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My dog has facial paralysis. Is an MRI needed if steroids are working?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 59 lbs

my dog has facial paralysis(drop jaw) and the vet is recommending an MRI, but she also says that she's positive it isn't a mass or a tumor. He is currently on steroids and is showing improvement, so my question is; Is the MRI necessary? or should we just continue the steroid treatment?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 17th, 2017

If you want to get a definitive diagnosis and your vet thinks the MRI would give more information than it would be worth it to have the test done. However, if it is not going to change treatment in any way and your dog seems to be improving on the steroids than you might want to hold off on having the test done. Discuss with your vet as he/she know the complete medical history and should be able to give you the best advise.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    While steroids can be used long term in particular cases, there can be serious side effects to this, so it is important to have this MRI done to diagnose the cause of the facial paralysis. That's because there may be a better, and safe, drug that can be used to treat Caesar's symptoms based on the diagnosis. I would recommend having the MRI done.

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