Orthopedic Medicine

Orthopedic problems can affect any pet; however, some breeds are more susceptible than others.  At Ahwatukee Animal Care Hospital we are able to provide most orthopedic surgical and diagnostic treatments.

Orthopedic medicine offered at Ahwatukee Animal Care Hospital includes:

Hip Dysplasia X-rays  

Available with most common anesthetic procedures, a hip x-ray will check for possible problems. This is especially important for large breed dogs predisposed to hip dysplasia such as Labradors and German Shepherds.

  Normal hip x-ray  

Severe Hip dysplasia.  Areas of roughened bone, with spurs off the top of the socket and extra calcified masses. These regions of extra bone growth indicate degenerative arthritic change. Both the ball and socket are irregularly shaped and fit together poorly.

OFA X-rays  

For owners who desire to certify their pet's hips with the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA), we offer OFA radiographs.  This procedure is performed on an adult dog (ages two years and older) while the pet is under anesthesia. OFA certification is often a requirement in order to breed and sell certain breeds of AKC registered dogs.

Orthopedic Surgical Procedures  

An orthopedic surgery can involve anything from repairing broken bones to the reconnection of a joint.  Many times an orthopedic problem such as a broken bone, luxating petella, or torn ACL, will require surgical correction.  Our doctors perform several of these procedures every month.  If our doctors believe the surgery required is beyond their expertise, they will refer you to a board certified orthopedic specialist; however, you can always rely on our veterinarians here at Ahwatukee Animal Care Hospital to provide post-operative care such as pain management, laser therapy, acupuncture, and x-rays.

Call us to set up your pet's orthopedic procedure.