before surgery) helps shorten recovery times and improve outcomes.
• Neurological plasticity means animals can regain function even a year or more post-injury.
• Client education and compliance are vital for long-term success.
• Environmental modifications—grippy surfaces, trimmed nails, ramps—can make or break a recovery.

Modalities Highlighted:

• Shockwave Therapy: For tendons, ligaments, and arthritis
• EMTT (Extracorporeal Magnetic Transduction Therapy): Game-changer for neuro rehab
• Underwater treadmill: Reduces weight-bearing, retrains gait
• Manual therapy & chiropractic: Crucial hands-on components
• Laser & Teca Therapy: Reduce inflammation and promote tissue healing

Case Highlight:

A 17-year-old daschund with paralysis regained mobility, continence, and quality of life through a comprehensive rehab plan and committed owner involvement.

Tail End Tip:

Always image both sides. The “unaffected” side may surprise you. If you’ve got them on the table, take the extra shot.

Connect with Dr. Broadhurst

🔗 rehab4pets.com

📱 Instagram / TikTok / Facebook: @rehab4pets

Animal Imaging Veterinary Radiology Specialists

https://animalimaging.net/

(972) 869-2180

[email protected]

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/AnimalImaging/

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

IG https://www.instagram.com/animalimaging/?hl=en

In this episode of Diagnostic Tails, Dr. Lon Hays sits down with Dr. Mikaela Maldonado, a veterinary fellow at Animal Imaging with a passion for equine medicine and diagnostic imaging. Together, they explore five fascinating cases where imaging was critical in solving complex medical mysteries—from urinary incontinence in a French Bulldog to an esophageal disorder in a Dachshund. Dr. Maldonado shares the importance of each imaging modality, how contrast and fluoroscopy can change outcomes, and why sometimes the answers lie in what we don’t expect to find.

Timestamps:

[00:00] Intro to the podcast and guest, Dr. Mikaela Maldonado

[01:00] Dr. Maldonado’s background and fellowship role

[02:45] Case 1: Meli the French Bulldog – CT contrast reveals ectopic ureter

[06:00] Importance of contrast in urinary diagnostics

[07:00] Case 2: Bear the Rottweiler – Chronic lameness uncovers lung disease

[10:00] Reflections on diagnostic tiers and uncovering the unexpected

[11:00] Case 3: Finn the Labrador – MRI reveals spinal lesions and suspected cancer

[15:30] Role of MRI, CSF tap, and fluoroscopy in spinal diagnostics

[18:00] Case 4: Chopper the Dachshund – Fluoroscopy uncovers rare esophageal dysfunction

[23:00] Phases of swallowing and real-time imaging insights

[26:00] Big-picture takeaways on imaging, finances, and client communication

[28:00] Tail End Tip: MRI safety and referral best practices

Notable Quotes:

• “If you don’t look, you’re not going to see.”
• “Different modalities shine in different ways—and sometimes, the best answer comes from using more than one.”

Resources & Takeaways:

Imaging Modalities Discussed:

• CT with contrast: Key for mapping urinary tract abnormalities (Meli)
• MRI: Essential in assessing spinal cord involvement (Finn)
• Fluoroscopy/Esophagram: Captures dynamic swallowing issues in real-time (Chopper)
• Radiographs & CSF Taps: Complement imaging findings for deeper diagnostic clarity

Veterinary Practice Pearls:

• Educate clients on how one imaging result informs the next step.
• Think in layers: physical exam → radiographs → advanced imaging → fluid analysis.
• Don't underestimate the power of imaging to shift or affirm a diagnosis.

Animal Imaging Veterinary Radiology Specialists

https://animalimaging.net/

(972) 869-2180

[email protected]

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/AnimalImaging/

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

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/animalimaging/?hl=en

In this episode of Diagnostic Tails, hosts Dr. Amy Armentrout and Dr. Lon Hays are joined by board-certified cardiologist Dr. Christian Weder. They dive deep into the world of veterinary cardiology. The discussion covers everything from the basics of echocardiograms—described as “an ultrasound of the heart in the most simplistic terms”—to the nuances of diagnosing heart disease in dogs and cats. Listeners gain insights into the value of advanced imaging, how breed predispositions affect screening decisions, and what practical tips can help primary practitioners feel confident in managing cardiac cases. Real-life case studies, illustrate how precision in imaging not only rules in but also rules out heart failure, ultimately shaping better patient care.

Timestamps

[00:00:00] – Introduction

Welcome to Diagnostic Tales, outlining the focus on real-life diagnostic stories in veterinary imaging.

[00:01:00] – Guest Introductions

Dr. Lon Hayes and Dr. Christian Weder join the discussion. Dr. Weder introduces his background and experience in veterinary cardiology and telemedicine.

[00:02:00] – What is an Echocardiogram?

Explanation of echocardiography in simple terms and its role in pinpointing heart conditions.

[00:03:00] – Human vs. Veterinary Echocardiography

Discussion on the similarities between human and veterinary echo procedures, including the use of advanced imaging technology.

[00:04:00] – Indications for an Echocardiogram

How primary veterinarians decide when to refer patients for an echo, including considerations of heart murmurs and clinical signs.

[00:05:00] – Establishing Baselines and Diagnostic Accuracy

The importance of baseline imaging and the sensitivity of echocardiograms in detecting heart disease.

[00:07:00] – Breed Predispositions

Screening recommendations for breeds at risk for cardiomyopathy and mitral valve disease.

[00:08:00] – Echocardiography in Cats

Unique challenges in diagnosing feline heart conditions, including stress-induced murmurs and systemic illnesses.

[00:10:00] – Monitoring Disease Progression

How recheck echoes (typically every 6–12 months) help track disease progression and inform treatment decisions.

[00:11:00] – The Cough Conundrum

Clarifying misconceptions around coughing in dogs and the risk of attributing all coughs to heart disease.

[00:12:00] – Sedation and Imaging Techniques

Discussion on patient management during echocardiograms, including when sedation is used.

[00:16:00] – Case Study: Effusion and Emergency Imaging

A case where an echo helped rule out heart failure in a dog with both chest and abdominal effusions.

[00:18:00] – Case Study 1

[00:20:00] – Case Study 2

[00:22:00] – Tail End Tip for Practitioners

Final advice for primary practitioners on using fundamentals of cardiology to build diagnostic confidence.

[00:23:00] – Closing Remarks

A wrap-up of the episode and acknowledgment of the collaborative efforts that improve patient outcomes.

Notable Quote

"Try not to get intimidated as a primary practitioner. Use your stethoscope well and remember the fundamentals of cardiology—you can do a lot with a good physical exam and a thorough auscultation." Dr Weder.

Animal Imaging Veterinary Radiology Specialists

https://animalimaging.net/

(972) 869-2180

[email protected]

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/AnimalImaging/

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

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/animalimaging/?hl=en

This episode explores groundbreaking treatments for canine osteoarthritis, focusing on Synovetin OA, a radioactive medical device that can provide up to one year of targeted joint pain relief. The episode features two compelling cases: Axel, a working police dog who returned to duty, and Vern, a rescued bulldog who regained mobility. Dr. Amy Armentrout and Dr. Lon Hays discuss the benefits and applications of this innovative treatment, including a special interview with Vern's family.

Key Takeaways

• Osteoarthritis is a progressive, degenerative joint condition with no cure, but multiple management options
• Synovetin OA is a radioactive medical device injected directly into affected joints
• Treatment can last up to 12 months with minimal side effects
• Early intervention leads to better outcomes
• The treatment can be used in various joints and different sized animals
• Synovetin stays localized in the treated joint and doesn't affect other body systems
• Success stories include both working dogs and pets with severe mobility issues

Time Stamps

[00:00:00] - Introduction to Diagnostic Tales podcast

[00:01:00] - Disclaimer and introduction to osteoarthritis topic

[00:02:00] - Dr. Armentrout explains osteoarthritis basics

[00:05:00] - Introduction of first case: Axel the police dog [

00:07:00] - Explanation of Synovetin treatment

[00:15:00] - Discussion of side effects and contraindications

[00:20:00] - Interview with Vern's family begins

[00:26:00] - Veterinary practice tips and tricks

[00:28:00] – This episode is brought to you by Synovetin OA

Notable Quotes

"The sooner we can start treatment, just like with anything, the better those patients are going to respond long term." - Dr. Lon Hays

Connect with Lonestar Bulldog Club Rescue

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lsbcr

Web: https://dfwbulldogrescue.org/  

Connect with Animal Imaging - Veterinary Radiology Specialists

https://animalimaging.net/

(972) 869-2180

[email protected]

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/AnimalImaging/

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

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/animalimaging/?hl=en

This premiere episode of the "Diagnostic Tails Paw-dcast”, brought to you by Animal Imaging, features a discussion with Dr. Mike Pownall, Dr. Amy Armentrout, and Dr. Lon Hayes. They explore the critical role of advanced imaging technologies like nuclear scintigraphy, MRI, and CT scans in veterinary diagnostics. They dive into three case studies, including the use of I-131 therapy for hyperthyroid cats and gamma cameras to diagnose lameness in pets. The overarching goal of the podcast is to showcase the importance of accurate diagnostics in veterinary medicine. The episode concludes with the "Tail End" segment, which provides quick tips like on imaging techniques and positioning.

00:00 Introduction to Diagnostic Tails

00:38 Meet the Experts: Dr. Amy Armentrout and Dr. Lon Hayes

02:14 Roles and Responsibilities at Animal Imaging

03:38 Overview of Animal Imaging Services

05:37 Case Study: Hyperthyroid Cat - Elvis

11:25 Case Study: Hyperthyroid Cat - Pocket

16:30 Case Study: Bone Scan for a Boxer - Maxwell

18:34 Quick Tips: X-Ray Positioning

19:45 Conclusion and Contact Information

Connect with us!

Animal Imaging: https://animalimaging.net/feline-hyperthyroidism-treatment/

Veterinary Radiology Specialists https://animalimaging.net/

(972) 869-2180

[email protected]

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/AnimalImaging/

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

IG https://www.instagram.com/animalimaging/?hl=en

 Welcome to Diagnostic Tails, Animal Imaging's Uncovered Paw-dcast. Here, we're going to focus on real-life stories of pets and animals where Imaging saved the day, highlighting the importance of accurate diagnostics. Dive into different technologies like nuclear scintigraphy, MRIs, and CT scans for various animals.

Each episode offers insights into the world of veterinary imaging, sharing stories, breakthroughs and advancements, and imaging techniques.

Presented by Dr. Lon Hays and Dr. Amy Armentrout

Learn more: https://animalimaging.net/

[email protected]