Orthopedic Surgery for Pets

At The Animal Doctors of Orange County, we understand how important mobility is to your pet’s quality of life. That’s why we offer specialized orthopedic surgical services performed by board-certified experts, helping pets recover from injuries and regain comfort and function.

Partnering with a Board-Certified Orthopedic Surgeon

We are proud to work with Dr. Zach Smith, DVM, DACVS (Surgery, Orthopedics), a board-certified veterinary orthopedic surgeon. Dr. Smith performs in-hospital orthopedic consultations and surgeries at your pet’s primary veterinarian’s office, providing expert care in a familiar, comfortable environment.

<<Insert headshot picture here>>

Common Orthopedic Procedures

Some of the procedures Dr. Smith performs include:

  • TPLO (Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy) for ACL repairs – This advanced surgical procedure stabilizes the knee after an ACL tear, allowing pets to regain normal mobility. Learn more about TPLO (these are blog links)
     
  • FHO (Femoral Head Ostectomy) – A surgical procedure that removes the head of the femur to relieve pain from hip disease or injury. Learn more about FHO (these are blog links)
     
  • Additional orthopedic surgeries for fractures, joint stabilization, and ligament repair
     

Why Your Pet May Need Orthopedic Surgery

Your veterinarian may refer your pet for an orthopedic consultation if they:

  • Have a torn ACL or other ligament injuries
     
  • Are suffering from hip or joint pain
     
  • Have fractures or broken bones
     
  • Have developmental conditions affecting mobility
     
  • Require surgical treatment for chronic arthritis or degenerative joint disease
     

How It Works at Our Hospital

  1. Referral & Consultation – Your primary veterinarian will refer your pet for an orthopedic evaluation with Dr. Smith.
     
  2. Pre-Surgical Assessment – Dr. Smith reviews your pet’s medical history, performs a physical exam, and discusses surgical options and expected outcomes.
     
  3. Surgery & Recovery – Surgeries are performed here, at your pet’s primary doctor’s office, in our fully equipped surgical suite. A post-operative care plan is provided to ensure safe and comfortable recovery.
     
  4. Follow-Up & Rehabilitation – We coordinate ongoing monitoring, rehabilitation, and physical therapy to help your pet regain strength and mobility.
     

Continuity of Care

Because Dr. Smith performs these procedures in our facility, we can coordinate closely with your pet’s primary veterinarian for follow-up care, ensuring your pet’s treatment plan is seamless and comprehensive.

💛 Helping pets move comfortably again is our priority. If your veterinarian has recommended an orthopedic consultation or surgery, contact The Animal Doctors of Orange County today to schedule your appointment with Dr. Zach Smith.