Orthopedic Surgery Options for Dogs and Cats at Clifton Veterinary Clinic

Every pet owner wants to see their furry companion running, jumping, and enjoying life to the fullest. When your dog or cat faces an orthopedic problem such as a limp, injury, or chronic joint pain, it can be deeply distressing for both you and your pet. At Clifton Veterinary Clinic, located at 4117 Highway 6, Clifton, TX 76634, we understand how important mobility is for your pet’s quality of life. Our team of veterinarians is committed to restoring comfort and movement through a range of advanced orthopedic surgery options for pets in Clifton and surrounding communities.

In this blog, we’ll explain how to recognize signs of orthopedic issues in dogs and cats, explore common causes such as ligament tears and hip dysplasia, and discuss the professional orthopedic surgery treatments available at our clinic. We’ll also share practical advice for home care and prevention, and guide you on when to seek veterinary care. Whether you’re searching for orthopedic surgery for pets in Clifton or looking for a "vet near me" who offers specialized care, our veterinary team is here to help your companion get back on their paws. For a full overview of our surgical capabilities, including ACL repair in dogs, hip dysplasia surgery, and treatment for fractures, you can visit our orthopedic veterinary services page.

Recognizing Orthopedic Problems in Dogs and Cats

Orthopedic issues in pets can develop suddenly after an accident or gradually over time as joints and bones change with age or activity. Key symptoms to watch for are limping, reluctance to walk or climb stairs, stiffness after rest, and visible swelling around joints. Other signs include difficulty rising, yelping or vocalizing during movement, licking or chewing at a limb, and changes in posture or gait. Some pets may become less interested in play or exercise, while others might display behavioral changes such as irritability due to discomfort.

These symptoms can appear after your dog jumps awkwardly at the park, or you may notice your cat hesitating to leap onto her favorite windowsill. While a minor limp might resolve on its own, persistent or worsening symptoms should always prompt a visit to your local veterinary clinic. If you observe any of these signs and are looking for orthopedic surgery for pets near me or quality veterinary care in Clifton, our team is ready to help.

Understanding the Causes of Orthopedic Conditions

Orthopedic problems in pets stem from a variety of causes, and understanding these can help you protect your companion’s long-term health. Traumatic injuries, such as falls, collisions, or rough play, often lead to fractures, joint dislocations, or ligament tears. In particular, ACL injuries are common in active dogs, especially larger breeds. Over time, wear and tear or degenerative conditions can cause issues like hip dysplasia, arthritis, and patellar luxation. Some pets are genetically predisposed to certain orthopedic conditions; for example, hip dysplasia frequently affects breeds such as Labradors, German Shepherds, and Golden Retrievers.

Developmental problems, obesity, and poor nutrition can also play a role in joint health. For cats, high-impact jumps or play can sometimes result in fractures or soft tissue injuries. Recognizing these risk factors and maintaining a healthy lifestyle for your pet can reduce the likelihood of orthopedic problems requiring surgery.

Orthopedic Surgery Treatments at Clifton Veterinary Clinic

When your pet is diagnosed with an orthopedic condition that cannot be managed with conservative treatments alone, surgical intervention may be the best option to restore mobility and relieve pain. At Clifton Veterinary Clinic, we offer a comprehensive selection of orthopedic surgery for pets in Clifton, supported by advanced diagnostics such as digital radiology and ultrasound.

ACL Repair in Dogs and Cats

Tears of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) are among the most common orthopedic injuries in dogs, leading to significant lameness and discomfort. Our veterinary team is experienced in performing ACL repair surgery for dogs and cats, utilizing proven surgical techniques designed to stabilize the joint and support healing. The decision to pursue ACL repair in dogs is based on factors such as the severity of the injury, your pet’s age and activity level, and overall health.

Hip Dysplasia Surgery

Hip dysplasia is a hereditary condition that causes abnormal development of the hip joint, resulting in pain, decreased mobility, and arthritis over time. If your pet is suffering from hip dysplasia, our veterinarians can recommend the most appropriate surgical option. Procedures such as femoral head ostectomy (FHO) or total hip replacement may be considered, depending on your pet's needs and the extent of joint damage. To learn more about these procedures, visit our hip dysplasia surgery and treatment options page or read about Femoral Head Ostectomy (FHO) orthopedic surgery.

Fracture and Dislocation Repair

Accidents, falls, and trauma can result in broken bones or joint dislocations in both dogs and cats. Our veterinary professionals provide comprehensive fracture and dislocation care for pets, including internal fixation, external splinting, or surgical correction as needed. Timely treatment is essential to ensure proper healing and prevent long-term complications.

Other Orthopedic Surgeries

In addition to the procedures above, our team can address orthopedic conditions such as patellar luxation (knee cap dislocation), osteoarthritis, and certain congenital deformities. Every surgical plan is tailored to your pet’s unique needs, supported by a thorough examination, advanced imaging, and compassionate follow-up care. If you are searching for the best veterinary services near me or want to understand which orthopedic surgery for pets in Clifton is right for your companion, our veterinarians are here to guide you.

Prevention and Home Care for Pets with Orthopedic Issues

While not all orthopedic problems can be prevented, there are proactive steps you can take to support your pet’s joint and bone health. Maintaining a healthy weight is one of the most effective strategies; excess body weight places additional stress on joints and can worsen existing conditions. Feeding a balanced, veterinarian-recommended diet rich in nutrients supports bone and cartilage health. Regular, low-impact exercise such as leash walks for dogs or interactive play for cats helps keep muscles strong and joints flexible.

Providing soft bedding and non-slip surfaces at home can minimize the risk of injury and make movement easier for pets with mobility issues. For pets recovering from orthopedic surgery, following your veterinarian’s post-operative instructions is crucial for a successful outcome. This may include restricted activity, medication for pain management, and scheduled follow-up visits with our veterinary team.

If you have questions about orthopedic surgery for pets near me, or you want to discuss preventive care plans, our clinic is always available to support you and your pet throughout the recovery process.

When to Seek Veterinary Care for Orthopedic Concerns

It can be difficult to determine when a limp or change in movement requires immediate veterinary attention. In general, persistent lameness lasting more than a day or two, sudden or severe pain, inability to bear weight on a limb, or visible deformity all warrant a prompt veterinary evaluation. Additionally, if your pet becomes withdrawn, loses interest in food, or shows signs of distress alongside movement problems, it’s time to schedule an appointment.

At Clifton Veterinary Clinic, we encourage you to contact our team if you notice any changes in your pet’s mobility or comfort. Early diagnosis and intervention often lead to better outcomes, especially when it comes to orthopedic surgery for pets in Clifton. Remember, delaying care can result in worsening injury, chronic pain, and a longer recovery time.

If you’re searching for a veterinarian near me who can provide advanced orthopedic care, our clinic is equipped to help pets in Clifton and surrounding communities with a full range of services from diagnostics to surgery and rehabilitation.

Compassionate Orthopedic Care Close to Home

When your dog or cat is facing an orthopedic challenge, you want a veterinary team you can trust. At Clifton Veterinary Clinic, we are dedicated to providing advanced orthopedic surgery for pets in Clifton and the surrounding area, helping your companion regain the comfort and mobility they deserve. Whether your pet needs ACL repair in dogs, hip surgery, or fracture care, our experienced veterinarians will guide you every step of the way.

To discuss your pet’s orthopedic needs, schedule an appointment with our caring team today. We are committed to delivering the highest standard of veterinary care and building lasting relationships with every family we serve. If you’re looking for a vet near me or need guidance on orthopedic surgery for pets in Clifton, call us at (254) 675-8925 or visit our orthopedic veterinary services page for more information. Your pet’s comfort, happiness, and mobility are always our top priorities.

This blog is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you have concerns about your pet’s mobility or pain, please schedule a consultation with a licensed veterinarian.