What to Expect from Pet Orthopedic Surgery

When your beloved dog or cat suddenly starts limping, refuses to jump, or shows signs of pain after an accident, it can be a stressful experience for any pet owner. Understanding what comes next is important, especially when your veterinarian recommends orthopedic surgery to restore your pet’s mobility and comfort. At Townsgate Pet Hospital, our team of veterinarians in Westlake Village, CA is dedicated to guiding you through each step of the process, from the initial consultation to advanced diagnostics and the creation of a personalized recovery plan. Whether you are searching for comprehensive pet orthopedic surgery in Westlake Village or simply want to know what to expect, this guide will help you feel more prepared.

Throughout this blog, we will cover how to recognize when your pet may need orthopedic intervention, the causes behind orthopedic issues, the latest treatment options available at our hospital, and what you can do at home to support your pet’s recovery. We will also discuss the role of veterinary digital radiology in diagnosing orthopedic conditions and why timely care is essential. At Townsgate Pet Hospital, we value the ongoing relationship we build with pet owners in Westlake Village and surrounding communities, and we are here to provide quality veterinary services near you. If you are concerned about your pet's mobility or need an appointment, our experienced veterinary team is ready to help.

Recognizing Orthopedic Problems in Pets

Many pet owners first notice an issue when their dog or cat begins to limp, favor one leg, hesitate to climb stairs, or avoids jumping onto furniture. Key symptoms of orthopedic problems include stiffness after rest, difficulty rising or lying down, visible swelling of a limb or joint, and pain when touched or during movement. In some cases, you may hear a clicking noise in your pet’s joint, witness a significant loss of muscle mass on one side, or notice that your pet is less active than usual.

Other warning signs to watch for are a sudden decrease in playfulness, reluctance to go on walks, persistent licking at a specific area, or vocalizing in pain during activity. For more severe injuries, such as fractures or dislocations, your pet may refuse to bear weight on a limb entirely or may carry the leg off the ground. Prompt recognition of these symptoms is essential, as early intervention can lead to better outcomes and a quicker return to normal activity.

If you are unsure whether your pet’s symptoms are related to an orthopedic condition, the safest option is to schedule an appointment with a veterinarian near you. Our team at Townsgate Pet Hospital can provide advanced orthopedic surgery and diagnostics to determine the underlying cause and recommend the best course of action.

Understanding the Causes of Orthopedic Conditions in Pets

Orthopedic problems in pets can arise from a variety of causes, including traumatic injuries, congenital abnormalities, degenerative joint diseases, or even repetitive strain from daily activity. Common reasons for pet orthopedic surgery in Westlake Village include torn ligaments, such as an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury, hip dysplasia, patellar luxation (kneecap dislocation), and bone fractures from car accidents or falls.

Certain breeds are more prone to orthopedic conditions; for example, large dogs may be genetically predisposed to hip dysplasia, while smaller breeds may experience patellar luxation. Aging is another significant factor, as cartilage within the joints can wear down over time, leading to arthritis and decreased mobility. Sudden traumas, such as being hit by a car or landing awkwardly after a jump, can result in bone fractures or joint dislocations, requiring urgent attention.

In some cases, less obvious factors contribute to orthopedic issues, such as obesity, which places increased stress on joints, or underlying medical conditions affecting bone health. Our veterinary team uses a combination of physical examination, patient history, and state-of-the-art veterinary digital radiology to accurately diagnose the cause of your pet’s discomfort and determine if surgery is the most appropriate solution.

What to Expect: The Orthopedic Surgery Process at Townsgate Pet Hospital

Initial Consultation and Diagnostic Imaging

The first step in any orthopedic case is a thorough consultation with our veterinarians. During your visit to our Westlake Village clinic, we will discuss your pet’s medical history, review the symptoms you have observed, and perform a detailed physical examination. Advanced imaging, such as veterinary digital radiology, is often recommended to visualize bones, joints, and soft tissue structures. This technology provides detailed, high-resolution images that help us accurately identify fractures, ligament tears, dislocations, or other abnormalities.

Customized Surgical Planning

Once a diagnosis is confirmed, our veterinary professionals work with you to develop a customized surgical plan tailored to your pet’s specific needs. The surgical approach may vary depending on the condition; for example, cruciate ligament injuries typically require specialized ACL repair surgery, while pets with severe hip dysplasia may benefit from FHO (Femoral Head Ostectomy) surgery or hip dysplasia surgery. For traumatic injuries like fractures or dislocations, our team offers expert fractures & dislocations surgery.

Before surgery, we conduct comprehensive pre-anesthetic bloodwork and health assessments to ensure your pet is a suitable candidate and to minimize risks. We will explain the procedure, expected outcomes, and answer any questions you may have, so you feel confident and informed every step of the way.

The Day of Surgery

On the day of your pet’s orthopedic surgery in Westlake Village, you will be guided through check-in and pre-surgical protocols. Your pet will receive individualized anesthesia and advanced pain management throughout the procedure. Our surgical suite is equipped with modern monitoring equipment, ensuring your pet’s safety and comfort at all times. After surgery, your pet will be closely observed as they recover from anesthesia, and our veterinary professionals will provide updates on their status and expected recovery timeline.

Post-Operative Care and Recovery

After orthopedic surgery, the recovery phase is a critical component of successful healing. Our veterinarians create a personalized rehabilitation plan that may include restricted activity, gradual reintroduction of movement, pain medication, and, in some cases, physical therapy exercises you can perform at home. Most pets require a period of crate rest or confinement to limit excessive movement and allow surgical repairs to heal properly.

We schedule follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress, remove sutures if necessary, and repeat veterinary digital radiology imaging to confirm proper bone or joint alignment. Your compliance with post-operative instructions, such as administering medications and limiting activity, is essential for a smooth recovery. Many pets regain full mobility and return to their favorite activities with the right care and support.

Home Care and Prevention Tips for Pet Owners

Supporting your pet’s recovery after orthopedic surgery at home is an important responsibility. Key steps include providing a quiet, comfortable area for rest, preventing jumping or rough play, and using ramps or steps to minimize strain on healing joints. Administer all prescribed medications exactly as directed, and monitor for any changes in appetite, behavior, or incision site appearance.

Weight management plays a significant role in both recovery and the prevention of future orthopedic problems. Feeding a balanced diet and maintaining an ideal body condition can reduce stress on joints and lower the risk of injury. Regular but controlled exercise, such as gentle leash walks or supervised play, helps maintain muscle strength and joint flexibility as your pet heals.

Preventing orthopedic issues in the first place involves providing safe environments, avoiding slippery floors, and supervising high-energy activities. Annual wellness exams at Townsgate Pet Hospital give our veterinarians the opportunity to assess your pet’s musculoskeletal health and detect early signs of joint disease or injury. If you are searching for a quality vet near me for ongoing support, our team is ready to help with preventive care programs and nutritional counseling tailored to your pet’s needs.

When to Seek Veterinary Care for Orthopedic Issues

Knowing when to seek professional help can make a significant difference in your pet’s outcome. Immediate veterinary attention is recommended if your pet cannot bear weight on a limb, shows severe pain, experiences sudden swelling, or has suffered a traumatic injury such as a fall or car accident. Delaying care in these situations can result in complications or prolonged recovery.

If you notice gradual changes such as persistent limping, reluctance to exercise, or visible joint deformity, schedule an appointment with our veterinarians for a comprehensive evaluation. Early intervention can prevent minor issues from becoming severe, and our advanced diagnostic tools ensure accurate assessment. For pet orthopedic surgery in Westlake Village and surrounding communities, Townsgate Pet Hospital is here to provide expert care and peace of mind.

Your Partner in Pet Orthopedic Surgery and Recovery

Navigating orthopedic problems in pets can be overwhelming, but you do not have to go through it alone. At Townsgate Pet Hospital, our compassionate veterinary team is committed to delivering advanced pet orthopedic surgery in Westlake Village, personalized rehabilitation, and ongoing support to help your pet live a happy, active life. If you have noticed changes in your pet’s mobility or are searching for the best vet near me to address orthopedic concerns, we encourage you to reach out.

To schedule an appointment or learn more about our orthopedic surgery services, call our hospital at (805) 230-1999 or visit us in Westlake Village, CA. Our veterinary professionals are here to answer your questions, guide you through every step of your pet’s treatment, and provide the quality veterinary services near you that your family deserves. Your pet’s health and comfort are always our top priority.

This blog is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you have concerns about your pet’s health, please consult with your veterinarian promptly.