Advanced Veterinary MRI Imaging for KwaZulu-Natal
The only dedicated small animal MRI facility in
KwaZulu-Natal, giving referring veterinarians local access to advanced diagnostic imaging, specialist-reported findings, and faster, clearer clinical decision-making.
A Veterinary Partnership Expanding MRI Access In KZN
KZN Vets MRI was established through a partnership of veterinary practices and veterinarians with a shared goal: improving access to veterinary MRI and advanced imaging, and opening the door to treatment options that have not previously been widely available in the province.
We provide MRI imaging for dogs, cats and other small animals, supporting the diagnosis of neurological, orthopaedic and soft tissue conditions. This gives referring veterinarians access to accurate, specialist-reported scans that support clinical decision-making and case management, particularly in complex cases where clarity matters most.
Our focus is on delivering accessible MRI services that support better patient outcomes. We work closely with referring veterinarians to ensure timely access to imaging, efficient reporting, and clear guidance on next steps in a patient’s care.
Advanced Veterinary MRI
KZN Vets MRI is equipped with the Magnifico Vet MRI system by Esaote, a veterinary-specific MRI platform designed to deliver exceptional diagnostic image quality while supporting efficient workflow and patient care.
- Veterinary-specific imaging protocols
- High-quality diagnostic imaging
- Advanced neurological imaging
- Orthopaedic and musculoskeletal imaging
- Advanced soft tissue, nasal and aural imaging
- Post-surgical imaging with metal artefact reduction technology (MAR)
- Dedicated animal positioning systems and coils for a wide range of patient sizes
- Onsite imaging and emergency imaging making scans safer and more cost effective
MRI Reporting
Every MRI study can be supported by formal radiologist interpretation through our association with Veterinary Imaging Service (VIS), provided by Dr Christelle Le Roux or Veheri if VIS is not available. This gives referring veterinarians a specialist-reported set of findings to guide diagnosis and treatment planning, in addition to the scan images themselves.
We strongly recommend a formal radiologist report for every case. While referring veterinarians may choose to review scans independently, specialist reporting is recommended as standard practice to support an accurate diagnosis and the best possible outcome for the patient.
Reporting through VIS is charged at R1,800.00 for the first region/site scanned and R600.00 for each additional region/site. If VIS is unavailable, reporting can be provided through Verheri at R3,105.00 for the first region/site scanned and R1,440.95 for each additional region/site.
MRI reports are typically provided within 48 hours of the scan. Urgent or complex cases may be prioritised, please flag any time-sensitive cases when submitting your referral.
Anaesthesia
Anaesthesia is required for all MRI studies to ensure patient safety and optimal image quality. Patients are assessed before the scan, and higher-risk cases may require a specialist or resident consultation before proceeding. This will be discussed with the referring veterinarian during the booking process.
A pre-MRI consult with Hilton Veterinary Hospital staff is required in any of the following situations:
- The referring veterinarian has requested a consult;
- The site(s) to be scanned have not yet been established; or
- The patient is assessed as an ASA Class 3, 4 or 5 anaesthetic risk.
If the referring veterinarian has clearly identified the required MRI site(s) and confirmed, through clinical exam and blood tests, that the patient is an ASA Class 1 or 2 anaesthetic risk, no consult is required – provided this information is clearly communicated to Hilton Veterinary Hospital staff. In all other cases, a pre-MRI consult is essential and must be marked as such on the referral form.
Conditions Commonly
Investigated with MRI
MRI is a valuable diagnostic tool across a wide range of neurological, orthopaedic and soft tissue presentations. Common referral scenarios include:
Referring Veterinarians & Pet Owners
Whether you’re referring a patient or looking for information about
MRI for your pet, find the relevant information below.
Please complete the MRI referral form to submit a patient referral and arrange an MRI booking.
Please note: a pre-MRI consultation with Hilton Veterinary Hospital is required if the MRI site is not yet established, or if the patient is an ASA Class 3-5 anaesthetic risk. See full guidance on the referral form.
MRI examinations require a referral from your veterinarian. If you believe your pet may benefit from MRI imaging, please speak to your veterinary practice, who can discuss whether a referral is appropriate.
If you don’t currently have a vet, or your vet hasn’t yet recommended an MRI, please contact KZN Vets MRI directly and our team will direct you toward a veterinarian for an initial consultation before any referral for imaging is arranged.
Transport to KZN Vets MRI can be arranged in one of three ways:
- The referring veterinary practice transports the patient
- The pet owner transports the patient directly
- Transport in an ambulance is available from Durban and surrounding areas through Meditech Emergency Response
Coordinating transport, including any ambulance booking, remains the responsibility of the referring veterinarian or pet owner. Estimated transport costs are included on the referral form so that the full expected cost of the MRI can be communicated to the pet owner upfront; this is for cost transparency only and does not constitute a transport booking made on your behalf.
KZN Vets MRI operates Monday to Friday, 7:30am to 4:00pm. Emergency scans booked outside of these hours are subject to an after-hours surcharge.
Pricing
Partner practices receive preferential MRI rates through their participation in the KZN Vets MRI initiative. Referrals from non-partner practices are warmly welcomed.
Partner Practice
Inc. Vat
Consultation
R2,189.43
After Hours Surcharge
R2.300.00
Brain
R11,500.00
Spine (per region)
R11,500.00
Joint
R5,750.00
Abdomen
R11,500.00
Extra site
R2,875.00
Repeat Scan
R5,750.00
Contrast
R1,380.00
VIS 1st site
R1,800.00
VIS 2nd and subsequent sites, per site
R600.00
Verheri (used as an alternative if VIS is not available)
Verheri 1st site (alt. if VIS unavailable)
R3,105.00
Verheri 2nd and subsequent sites, per site
R1,440.95
Meditech Ambulance (no VAT on ambulance fees)
Meditech Ambulance –
One Way (no VAT)
R3,000.00
Meditech Ambulance – Round Trip (no VAT)
R6,000.00
Non-Partner Practice
Inc. Vat
Consultation
R2,189.43
After Hours Surcharge
R2,300.00
Brain
R13,800.00
Spine (per region)
R13,800.00
Joint
R6,900.00
Abdomen
R13,800.00
Extra site
R3,455.00
Repeat Scan
R5,750.00
Contrast
R1,380.00
VIS 1st site
R1,800.00
VIS 2nd and subsequent sites, per site
R600.00
Verheri (used as an alternative if VIS is not available)
Verheri 1st site (alt. if VIS unavailable)
R3,105.00
Verheri 2nd and subsequent sites, per site
R1,440.95
Meditech Ambulance (no VAT on ambulance fees)
Meditech Ambulance –
One way (no VAT)
R3,000.00
Meditech Ambulance –
Round Trip (no VAT)
R6,000.00
*All prices include VAT.
Become a Partner Practice
Not yet a KZN Vets MRI partner practice? Partner practices benefit from investment into a veterinary dedicated MRI unit, preferential MRI rates, streamlined referral processing, and priority access to booking, helping you offer your clients faster, more affordable access to advanced imaging.
If your practice would like to discuss becoming a KZN Vets MRI partner, complete the short form below and our partnerships team will be in touch.
Partner Veterinarians &
Veterinary Practices
Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital
Dr Emma Brown, Dr Carra Walters
Glenashley Veterinary Hospital
Dr Judy Ratner, Dr Mark McReynolds
Equine-Librium Veterinary Physiotherapy Clinic
Ronel van der Sijde
Hilton Veterinary Hospital
Dr Sara Boyd, Dr Sujatha Harrylal, Dr Helen Antelme, Dr Sarah Halgreen, Dr Martin de Scally
Vet Imaging Services
Dr Christelle Le Roux
Ballito Veterinary Hospital
Dr Louis Gouws
Midlands Veterinary Hospital
Dr Doug Hathorn, Dr De Simon Dommett, Dr Allen Still
Veterinary Anaesthesia Analgesia & Critical Services
Dr Kenneth Joubert
Start an MRI Referral
Select the appropriate referral form below to begin. Then enter the referral details, scan selections, anaesthesia class, and owner and patient information to calculate the payable amount.
If you are not sure which form to choose, or whether a consult is required, please get in touch.