Orthopedics

For complex orthopedic procedures, we have access to some of the best board-certified specialists in the state, as well as an extensive referral network.

Female veterinarian examines a boxer dog's paw while sitting on an exam table

What are the most common orthopedic problems in pets?

Orthopedics is the part of veterinary medicine that relates to conditions affecting a pet’s skeletal symptom. Some of the most common orthopedic issues in pets are broken bones and fractures, cruciate ligament tears and other knee issues, hip dysplasia, and arthritis.

How do you diagnose orthopedic problems in pets?

Most orthopedic problems are discovered when an owner notices a mobility issue in their pet, though we do also screen for common issues during your regular wellness exams. Our veterinarians will assess your pet’s movements, examining their gait and checking the range of motion in their joints. Diagnostics could include x-rays, bloodwork, or a CT scan.

Pet Orthopedic Questions

You might be wondering…

Watch for sudden changes in your pet’s mobility such as limping, decreased range of motion, or reluctance to bear weight on a leg. You may also notice swelling in a specific location, or your pet could be licking and favoring the injured area, even if there is no obvious injury apparent on the skin.

Treatment for orthopedic issues in pets can range from therapeutic, non-surgical solutions, to assistive devices, or surgery. Your options for care will be dependent on your pet’s specific issue, age and health condition, as well as your budget for pet care. Some issues can be alleviated with a prescription diet or medication. Ligament tears, hip dysplasia, and broken bones typically require surgery.

Orthopedic surgery is often a completely curative treatment for bone or joint problems. It will improve your pet’s mobility, comfort, and reduce pain, as well as help prevent future complications that could arise from non-treatment of the root problem.

At Verdigris Pet Hospital and Emergency Care, we’re proud to partner with some of the best specialists in the state. If your pet’s problem or injury requires more complex surgical care we bring a board-certified surgeon in to perform your pet’s surgery directly at our hospital whenever possible. Occassionally, if schedules do not allow, we may need to refer you out to a specialist hospital in order to receive timely care for your pet’s condition.

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Modern Pet Care

With all new, top-of-the-line equipment and a gorgeous new facility, we’re modernizing the entire pet care experience. Our hybrid primary-and-emergency care model eliminates day-to-ER transfers, reducing stress on both pets and owners, while also allowing for consistency in treatment planning and standard of care.