Specialists in Companion Animal Neurology - Naples

07/30/2026

🐾 Advancing Wildlife Medicine Through Collaboration 🐾
Last week, the team at Specialists in Companion Animal Neurology (SCAN) had the privilege of assisting the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) with an important investigation involving a bobcat suspected of having Feline Leukomyelopathy (FLM).
FLM is a neurological disorder affecting some Florida panthers and bobcats that causes weakness and incoordination in the hind limbs, making it difficult for these incredible animals to walk. While the condition was first identified in 2018, its underlying cause remains unknown, and researchers continue working to better understand this devastating disease.
This particular case was especially significant because opportunities to evaluate a live animal actively showing clinical signs are extremely rare. SCAN performed advanced neurological diagnostics, including:
🧠 MRI
💉 Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Collection
⚡ Electromyography (EMG) and Nerve Conduction Studies

This is the first confirmed FLM case to undergo EMG and nerve conduction testing, providing valuable information that could help researchers better understand this disease and guide future conservation efforts.

We are honored to partner with FWC in supporting the health and conservation of some of Florida's most iconic and endangered species. Every case brings us one step closer to unlocking the mystery of FLM and protecting these remarkable cats for generations to come.

💙 Thank you to the dedicated veterinarians, biologists, wildlife officers, and researchers whose collaboration makes work like this possible.

Florida residents can support panther conservation efforts by purchasing a "Protect the Panther" license plate. If you see an injured, sick or dead panther, please contact the FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922) so that trained experts can respond.

07/24/2026

🐾 Puppy Spotlight: Meet MJ! 🤍

This adorable 10-week-old Bull Terrier, MJ, visited SCAN today for a BAER (Brainstem Auditory Evoked Response) hearing test.

BAER testing is an objective way to screen puppies for congenital deafness before they head to their new homes. This is especially important for pure white dogs, as they are significantly more susceptible to hearing loss than their colored counterparts. Studies show that approximately 10–20% of pure white Bull Terriers are born with partial or complete deafness. This occurs because the pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) needed for the normal development of the inner ear are absent in some white-coated dogs.

We're thrilled to share that MJ passed her BAER test with flying colors! 🎉👏

Early screening helps breeders and families make informed decisions and ensures every puppy gets the best possible start in life.

Congratulations, MJ! We know you have a bright—and now officially well-heard—future ahead of you! ❤️🐶

07/23/2026

🌟 Team Member Highlight: Courtney 🌟

Today we’re shining the spotlight on Courtney, one of the incredible team members who helps make SCAN special! 🐾

Courtney began her veterinary journey in 2018 as a kennel technician and groomer in general practice. Her passion for patient care led her to grow into the role of veterinary assistant, continuing to build her knowledge and skills every step of the way.

For the past 1½ years, Courtney has been an integral part of the SCAN team. She has become highly skilled in anesthesia and patient monitoring, MRI procedures, and surgical assisting—bringing dedication, compassion, and a willingness to learn to every case she supports.

Originally from Phoenix, Arizona 🌵, Courtney earned her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Florida before making her way to Naples. When she’s not caring for our patients, she enjoys spending time with her two cats, Cleo and Oliver. 🐱🐱

We are so grateful to have Courtney as part of our SCAN family. Her hard work, teamwork, and commitment to our patients and their families truly make a difference every day. 💙

Thank you, Courtney, for all that you do! 🐾

07/10/2026

💛 The sweetest surprise from one very special patient. 💛

Some patients leave paw prints that stay with us forever.

Recently, we said goodbye to our beloved patient, Snacks. Throughout his journey—from neck surgery and MUE to seizures and every challenge in between—he faced each day with courage, surrounded by a family who loved him beyond words.

This week, Snacks' mom, Michelle, surprised our team with a beautiful "Snack Box" filled with treats and the most heartfelt letter thanking Dr. Kelley, Lisa, our technicians, and every member of our neurology team for the care, compassion, and love shown to Snacks throughout his life.

Her words reminded us why we do what we do.

Veterinary medicine isn't just about diagnosing and treating disease. It's about building relationships, celebrating victories, supporting families through difficult decisions, and loving each patient as if they were our own.

Michelle wrote that saying goodbye to our team was one of the hardest parts of losing Snacks because we had become part of their family. There is no greater compliment than that.

Michelle, thank you for your incredible kindness and generosity. Your thoughtful gift means so much, but your words mean even more. We were honored to be part of Snacks' journey, and we will always remember his sweet face and joyful spirit.

Run free, sweet Snacks. 🌈🐾 You will forever have a place in our hearts.

❤️ Thank you to every family who entrusts us with the care of your beloved companions. It is a privilege we never take for granted.

07/03/2026

Happy Independence Day from SCAN!

As we celebrate the 4th of July with family, friends, and fireworks, we'd like to remind pet owners that this holiday can be stressful—and even dangerous—for many pets.

Loud noises and unexpected fireworks can trigger anxiety, panic, and in some cases neurological episodes in sensitive pets. To help keep your furry family members safe and comfortable:

🐾 Keep pets indoors in a secure, quiet area
🐾 Ensure ID tags and microchip information are up to date
🐾 Provide a safe space with familiar bedding and toys
🐾 Close windows and curtains to help reduce noise and flashes
🐾 Consult your veterinarian in advance if your pet has a history of anxiety, seizures, or noise sensitivity

At SCAN, we are grateful for the opportunity to care for your beloved companions throughout the year. We wish you and your pets a safe, happy, and healthy Independence Day!

❤️🤍💙 From all of us at SCAN Neurology

06/25/2026

Why Would a Cat or Dog Need an EMG and Nerve Conduction Study?
When a patient is experiencing weakness, difficulty walking, muscle loss, tremors, or even paralysis, the problem may not be coming from the brain or spinal cord alone. Sometimes the issue lies within the nerves or muscles themselves.
An Electromyography (EMG) and Nerve Conduction Study (NCS) are specialized diagnostic tests that help veterinary neurologists evaluate how well a cat's nerves and muscles are functioning.
🔹 EMG measures the electrical activity within muscles and can help identify muscle disorders or nerve damage affecting the muscles.
🔹 Nerve Conduction Studies assess how quickly and effectively electrical signals travel through the nerves, helping diagnose peripheral nerve diseases, nerve injuries, and certain neuromuscular conditions.
These tests provide valuable information that cannot be obtained through a physical examination alone. By pinpointing the source of a patient's weakness or mobility issues, we can develop a more accurate diagnosis, treatment plan, and prognosis.
At SCAN, advanced diagnostics like EMG and Nerve Conduction Studies help us uncover the cause of complex neurological conditions and give our patients the best opportunity for recovery and improved quality of life.
🐾💙

06/22/2026

🏒💙 Teamwork On and Off the Ice! 💙🏒

At SCAN, we know that building strong relationships outside the hospital helps us work even better together inside the hospital. Recently, our team took a break from caring for patients and enjoyed an exciting night cheering on the Florida Everblades during their playoff run!

From the fast-paced action on the ice to sharing laughs and making memories together, it was a fantastic evening for our team. The highlight of the night? A few lucky team members even got the chance to ride the Zamboni! 🚜❄️

We are grateful for opportunities like these that strengthen our team, boost morale, and remind us how much fun we can have together. A great team culture helps us provide the exceptional care our patients and clients deserve every day.

Way to go Everblades who ended up winning the Kelly Cup final! 🏒🥅

06/18/2026

Happy Veterinary Appreciation Day! 🩺🐾

Today, we celebrate our two incredible neurologists and the dedication, compassion, and expertise they bring to SCAN every day.

From diagnosing complex neurological conditions to performing life-changing surgeries, their commitment to improving the lives of pets and supporting the families who love them is truly inspiring. Their knowledge, skill, and unwavering care make a difference in the lives of countless patients throughout Southwest Florida.

We are grateful for their leadership, their passion for veterinary medicine, and the kindness they show to every patient who walks through our doors.

Please join us in thanking our amazing neurologists for all they do to help pets live happier, healthier lives.

❤️🐶🐱 Happy Veterinary Appreciation Day, Dr. Kelley and Dr. Pancotto! We are proud to have you as part of the SCAN family.

🐾💙

06/17/2026

💜 The Bond Between Patients, Families, and the SCAN Team 💜

One of the greatest privileges of veterinary medicine is the relationships we build along the way.

For four years, Ellie was a beloved patient at SCAN Neurology. Throughout her journey, Dr. Kelley and our team had the honor of caring for her and supporting her family through every milestone, challenge, and victory.

Recently, on the anniversary of Ellie's passing, her devoted dad stopped by with flowers for Dr. Kelley and a heartfelt note of gratitude. His touching words reminded us that the impact of compassionate care extends far beyond medicine.

In his note, he described our team as Ellie's "guardian angels" and shared how our care helped maintain her quality of life so she could continue being a cherished companion to her family. He wrote that SCAN felt like a second home, filled with warmth, comfort, and kindness.

Moments like these remind us why we do what we do. The relationships we build with our patients and their families become part of our hearts forever. While we never forget the pets we have loved and lost, we are deeply grateful for the trust families place in us during their journey.

Thank you, Ellie's family, for allowing us to be part of her story. She will always hold a special place in the SCAN family. 🐾💜

06/09/2026