Pet Orthopedic Surgery in Bellingham, WA

Pet orthopedic surgery treats injuries and conditions that affect the bones, joints, and ligaments. At our clinic in Bellingham, we care for dogs and cats with a gentle, low-stress approach. Our team explains every option, so you can choose the next step with confidence.

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Fawn French Bulldog wearing a green bandage on its front leg after orthopedic surgery, standing outside on a leash

What Is Pet Orthopedic Surgery?

Orthopedic pet surgery focuses on the skeleton and the tissues that support it. Pet soft tissue surgery involves the skin and organs, while orthopedic procedures address bones and joints. Dogs and cats may need orthopedic surgery after an injury or to treat a condition that limits movement.

If your pet needs orthopedic care, our veterinarians can examine your pet and review your options. We recommend a plan based on your pet’s age, size, lifestyle, and overall health. If your pet needs care beyond what we offer, we will tell you and help with next steps.

Reddish-brown shepherd mix walking slowly outdoors with its head lowered

Signs Your Pet May Need an Orthopedic Exam

Dogs and cats often mask pain, so small changes matter. Consider an exam if your pet shows any of these signs:

  • Limping or favoring one leg
  • Stiffness after rest or exercise
  • Trouble jumping, climbing stairs, or rising
  • Swelling around a joint
  • Sudden lameness after play or a fall

TPLO Surgery for Pets

A torn cranial cruciate ligament is a common cause of knee lameness in dogs. Tibial plateau leveling osteotomy, or TPLO, changes the angle of the tibia to stabilize the knee. TPLO surgery for pets is an established option for many dogs, though healing takes time and patience.

TPLO is not the right choice for every dog. After an exam and imaging, we discuss all reasonable options with you. Depending on your dog, that may include stem cell and platelet-rich plasma therapy, a service we’ve proudly offered since 2011.

Black and tan dog wearing a protective cone, lying happily on the grass

How We Diagnose and Plan

Every plan starts with a hands-on orthopedic exam and a conversation about your pet’s history. Pet X-rays and ultrasound help us see the injury clearly and plan the procedure with care. Before surgery, we may recommend pre-surgical lab work to confirm your pet is ready for anesthesia.
Black and white Border Collie leaping in midair to catch an orange flying disc in a grassy park

Comfort and Safety During Surgery

Your pet’s comfort and safety guide every step. We tailor anesthesia and pain control to each patient and monitor vital signs closely throughout the procedure. Afterward, we review aftercare instructions with you, including activity limits, pain relief, and incision care.

Post-Op Care, Recovery, and Rehabilitation

Recovery is just as important as the procedure itself. Many pets need restricted activity and follow-up visits, and we walk you through each stage. Our pet rehabilitation services include an underwater treadmill and therapeutic laser. These tools may help many pets rebuild strength and comfort after surgery.

Wirehaired brown dog resting on a cushioned mat while a caregiver gently strokes its back
Mountain Veterinary Hospital logo in blue and white

Gentle Orthopedic Care Close to Home

When a limp or injury slows your pet down, you want a team you can trust. Since 1986, our veterinary team has cared for dogs and cats across Whatcom County with patience and honesty. Our veterinarians bring decades of combined experience, and we always explain your options and what to expect. Orthopedic surgery is one of our veterinary services, and your pet can see familiar faces from exam to recovery.

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