Which orthopedic problems do you treat?
We operate on fractures and joint injuries that steal mobility, including cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) tears, which many people call ACL tears. If your dog was running, yelped, and will not put a hind leg down, that is a common story. We start with an exam and digital X-rays.
Is an ACL tear the same as a CCL tear?
Yes. The names come from human and veterinary anatomy. They describe the same ligament. For many larger dogs, TPLO (tibial plateau leveling osteotomy) is one of the repairs we use. We match the plan to your dog’s size and lifestyle.
Do you handle every orthopedic case in-house?
We start here. For complex cases we can arrange a board-certified veterinary surgeon, either as a referral or to operate at our hospital when that is the safer plan.
What happens on surgery day?
You get a written estimate before we operate. We use pre-anesthetic blood work when appropriate, an anesthesia plan based on age and health, and continuous monitoring of heart rate, oxygen, and blood pressure. Pain control starts before surgery and continues at home.
What is recovery like?
Initial bone and joint healing is often 8 to 12 weeks. Full return to activity can take several months. We give you a home checklist: non-slip rugs, baby gates for stairs, bedding at ground level, and easy access to food, water, and a litter box.
What happens at this visit?
- Exam, lameness assessment, and digital X-rays with a written estimate.
- Surgery with monitoring and pain control when it is the right next step.
- Recheck plan and activity limits before you go home.
What to bring
Bring a short list of what your pet eats and any medications or preventives they take. You do not need old clinic records if we already see your pet here. Follow any fasting instructions we give when you book.
Reviewed by Dr. Jaspal Harika, DVM, founder and veterinarian at Morgan Hill Animal Hospital.
For informational and educational purposes only. This is not professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If your pet has an emergency, contact Morgan Hill Animal Hospital or your nearest emergency animal clinic immediately. Always consult a licensed veterinarian.
Book an orthopedic consult
Call (408) 779-7325 or use the contact form to schedule.
