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Orthopedic Surgery

Advanced orthopedic surgery for pets in Gilford, NH. TPLO, FHO, fracture repair & more—delivered with a small-town heart in the Lakes Region.
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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.

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Orthopedic Surgery

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.

TPLO Surgery

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.

View Brochure on TPLO Surgery

FHO (Hip Surgery)

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.

Fracture Repair and Stabilization

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.

Post-Op Recovery Guidance

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

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.

Thoughtful, Local Care That’s Easy to Access

Choosing orthopedic surgery can feel like a big leap—but it doesn’t have to mean leaving your community. At Birch Bark Veterinary Clinic, we make advanced surgery feel accessible and approachable. You won’t get lost in a maze of departments or have to drive to the city for high-level treatment.

 

We also offer Trupanion direct pay—something few clinics in the region provide. This allows insured clients to skip the reimbursement hassle and focus on their pet’s recovery instead.

 

If your pet is limping, showing signs of pain, or you’ve been told they may need orthopedic surgery, give us a call. We’re happy to answer questions and offer a second opinion if needed.

 

Ready to talk? Call us at (603) 524-8900 to reach out.

Frequently Asked Question
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FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions About Orthopedic Surgery

If your dog or cat is limping, favoring a leg, reluctant to jump or climb, or showing pain when touched around a joint, it may be time for an orthopedic evaluation. Sudden changes or chronic issues both deserve a closer look.

TPLO is a surgical technique ideal for larger dogs or high-energy breeds. It changes the biomechanics of the knee joint to stabilize it long-term. Extracapsular repair uses surgical suture to stabilize the joint and is often used in smaller dogs or cats. Both have their place—our team will help you decide what’s best for your pet.

Many pets benefit from gentle rehab during recovery. We’ll guide you through at-home exercises or suggest formal rehab options depending on your pet’s needs.

The average recovery time after a TPLO procedure is approximately 8 weeks. 

We’ll give you a transparent estimate and walk you through available payment options. If surgery isn’t possible right now, we’ll explore pain management alternatives. For insured clients, we offer Trupanion direct pay to simplify the financial process.

Each pet is unique, and after your consultation appointment, we provide a customized estimate with no hidden fees. This estimate covers everything from surgery day to any necessary rechecks. Our prices are generally 30-50% lower than those of local specialists.