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Orthopedics

Orthopedic Care in Tampa, FL

Hickory Hill Veterinary Services provides expert orthopedic evaluation and treatment in Tampa, helping pets and livestock regain mobility and live free from musculoskeletal pain.

Understanding Veterinary Orthopedics

Veterinary orthopedics encompasses the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting bones, joints, muscles, tendons, and ligaments in animals. Common orthopedic conditions we treat include hip dysplasia, cruciate ligament rupture (ACL/CCL), patellar luxation, fractures, dislocations, osteochondrosis, bone tumors, and arthritis. Orthopedic disease is a leading cause of pain and reduced quality of life in dogs and cats, as well as a significant cause of reduced performance in horses and livestock. Our team takes a thorough, systematic approach to orthopedic evaluation, using physical examination, diagnostic imaging, and your pet’s history to develop the most appropriate treatment plan.

What to Expect During an Orthopedic Evaluation

Our veterinary team at Hickory Hill Veterinary Services provides comprehensive orthopedic assessment to identify and address the cause of your pet’s lameness or joint pain.

Gait and Lameness Analysis

Our veterinarian observes your pet walking, trotting, and moving in different directions to identify which limb or limbs are affected and the severity of lameness.

Hands-On Orthopedic Examination

Each joint and long bone is systematically palpated and manipulated to identify pain, swelling, instability, crepitus, or reduced range of motion. Specific orthopedic tests such as the Ortolani sign, tibial thrust, and patellar evaluation are performed as indicated.

Diagnostic Imaging

Digital radiographs are obtained to assess bone alignment, joint spacing, arthritic changes, fractures, and bone density. Ultrasound may be used to evaluate soft tissue structures such as tendons and ligaments.

Treatment Plan Development

Based on the diagnosis, our veterinarian develops a personalized treatment plan that may include medical management, physical rehabilitation, surgical repair, or referral to a specialist for advanced procedures.

Why Orthopedic Care is Critical for Your Pet

Musculoskeletal pain is one of the most common and underdiagnosed causes of suffering in animals. Pets hide pain instinctively, meaning many orthopedic conditions are more advanced by the time they are recognized.

Early Diagnosis Improves Outcomes

Many orthopedic conditions progress over time. Early diagnosis and intervention — before severe arthritis or permanent damage develops — provides the best long-term outcomes and quality of life for your pet.

Multimodal Treatment Options

Orthopedic management can incorporate pain medications, joint supplements, physical rehabilitation, laser therapy, shockwave therapy, and surgery depending on the diagnosis and severity.

Mixed Animal Orthopedic Capability

Our practice provides orthopedic care for dogs, cats, horses, and livestock, offering a rare combination of small and large animal expertise under one roof.

Practice Highlights

  • Comprehensive Orthopedic Workup: Gait analysis, hands-on exam, and digital radiography
  • Advanced Treatments: Surgery, laser therapy, shockwave therapy, and rehabilitation
  • Mixed Animal Expertise: Small animals and large animals
  • Dr. Elizabeth Shrode, DVM: AAEP member with expertise in equine and small animal orthopedics

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of orthopedic conditions do you treat at Hickory Hill Veterinary Services?

We treat hip dysplasia, cruciate ligament rupture, patellar luxation, fractures, dislocations, osteochondrosis, arthritis, bone tumors, and musculoskeletal pain in dogs, cats, horses, and livestock. Call (813) 373-5924 to discuss your pet’s specific condition.

How much does orthopedic surgery cost and how long does it take?

Orthopedic surgery costs vary widely depending on the procedure, patient size, and complexity. Consultations and diagnostics are separate from surgical fees. Call (813) 373-5924 for a personalized estimate after evaluation.

How should I prepare my pet for orthopedic surgery or treatment?

For an evaluation, no special preparation is needed. Bring any previous X-rays or medical records. If surgery is recommended, pre-surgical bloodwork and fasting will be required. Our team will provide complete pre-surgical instructions.

What conditions can orthopedic care help prevent or treat?

Orthopedic care can treat fractures, joint instability, hip dysplasia, arthritis, and many other musculoskeletal conditions. Early intervention prevents worsening disease, chronic pain, and permanent disability. Our multimodal approach offers both medical and surgical solutions tailored to your pet’s needs.

How do I schedule an orthopedic appointment, and what are your hours?

Call (813) 373-5924 or visit 326 W. Bearss Avenue, Tampa, FL 33613. Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 9am–6pm.

Schedule Your Pet’s Orthopedic Evaluation Today

Restore your pet’s mobility with expert orthopedic care in Tampa. Call (813) 373-5924 or visit 326 W. Bearss Avenue, Tampa, FL 33613. Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 9am–6pm.