So sorry - I wrote a long reply to this yesterday but have been having Internet connection problems and it lost it :x
So pleased you are finally getting vet support - they are very like a GP/doctor and can't possibly be experts in everything. Something like this really needs a referral to a specialist - you can ask a vet for a referral and they should do that - remember you are the client. For some years now I have treated by vets as partners in the care of my dogs - respectfully of course! Sadly I recently had to change vets but now have a really good relationship with the new practice. If a vet is not prepared to listen or be prepared to read information you take in for them and listen to your concerns and suggestions, then they are not the best partner and as you have had to do in this case, you are best finding a new vet.
Glasgow are absolutely brilliant, the neurologist I saw was Maria Ortego but you can't request to see a specific person, it depends who is available. Maria was very thorough, and had a lovely bedside manner with Kayleigh. When we went back in for the results, my friend came with me - she had not seen an MRI scan like this before, and as Jane expressed interest, Maria took the time to explain it to her, and to compare it with that of an [anonymous] dog sadly diagnosed with severe SM a few days before, pointing out the syrinxes etc.
I was really impressed with all the staff, the cleaners kindly asked us if Kayleigh was ok with the vacuum before switching it on in our vicinity
[we were there after hours as Maria had been called in for emergency surgery]
Maria has very kindly been answering my questions in e-mails too!
The new hospital is fantastic, it has been very thoughtfully designed to give the most welcoming atmosphere with minimal stress to the animals.
I wish I was a bit nearer as I would meet you there
please try to take someone with you, it really helps to have someone else to listen and to give support.
There is a cafe area upstairs, with very reasonably priced drink and snack machines [sandwiches, yogurts, even vegan date and nut bars which were yummy!] - and the best coffee I've ever had from a coffee machine!
Often the MRI scan is the day following the consultation, so be prepared for that. The insurance company should be able to do a preauthorisation for you, takes about 48 hours to get a telephone confirmation [they will need to contact your vet], and then a written confirmation. Glasgow ask you to take two insurance claim forms - you have to pay for the consult at the time, but they will claim direct for the MRI if you take in your valid policy.
I do hope the appointment with the other vet goes well, print off the relevant info from
http://sm.cavaliertalk.com/, also it helps to take in a history and symptoms you are seeing [you should be able to get your old vets to print off a clinical history, if they won't do this, ask them to fax it through to the new vet]
You will be in our thoughts and we hope for good news