Yes. While some conditions are degenerative and appear with age, many orthopedic problems can result from sudden injuries during play or accidents. Furthermore, some pets have a genetic predisposition to conditions like hip dysplasia or patellar luxation that can appear even in young animals.
Orthopedic Surgery
Orthopedic Surgery
Signs Your Pet Needs Surgery
Like humans, pets can experience orthopedic problems, especially if they are active. If they are not active, it may be because your pet is in pain or injured and unable to communicate. Orthopedic issues in pets include joint pain, osteoarthritis, muscle injuries, and bone issues. They usually occur due to injuries or accidents, but they can also be due to a genetic predisposition to the disorder.
When your pet continues to show signs of pain after an injury, it should not be ignored. Their initial injury could result in underlying issues that you, as their owner, cannot diagnose on your own and will need the advice of a veterinarian. Our team of veterinary professionals at Blue Lake Animal Hospital is prepared to help you and your pet with any orthopedic problems. While many orthopedic issues can be easily remedied using medications and joint supplements, there are certain cases where only surgical intervention can help. At Blue Lake Animal Hospital, we are experienced in orthopedic surgery and ensure our patients are well taken care of.
Various orthopedic problems can require surgical operations on pets. We recommend arranging an appointment with your vet as soon as you notice signs of orthopedic issues in your companion. Look for apparent symptoms such as difficulty jumping, reduced movements, swaying gaits, limping, and obvious pain.
FAQs About Orthopedic Surgery for Pets in Michigan
How does an ACL tear happen?
An ACL tear is one of the most common orthopedic injuries. It can happen from a sudden trauma, like a twisting motion during running, or it can be a degenerative process where the ligament weakens over time. In either case, it results in an unstable and painful knee joint that can require surgical repair.
I think my pet is in pain, but I’m not sure. What should I do?
Pets are often masters at hiding pain, so if you suspect something is wrong, it is crucial to schedule an exam. Let us help you find a safe and effective solution for your pet.
How do you determine if my pet needs surgery versus just medication?
Our first step is a thorough exam and diagnostic imaging, like X-rays. For some conditions, medication and joint supplements can successfully manage pain and improve quality of life. However, when the structural problem is severe or causes significant pain, or if medications fail to provide relief, surgery may become the best and most effective option to restore function.
What kind of post-operative care will my pet need from me at home?
As a vital member of your pet’s recovery team, your role will likely include administering prescribed medications, monitoring the incision for any signs of infection, and managing their activity levels. We will give you clear instructions so you feel confident in these and any other needed tasks.
Orthopedic Issues in Pets That May Require Surgery
If you believe your pet may be dealing with problems that may need veterinary attention, please contact our office as soon as possible to schedule an appointment at our clinic.
Below are a few common conditions that may require orthopedic surgery:
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is a genetic condition that affects your pet’s hips. It’s a common condition that we often see in large-breed dogs, but even cats and small dogs can have hip dysplasia. This condition may be managed using anti-inflammatory medications and joint supplements. However, a surgical operation may be necessary in cases where medications fail to restore your pet’s quality of life.
Cruciate Ligament Tear/ACL Tear
This is a condition that affects your pet’s anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), which keeps the knee functioning normally. This can occur due to an injury, trauma, or genetic factors. Rest and medications can help alleviate the pain. However, a torn ACL commonly requires surgical repair. Surgery helps to stabilize the knee immediately and reduce pain and arthritis that may develop in your pet’s knees.
Patellar Luxation
The patella in your pet is the same as your kneecap. When your pet’s patella has issues, it slips out of the groove responsible for holding it in place. This usually occurs if the groove is too shallow. In pets, patellar luxation or knee joint dislocation has varying degrees of severity. We see this issue more commonly in small-breed dogs, but it can occur in large-breed dogs as well. In severe cases, we often recommend surgical repair.
Contact Us at
blue lake
animal hospital
At Blue Lake Animal Hospital, we are dedicated to treating any orthopedic injuries your pet may have. Bring your pet to Blue Lake Animal Hospital for an orthopedic exam and overall wellness check. Annual checkups help us monitor your pet and find potential health issues earlier. At Blue Lake Animal Hospital, we want your pet to be healthy.
What We Do
Caledonia Veterinary Services
Preventive Medicine
Prevention is key to supporting your pet’s ongoing health. We devise an individualized strategy to keep your pet healthy and happy.
Surgical Services
We perform standard and specialized surgeries to address your pet’s health concerns, including spays, tumor removal, orthopedic surgeries, and more.
Vaccinations
Vaccinations are an important part of preventing communicable diseases. Keep your pet up-to-date on their vaccinations right at our office.
Dental Care
Dental health is essential to your pet’s overall wellness. Our dental services cover all of your pet’s oral health needs, from tooth extraction to cleaning.
Special Care for Pocket Pets
We understand the unique needs of pocket pets like hamsters, guinea pigs, and rabbits. Our team has the
expertise to provide the best care for these small companions, ensuring their health and happiness.
Reviews
Happy Customers
I cannot say enough good things about this veterinary clinic! They were able to squeeze my cat in on very short notice when he suddenly started having urinary accidents, and I was so stressed trying to figure out what was...
Kristen G.
Love this place for our American Bully. Dr. Heather and her team were absolutely amazing. We drove almost two hours to take our girl to see them numerous times. They performed reverse progesterone testing, and they also did the C-section...
A. W.
Amazing vets and very friendly staff. I have been bringing my animals here for years and wouldn't go anywhere else.
S. B.
Such an amazing place. I brought one of my pet rats here around a few years ago for an external tumor removal. They did such a great job and were very informative and caring. Fast forward to now and I...
B. C.
My breeder suggested Dr. Will and Dr. Heather. They have been amazing! I knew Louie was in great hands once I met them❤️
J. R.
I have absolutely enjoyed bringing my fur baby here. The staff is knowledgeable and friendly and wait times to get in are not ridiculous.
R. V.
We’re empty nesters and our dogs have filled the void, however I have found that my new children needed a higher level of care. This place cares, and very helpful when “Mom and I” are freaking out. We have been...
J. F.
Dr. Macey and staff are always kind and knowledgeable.
N. R.
We have been with Blue Lake Animal Hospital for years. Great, knowledgeable, and compassionate veterinarians whose priority is the welfare of your pet. Their staff is fantastic as well, from reception to assistants.
S. H.
Absolutely wonderful staff. Very caring and always try to fit us in when needed. Dr. Heather is so knowledgeable, kind and helpful. We are incredibly thankful their pricing is reasonable which makes regular maintenance much easier, especially right now.
K. G.
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