Orthopedic Surgery
in Haymarket, VA

Dominion Valley Animal Hospital, located in Haymarket Virginia, offers a range of veterinary services, including orthopedic surgery for pets. Our team of experienced veterinarians is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and techniques to diagnose and treat a variety of orthopedic conditions. From fractures to joint replacements, we strive to provide the best care possible for your furry family members. With a focus on personalized attention and compassionate care, pet owners can trust us for their pet's orthopedic needs.

Immediately after amputation surgery, it is very normal for there to be swelling and a lot of bruising around the incision site. We are always happy when they feel great after surgery and want to move around, but the more active they are immediately after surgery, the more swelling and bruising and bleeding may occur. Remember, they have had major surgery and rest is important. Please do not allow your pet to over do it in the first week after surgery, even if they feel up to it.

The amount of drainage from the incision can be minimized by keeping your pet calm and quiet. The easiest way to keep them calm and quiet is to put them in a well padded crate. No matter where they rest, please be sure it is well padded for their comfort. If you see drainage from the incision, a warm, moist washcloth can be used to keep the area clean. Sometimes we place sutures on the outside of the skin. Sometimes, we are able to bury them under the skin. Your discharge instructions will tell you if the sutures need to be removed, but usually, if you can see sutures, then they need removal in 2 weeks. If you do not see them, they are under the skin and will dissolve on their own.

When you get your pet home, they will need supervision and support until they can walk on their own. For some pets this will happen right away and others may need support for a few days. Stairs may be a challenge at first, so please be sure they are supervised until they can go up and down with confidence. Smooth floors may pose a challenge so rugs and runners with non skid pads can be super helpful to your pet.

Keeping their nails clipped short can also help prevent slippage. If extra support is needed, you can purchase a sling that is made to fit your pet’s size. You can also improvise by using a towel or cutting up a canvas shopping bag with handles. For front leg amputees, sling it under their chest and for rear leg amputees, place the sling under their belly. Be sure to stand on the same side as the amputation to act as a counterweight when helping them with a sling. Your pet will have to adjust how they use the potty by learning to balance differently. They will figure this out quickly, but it may take a few days before you see a bowel movement, as they may hold it for as long as possible while they are learning to adjust. Don’t worry, they will move their bowels when they are ready.

Rest is important for the first few days as their incision heals, but after a few days, getting them up and moving slowly is good for them so that their muscles stay strong. Other pets may not understand what has happened and may try to play too rough, so keep your amputee away from other well-meaning pets until they are healed. You can allow them to return to full function after a week or 2 if they can get around on their own with confidence. If your pet enjoys the water, swimming is great physical therapy.