Pet Orthopedic Surgery
At San Marin Animal Hospital, we perform advanced orthopedic pet surgery for dogs and cats in Novato, CA, and surrounding communities. From fracture repair to ligament stabilization procedures like TPLO surgery, our team focuses on restoring mobility, comfort, and quality of life.
What Is Pet Orthopedic Surgery?
Orthopedic pet surgery focuses on treating conditions that affect the bones, joints, ligaments, and musculoskeletal system. These procedures are often recommended for pets experiencing injuries, lameness, joint instability, or chronic mobility issues.
At San Marin Animal Hospital, we take an individualized approach to orthopedic care. Some cases can be managed in-house, while more advanced procedures are performed in collaboration with highly experienced mobile specialists who bring decades of expertise in complex orthopedic surgery.
What to Expect During Orthopedic Surgery
Orthopedic procedures require careful planning, precision, and close monitoring to support your pet’s safety and comfort.
Before surgery, we perform a thorough evaluation and may recommend diagnostic imaging and pre-anesthetic testing to assess your pet’s overall health and surgical readiness.
On the day of surgery:
- Your pet will be dropped off in the morning after fasting overnight
- General anesthesia is administered using advanced, modern protocols
- A Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) continuously monitors vital signs
- The procedure is performed either by our veterinary team or a specialized cat or dog orthopedic surgeon, depending on the complexity
Common orthopedic procedures may include:
- Fracture repair
- Ligament stabilization (including TPLO surgery)
- Joint and mobility-related surgical corrections
Most pets recover from anesthesia the same day and are ready to return home in the afternoon.
If additional monitoring or specialized post-operative care is needed, we coordinate with local 24-hour emergency facilities.
Recovery plans vary depending on the procedure, but typically include rest, restricted activity, pain management, follow-up evaluations, and integrative treatments such as acupuncture or laser therapy to support healing.
Before the day of your pet’s orthopedic procedure, we recommend completing our online Anesthesia/Surgical Consent Form to allow our veterinary team to proceed with care without delay.
Surgical Expertise You Can Rely On
At San Marin Animal Hospital, we are committed to providing safe, effective orthopedic care through a combination of in-house expertise and collaboration with experienced surgical specialists. Our veterinarians work closely with trusted mobile surgeons for complex procedures, ensuring your pet receives the highest level of care available.
We prioritize patient safety through advanced anesthesia, continuous monitoring, and individualized surgical planning. Our team also focuses on clear communication, helping you understand your pet’s condition, treatment options, and recovery process.
Why Orthopedic Surgery Is Important
Orthopedic issues can significantly impact your pet’s mobility, comfort, and overall quality of life. Surgical intervention is often the most effective way to restore function and relieve pain in cases of injury or structural damage.
Key benefits of orthopedic pet surgery include:
- Relief from chronic pain and discomfort
- Improved mobility and ability to walk or run
- Stabilization of injured joints or ligaments
- Proper healing of fractures and injuries
- Prevention of long-term complications or worsening conditions
Without appropriate treatment, orthopedic conditions can lead to ongoing pain, reduced activity, and decreased quality of life for your pet.
FAQs About Pet Orthopedic Surgery
How do I know if my pet needs orthopedic surgery?
Signs may include limping, difficulty standing or walking, decreased activity, or visible pain. A veterinary evaluation is needed to determine the best course of care.
What is TPLO surgery for dogs?
TPLO (Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy) is a common procedure used to treat cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) injuries in dogs, helping restore stability to the knee joint.
Is orthopedic surgery safe for pets?
While all surgery carries some risk, we take extensive precautions, including pre-anesthetic testing and continuous monitoring, to ensure safety.
Will my pet need rehabilitation after surgery?
Yes. Recovery often includes rest, gradual return to activity, and sometimes additional therapies to support healing and mobility.
Does my pet stay overnight?
Most pets go home the same day. If extended care is needed, we coordinate with local emergency facilities.
Restoring Comfort and Mobility with Expert Care
Orthopedic pet surgery plays a critical role in helping dogs and cats regain mobility and live more comfortable, active lives. At San Marin Animal Hospital, we combine experienced veterinary care with trusted surgical partnerships to provide thoughtful, individualized treatment for each patient. Our team is proud to support pets throughout the Novato area with reliable orthopedic solutions that prioritize safety, healing, and long-term well-being.