What behavioral changes indicate my pet may have neck or back pain?

When it comes to neck or back pain, pets might show subtle signs like: Avoiding stairs Hesitating to jump Walking stiffly or seeming “off” Not wanting to be picked up Hiding or being less social These behaviors are often mistaken for “slowing down” or aging — but they can be signs of spinal discomfort or neurological pain.

What signs should I look for that could mean my pet needs a neurology exam?

Common signs include seizures, weakness, difficulty walking, head tilt, facial paralysis, balance issues, neck/back pain, and changes in behavior. If your pet exhibits these symptoms, consult your primary veterinarian for a possible neurology referral.

Is pet head tilt and disorientation a sign my pet might need neurological care?

Yes. A sudden head tilt, disorientation, or trouble with balance may indicate a neurological issue affecting the brain or inner ear. These signs should be evaluated promptly to determine the underlying cause and begin appropriate care.

Are dog tremors and uncoordinated walking a sign my pet might need neurological care?

Yes. Tremors, stumbling, or uncoordinated movement can point to a neurological condition that requires further evaluation. Early diagnosis can make a meaningful difference in treatment options and your pet’s quality of life.

Neurology & Neurosurgery

Name: Garden State Veterinary Services Woodbridge
Address: 1200 Rt. 9 N, Woodbridge, NJ, 07095, US
Telephone: 732-283-3535

At Garden State Veterinary Services Woodbridge

With best-in-class medicine, advanced technology, and an expert team, we’re fully prepared to provide the complete, compassionate care your pet needs.

732-283-3535

Garden State Veterinary Services Woodbridge

Group of six dogs of different breeds and sizes sitting together against a gray background.

You've come to the right place

We're open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Call us whenever the need arises - not just during regular business hours.

Specialized care when they need it most

Our veterinary neurology and neurosurgery team helps pets who experience:

pain in their spine or neck
paralysis or weakness
seizures
balance or coordination problems
unexplained behavioral changes

Getting your pet on the path to wellness is our #1 goal.

With years of experience and a range of advanced procedures and treatment options, we'll focus on restoring your pet's quality of life and your peace of mind.

We're here for your pet and your family

Schedule a visit. We’re here to help.

We want you and your pet to have the best experience possible. If you need us to reach out to your primary care veterinarian for your records, we’re happy to do so.

732-283-3535

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Conditions

If your pet is experiencing any of these conditions, our board-certified specialists and team have the expertise to make a difference.

Atlantoaxial subluxation
Brain / spinal trauma
Brain / spinal tumors
Caudal occipital malformation syndrome (COMS)
Cerebrovascular accidents (strokes)
Cervical instability
Cervical spondylomyelopathy (CSM)
Chiari-like malformation and syringomyelia
Cognitive dysfunction
Congenital spine malformations
Degenerative myelopathy (DM)
Disc herniation and other lumbosacral disorders
Discospondylitis
Encephalitis
Epilepsy and other seizure disorders
Facial paralysis
Granulomatous meningoencephalomyelitis (GME)
Hydrocephalus
Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)
Limb paresis or paralysis
Lumbosacral disease
Meningitis
Meningoencephalomyelitis of unknown etiology (MUE)
Myelitis
Myositis and masticatory muscle myositis (MMM)
Neurologic toxicities
Neuromuscular disease (such as myasthenia gravis)
Seizures
Spinal cysts (subarachnoid diverticula)
Strokes (fibrocartilaginous emboli and more)
Vertebral column luxation and fractures
Vestibular dysfunction or disease (balance problems)
Wobblers disease

Diagnostics

Comprehensive diagnostic testing allows us to gain a complete understanding of your pet’s condition.

CT scan
Electrodiagnostic testing
MRI
Nerve and muscle biopsy
Spinal tap (CSF analysis)
X-ray

Treatments

Our approach to treatment prioritizes improving your pet’s quality of life through personalized, compassionate care.

Brain surgery (tumor removal/ biopsy, hydrocephalus shunt placement, and more)
Spine surgery (hemilaminectomy, ventral slots, lumbosacral, tumor removal, subarachnoid diverticula removal, and more)
Medical management
Rehabilitation exercise guidance

Prepare for your visit

01Call us directly to schedule an appointment or register your pet before you arrive.
02We’ll gather your pet’s records and collaborate with your primary veterinarian.
03Note your pet's medications, food type, eating habits, and symptoms.

During your visit

01We’ll examine your pet and talk through any additional tests, if needed.
02We’ll go over your pet’s diagnosis in detail together and answer all of your questions.
03You’ll receive a full treatment plan and all the guidance you need before you leave.

Ongoing care

01Follow your pet’s treatment plan and monitor their progress and symptoms at home.
02You know your pet best. If anything seems amiss or you have any concerns, give us a call — we’re here for you 24 hours a day.
03Our team will continue to partner with your primary veterinarian as a part of your pet’s ongoing care.

Our neurology & neurosurgery team

When your pet needs care, our highly trained specialists are here to help.

Frequently asked questions

Understand more about your pet’s condition and treatment options.

Fast track your visit

Save time by filling out our client registration form before your visit. (Not required.)

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Our partner hospitals

Neurology & Neurosurgery

At Garden State Veterinary Services Woodbridge

Garden State Veterinary Services Woodbridge

Garden State Veterinary Services Woodbridge

You've come to the right place

Always available

On-site diagnostics

Expert oversight

Specialty care

Specialized care when they need it most

Our veterinary neurology and neurosurgery team helps pets who experience:

We're here for your pet and your family

Schedule a visit. We’re here to help.

Conditions

Diagnostics

Treatments

Prepare for your visit

During your visit

Ongoing care

Our neurology & neurosurgery team

Jordan Schachar, DVM, Diplomate ACVIM (Neurology)

Christian Woelfel, DVM, Diplomate ACVIM (Neurology)

Frequently asked questions

What behavioral changes indicate my pet may have neck or back pain?

What signs should I look for that could mean my pet needs a neurology exam?

Is pet head tilt and disorientation a sign my pet might need neurological care?

Are dog tremors and uncoordinated walking a sign my pet might need neurological care?

Fast track your visit

Our partner hospitals

Garden State Veterinary Specialists Eatontown

Greater Staten Island Veterinary Services

GSVS Veterinary Emergency Care Morristown

GSVS Veterinary Emergency Care East Brunswick

GSVS Veterinary Emergency Care Toms River