Orthopedic Surgery
Specialized Care for Bone, Joint & Mobility Issues
When your pet is in pain or struggling to move like they used to, it’s more than just a limp—it affects their entire quality of life. At Trailhead Veterinary Services in Billings, Montana, we specialize in orthopedic surgery to help dogs and cats regain mobility, reduce pain, and get back to doing what they love.
Whether it’s a torn ligament, a dislocated kneecap, or a broken bone, our team is trained in advanced surgical techniques and provides personalized care every step of the way.
Our Services
What We Do for Orthopedic Health
Orthopedic problems are complex, but you don’t have to travel out of town to get top-level care. At Trailhead, we offer a range of orthopedic procedures in-house.
Every case is carefully evaluated with diagnostic imaging and physical assessment to determine the best treatment. Whether it’s surgery or another option, we guide you through each step with confidence.
Cruciate ligament (ACL/CCL) repair
Patellar luxation repair
Amputation (when medically necessary)
Fracture repair
Joint stabilization
Arthrotomy
Post-surgical rehab guidance
What to Know
Understanding Orthopedic Conditions in Pets
Orthopedic surgery addresses conditions that affect your pet’s bones, joints, ligaments, and tendons. Some issues are caused by injury (like a torn ligament from jumping off the couch), while others may be genetic or develop gradually over time. These are some of the most frequent cases we treat:
Cranial Cruciate Ligament (CCL) Tear
Very similar to an ACL injury in people. It often leads to limping, pain, and long-term joint instability. Left untreated, it can lead to arthritis and further injury.
Patellar Luxation
This condition results from the kneecap slipping out of alignment, often leading to a hopping or skipping gait.
Hip Dysplasia
A common orthopedic issue where the ball and socket of the hip don’t fit together properly. Can cause uneven weight distribution in the hips, leading to limping and joint pain.
Fractures and Joint Injuries
Fractures are usually caused by sudden impacts, while joint injuries may develop gradually from ongoing wear and tear.
Why Choose Us
We pride ourselves on delivering orthopedic care for lasting comfort and mobility.
At Trailhead Veterinary Services, we bring high-level orthopedic care to Billings, using trusted surgical methods, careful pain management, and clear post-operative recovery plans tailored to each pet.
Our surgical interventions not only reduce pain and restore mobility but also enhance your pet’s overall quality of life. With our approach and skilled techniques, we help pets get back to living their best lives.
Your Questions, Our Answers
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my pet needs orthopedic surgery?
Limping, stiffness, reluctance to jump or play, or sudden lameness are common signs. We’ll perform a full exam and imaging to determine the cause and best treatment plan.
Is orthopedic surgery safe for my pet?
Yes, though it’s more complex than routine procedures. We take extra precautions with anesthesia, monitoring, and recovery to ensure your pet’s safety.
How long is the recovery time?
Recovery depends on the procedure, but many pets begin improving within a few weeks. Full recovery may take 6–12 weeks, and we’ll provide a custom recovery guide.
Will my pet be in pain after surgery?
Your pet will receive pain medications before, during, and after surgery. We’re very proactive with pain management and will send home meds and instructions.
Do you offer rehab or therapy afterward?
While we don’t have in-house physical therapy, we provide thorough post-op care instructions and can recommend trusted local resources in Billings, Montana.
What’s the cost of orthopedic surgery?
It depends on the procedure and your pet’s condition. We’ll give you a detailed estimate before any surgery and talk through all your options.
Do you perform orthopedic surgeries on cats too?
Yes! While it’s more common in dogs, we do orthopedic procedures for cats when needed—especially for fractures or joint injuries.
Can my pet live a normal life after surgery?
In most cases, yes. Many pets return to full activity after successful orthopedic surgery and rehab, especially when caught and treated early.
Will my pet need to be crated during recovery?
Most pets need restricted activity (often crate rest) for part of the recovery period to prevent re-injury. We’ll go over this in detail with you.
Why choose Trailhead for orthopedic surgery?
We offer advanced surgical care in a comfortable, local setting—right here in Billings—with a personal touch, clear communication, and compassionate follow-through. As one of the most affordable clinics in the region, we make high-quality veterinary care more accessible to the pets and people who need it most.
Ready to Give Your Pet the Best Care?
We’re dedicated to providing personalized veterinary care to keep your pets healthy, happy, and thriving. Contact us today or explore our services to learn more.
