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Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) in Dogs

TMS is an innovative treatment method used in exceptional cases of chronic or therapy-resistant anxiety in dogs. Through targeted magnetic pulses, specific brain areas are stimulated to positively influence the function of nerve cells.

The treatment is only considered after a thorough behavioural consultation and a SPECT brain scan, and only when other therapies have not produced sufficient results.

How does the process work?

• Step 1: SPECT scan
  A functional brain scan under general anaesthesia to determine whether TMS is appropriate.
• Step 2: TMS sessions
  If indicated, two sessions are scheduled, one month apart. These also require general anaesthesia. A low-stimulus environment is essential during the treatment period.

Safety and effectiveness

TMS has proven to be safe in dogs. The main risks are related to the anaesthesia. After the second session, 50% of dogs show clear improvement. The duration of the effect varies from dog to dog.

Conditions and estimated costs

TMS is considered when previous treatments have proven insufficient and/or when a brain scan reveals a disruption in brain activity patterns.
We understand that some owners prefer to avoid the use of medication. In such cases, TMS may offer a valuable alternative—provided that there are clear clinical indications. It is therefore only recommended after thorough evaluation, and only when other approaches have not been effective or when diagnostic imaging identifies specific abnormalities in brain function.

Indicative prices
• SPECT scan: €450–500 (incl. VAT, excl. anaesthesia)
• Two TMS sessions: approx. €500 (incl. VAT, excl. anaesthesia)
• Pre-anaesthetic bloodwork: approx. €80–100

Interested?

TMS is only considered after a behavioural consultation and brain scan.
For more information: gedragsdiergeneeskunde@ugent.be