Watching a once-active pet struggle to climb the stairs or hesitate before a jump can be heartbreaking. Whether the cause is a sudden sports injury or the slow progression of a degenerative joint condition, orthopedic issues significantly impact a pet's quality of life. At Rock Creek Veterinary Hospital in Broomfield, CO, Dr. Patrick Kalenzi, DVM, and Dr. Paul Veralli, DVM, specialize in providing the surgical expertise needed to get your companions moving comfortably again.
If you are looking for a veterinarian near you with the diagnostic tools and surgical skill to handle complex bone and joint issues, our vet hospital is here to support you.
What is Orthopedic Surgery?
Orthopedic surgery focuses on the skeletal system and its associated soft tissues, including bones, joints, ligaments, and tendons. While some conditions can be managed with medication, orthopedic surgery is often the most effective way to restore full function and eliminate chronic pain.
Common Procedures for Dogs and Cats
Our Broomfield, CO, veterinarian hospital team is equipped to perform a wide range of corrective and restorative procedures:
● CCL Repair (Cranial Cruciate Ligament): Similar to an ACL tear in humans, this is one of the most common needs for orthopedic surgery for dogs. We utilize advanced techniques to stabilize the knee joint.
● Fracture Repair: Using plates, pins, and screws, we can realign and stabilize broken bones to ensure they heal straight and strong.
● Patellar Luxation: This condition, in which the kneecap slips out of place, is frequently seen in smaller breeds. Surgery can realign the "track" for the kneecap, preventing future arthritis.
● Hip and Joint Procedures: For pets suffering from dysplasia or severe trauma, orthopedic surgery for cats and dogs can involve femoral head ostectomies (FHO) to eliminate bone-on-bone pain.
A Comprehensive Path to Healing
As your veterinarian, we know that the surgery itself is only the first step. Success depends on a careful "pre-habilitation" assessment and a dedicated post-operative recovery plan. Our vet hospital provides customized pain management protocols and guidance on physical rehabilitation to ensure the joint remains mobile while the bone or ligament heals.
Searching for a veterinarian who understands the bond you share with your pet is essential when facing surgery. At Rock Creek Veterinary Hospital, we combine technical precision with the compassionate care you expect from a vet near you in Broomfield, CO. Our goal is to see your pet return to their favorite activities, from chasing a ball to lounging in a sunbeam, pain-free. If you need an orthopedic surgery consultation for your pet, call us at (720) 669-4200.
Dr. Don Kerrihard
Orthopedic Surgeon
Dr. Don Kerrihard is our resident specialist in dog and cat orthopedic and soft tissue surgery. He graduated from Colorado State University, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences in 1991. His surgical orthopedic training came from the Harrison Memorial Animal Hospital in Denver. He worked there from 1994 to 2000 before becoming a mobile surgeon. Our patients are in his expertly skilled hands during our knee/stifle stabilizing surgeries, fracture repair, and other specific bone and soft tissue surgeries. Dr. Kerrihard is a father of two boys.
