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Our Process

Our assessment will begin the moment we arrive to evaluate your pet’s gait and coordination at our greeting. Pet parents often expect their dog or cat to cry if they're in pain. However, pets experiencing orthopedic pain often hide their weakness and pain and may only exhibit mild lameness, hesitation to rise or lie down, difficulty navigating stairs, and/or increased reactivity around a particularly painful area. Our veterinarians will ask you about these observations. In addition, we will evaluate the range of motion in your pet’s joints and palpate their vertebrae to check for back pain.  

Orthopedic Care for Older Dogs and Cats

Older animals often experience a decline in orthopedic health, so it is important to create a treatment plan that addresses your pet’s mobility and quality of life. Our veterinarians will make appropriate recommendations, including pain management, based on our examination.  We are committed to the quality of life of your pet and ensuring that you enjoy many happy years together. If you have concerns about your pet’s quality of life, we can also provide Quality-of-Life Consultation and guidance as well as end-of-life care. We may also make recommendations for further testing or refer you to a board-certified pet orthopedic specialist (for an additional cost).

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is an orthopedic exam for a dog?
An orthopedic exam for a dog is a physical exam performed by a veterinarian to evaluate the condition of the musculoskeletal system. Our in-home exams include a comprehensive assessment of your pet’s muscles, joints, ligaments, and bones. Your veterinarian will also assess your pet’s range of motion and check for any signs of discomfort or pain.
What is included in an orthopedic exam for a pet?
Evaluation of your pet’s orthopedic functioning will begin with a review of your pet’s history and a general physical examination. A general orthopedic assessment will be performed which includes specific tests that can be carried out during a home visit. These include a comprehensive evaluation of your pet’s muscles, joints, ligaments, and bones. We may recommend additional tests or a referral to a pet orthopedic specialist.
What is the most common orthopedic injury in dogs?
One of the most common orthopedic issues in dogs is hip dysplasia. Hip dysplasia is a condition where a dog’s hip joints do not develop normally, causing them to grind against one another. Over time, this leads to wear and tear of the hip joints, which causes discomfort, pain and can eventually affect your pet’s mobility.
What is the most common orthopedic injury in cats?
Osteoarthritis is one of the most common orthopedic issues seen in cats. Osteoarthritis is often diagnosed based on our physical exam and your cat’s history. There are certain treatments we can recommend to manage your cat’s symptoms, such as pain medication and changes to your cat’s diet.
How do I know if my dog has a torn ligament or muscle?
Signs that your dog may have torn a ligament or muscle may include pain upon examination, lameness, limping, swelling, and/or bruising. If the tear is mild, there may not be any outward signs other than your dog appearing to be favoring its leg.


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