Pet Orthopedic Surgery

Poulsbo Animal Clinic conducts advanced pet orthopedic surgery in Poulsbo, WA, for dogs and cats, helping restore mobility, reduce pain, and improve quality of life. Led by an experienced pet orthopedic surgeon, our team offers in-house solutions like TPLO, CBLO, and other specialized procedures.

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What Is Pet Orthopedic Surgery?

Orthopedic pet surgery focuses on diagnosing and treating conditions affecting bones, joints, ligaments, and muscles. These procedures are often recommended for pets experiencing injuries, mobility issues, or chronic conditions such as arthritis or ligament tears.

At Poulsbo Animal Clinic, our approach to orthopedic pet surgery is both advanced and individualized. We carefully evaluate each pet’s condition and develop a treatment plan designed to restore function, reduce discomfort, and support long-term recovery.

Advanced Orthopedic Procedures & Techniques

Our clinic offers a wide range of orthopedic procedures performed in-house, eliminating the need to travel to larger referral centers. Dr. Craig Adams brings extensive experience and advanced training, including membership in the Veterinary Orthopedic Society (VOS) and specialized techniques such as minimally invasive fracture repair.

Cruciate Ligament Repair (CBLO & TPLO Surgery for Pets)

Injuries to the cranial cruciate ligament (CCL)—similar to the ACL in humans—are one of the most common causes of lameness. We offer CBLO surgery, an advanced evolution of TPLO surgery for pets, designed to stabilize the knee joint and promote faster healing. This technique reduces long-term joint damage and supports excellent functional outcomes.

Pet Knee Surgery

We treat a range of knee conditions, including:

Torn or ruptured cruciate ligaments
Meniscus injuries
Luxating patellas

Our goal is to restore stability and allow pets to return to comfortable movement as quickly as possible.

Pet Hip Surgery

Hip issues can significantly impact your pet’s mobility and comfort. We perform procedures such as:

Femoral Head Ostectomy (FHO) for severe joint damage
Repair of femoral head and neck fractures
Treatment for hip dislocations using advanced techniques

These procedures help relieve pain and allow pets to regain function over time.

Minimally Invasive Fracture Repair (MIPO)

Our team utilizes Minimally Invasive Plating Osteosynthesis (MIPO), a technique that stabilizes fractures through small incisions. This approach preserves blood supply, reduces infection risk, and promotes faster healing with less tissue disruption.

Why Orthopedic Surgery Is Important

Orthopedic conditions can cause significant pain, reduced mobility, and long-term joint damage if left untreated. Surgical intervention often provides the best opportunity for restoring normal function and improving quality of life.

Benefits of orthopedic surgery include:

Relief from chronic pain and inflammation
Restoration of mobility and joint stability
Prevention of further joint damage or arthritis
Improved ability to exercise and stay active
Enhanced overall quality of life

Without proper treatment, conditions such as ligament tears or fractures can worsen over time, leading to more complex issues and prolonged discomfort.

Advanced Orthopedic Care Close to Home

At Poulsbo Animal Clinic, we are proud to provide pet orthopedic surgery in Poulsbo, WA, with a level of expertise typically found in specialty centers. As an AAHA-accredited hospital, we follow strict standards for surgical care, anesthesia, and monitoring to ensure your pet’s safety at every stage.

Dr. Adams’ advanced training, including techniques like CBLO surgery, combined with our state-of-the-art equipment and collaborative approach with specialists, allows us to deliver high-quality outcomes. Our team is committed to helping pets recover comfortably while keeping owners informed and supported.

What to Expect During Orthopedic Surgery

We understand that surgery can feel overwhelming, which is why we prioritize clear communication and attentive care throughout the entire process.

Before Surgery:

Your pet will receive a full evaluation, including physical exams and pre-surgical bloodwork. We customize anesthesia and pain management plans to ensure safety and comfort.

During Surgery:

A dedicated technician continuously monitors your pet’s vital signs using advanced equipment, tracking heart rate, oxygen levels, blood pressure, and more. Our anesthetists focus solely on monitoring, ensuring your pet receives constant attention.

After Surgery:

Recovery begins immediately with pain management, at-home care instructions, and follow-up visits. We guide you through each step to support a smooth and successful recovery. Discover success stories of our approach to orthopedic care on our Case Studies page.

FAQs About Orthopedic Surgery

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How do I know if my pet needs orthopedic surgery?

Signs include limping, difficulty standing or walking, reluctance to exercise, or visible pain. A veterinary exam and diagnostics can determine the best course of action.

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How long does recovery after surgery take?

Recovery varies depending on the procedure, but many pets begin improving within weeks, with full recovery taking several months.

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What is the difference between TPLO and CBLO surgery?

Both are techniques used to treat cruciate ligament injuries. CBLO is a more advanced method that may offer improved joint alignment and faster healing in certain cases.

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Will my pet need rehabilitation?

Yes. Controlled activity, at-home exercises, and gradual return to normal movement are essential for optimal healing.

Restoring Comfort, Mobility, and Quality of Life

Orthopedic care plays a vital role in helping pets stay active and comfortable. At Poulsbo Animal Clinic, we provide advanced surgical solutions for dogs and cats with a focus on precision, safety, and long-term success. Our team is dedicated to supporting pets throughout the greater Poulsbo area with expert orthopedic care that helps them return to the activities they love with improved mobility and confidence.

Veterinary Services in Poulsbo, WA

Wellness Exams

Vaccinations

Parasite Control

Microchipping

Diagnostics & Labwork

Dentistry

Soft Tissue Surgery

Orthopedic Surgery

Urgent Care

Euthanasia