Bianca's MRI was $1500 and her surgery was $3500 (I think? Geez, it's only been a few months, I've got to dig up the bill!). I was told to expect up to $4000 but again she did not have complications, and did not get a shunt, both of which would have upped the price. I did go to a private neurologist for both. However, I have Pet PLan which covered a good 80%, and did not charge me a second deductible (one $100 deductible for the MRI, but they considered the surgery part and parcel of the same claim). I thought that was very fair. In case you haven't taken your pup to the vet with that as a possibility, you might consider opting for insurance first--it then won't be considered 'pre-existing' and you might even get it paid for. Just a thought.