Orthopedic Surgery for Dogs and Cats in Gilford, NH | Birch Bark Veterinary Clinic
Helping Pets Move Comfortably Again
Painful joints, sudden limps, and slow-moving walks can all signal orthopedic problems in pets. These issues can impact everything from playtime to daily comfort—and no pet parent wants to watch their furry companion struggle. Whether it’s a Labrador limping after a hike around Lake Winnipesaukee or a senior cat avoiding the stairs, orthopedic conditions can seriously affect quality of life.
That’s why Birch Bark Veterinary Clinic provides advanced orthopedic surgical care right here in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire. With a reputation for friendly, practical guidance and a commitment to thoughtful medicine, our team helps pets return to comfort—without sending families far from home or into a referral hospital system.

Orthopedic Care We Provide
Orthopedic surgery is a big decision, but it doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Our clinic focuses on keeping you informed, supported, and confident about your choices. We perform several orthopedic procedures regularly, using advanced techniques while maintaining a calm, approachable environment.
Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO) is considered one of the most effective treatments for dogs with cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) injuries—the canine version of a torn ACL. TPLO is widely considered one of, if not the best, surgical option for any active dog, from 5 pounds to 200.
Birch Bark Veterinary Clinic is one of the few non-board-certified practices in New Hampshire to offer TPLO. That means you can access this high-level care without leaving the Lakes Region or navigating complex specialty hospital logistics.
When hip pain becomes too much—due to trauma, arthritis, or hip dysplasia—femoral head ostectomy (FHO) can provide lasting relief. This surgery removes the damaged part of the hip joint and allows the surrounding muscles to take over its function. It’s especially helpful for smaller pets and cats and is a procedure we’ve seen dramatically improve comfort and function.
Accidents happen. Whether your pet was hit by a car, took a bad fall, or had a rough playdate, we offer surgical repair of fractures using pins, plates, and external fixation depending on the nature of the injury. Our approach combines precision with compassion—stabilizing bones while supporting you through your pet’s recovery process.
Every orthopedic case includes detailed, at-home recovery instructions. We know most pets heal best at home, surrounded by familiar scents and people. That’s why we don’t offer boarding or hospitalization—just clear communication and a phone line you can call if something feels off. Our recovery support includes pain management, mobility guidance, and check-in appointments to ensure everything is healing as it should.

Advanced Surgery Without Leaving the Lakes Region
Families in Gilford and surrounding towns—from Meredith to Laconia—often tell us they’re relieved to find advanced orthopedic care close to home. No long drives to out-of-town surgical centers. No impersonal intake forms or rushed conversations.
Birch Bark Veterinary Clinic is locally owned and community-focused. We’ve built a practice that combines top-tier veterinary knowledge with a neighborly, down-to-earth attitude. Our team is proud to serve fellow small business owners, retirees, and young families alike—and we treat every pet like a part of our extended family.
Having surgery done here also means your pet’s medical team knows them beyond the day of the procedure. We see them for wellness visits, help manage chronic pain, and track their orthopedic health over time. That continuity of care matters.
Dr. Keller has extensive additional training and experience with orthopedics, but did not perform a surgery residency. This allows us to perform selected advanced surgeries with the same level of skill, experience, and excellent outcomes, but without the prohibitive cost.
What to Expect: From Diagnosis to Recovery
Orthopedic conditions often come on suddenly—but they can also develop over time. Regardless of how the problem started, we begin with a thorough orthopedic evaluation. This may include:
- A detailed exam of your pet’s gait, joints, and range of motion
- Digital radiographs (X-rays) to confirm diagnosis
- In-house diagnostics to assess overall health before surgery
Once we’ve diagnosed the issue, we’ll sit down with you to walk through the options. You’ll get clear, honest information without pressure. If surgery is recommended, we’ll explain the process and timeline step-by-step, from anesthesia protocols to pain management.
On the day of surgery, your pet is cared for by a team that knows them—and takes the time to make sure they feel safe and secure. After surgery, you’ll go home with detailed instructions and ongoing access to our team for follow-up questions or concerns.
We don’t just perform surgery. We partner with you for your pet’s full healing journey.