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​As part of the integrative approach to veterinary medicine, we use acupuncture, herbal medicine, food therapy, and Tui-na (Massage & Touch) to complement our traditional western veterinary care. Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine, TCVM, Veterinary Acupuncture Integrated Approach At Honeydew Animal Clinic, we embrace an integrative approach to animal health and healing. This allows our clients and their pets to benefit from both modern Western veterinary medicine and the time-honored wisdom of Eastern (Chinese) techniques. By combining advanced technology with age-old healing practices, we aim to promote lasting wellness and balance for every animal in our care. Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM) takes a holistic view of health, focusing on the overall well-being of the animal rather than treating symptoms alone. Through this approach, we strive to restore harmony within the body and support your pet’s natural ability to heal. How Is TCVM Applied? Every patient begins with a TCVM consultation, which includes an introduction to Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine and a detailed pattern diagnosis. During this session, Dr. Cliff Meyer meets with both the pet and the owner to discuss the basics of the TCVM healing process, the diagnostic approach, and the methods that may be used in treatment. Once a TCVM diagnosis is established and correlated with the Western medical findings, Dr. Meyer will explain the recommended treatment plan — including the techniques to be used and the expected outcomes. Most treatment plans begin with a series of six sessions. After the first three sessions, progress is carefully evaluated, and adjustments are made as needed to ensure the best possible results. Pet owners play an important role in the healing journey. Between sessions, owners receive simple at-home exercises and care instructions to help maintain progress and support continued healing. This often includes hands-on Tui-Na massage and food therapy to enhance energy flow and extend the benefits of each session. At Honeydew Animal Clinic, healing is a collaborative process — where both the practitioner and the owner work together to restore balance, promote vitality, and improve the well-being of every animal. Would you like me to make this version slightly shorter and more web-scannable (e.g., with subheadings or bullet points for each phase of treatment)? tcvm Dr. Cliff Meyer BVSc (Hons), CVA Veterinary Surgeon, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist Dr. Cliff Meyer completed his training in TCVM, Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine, through the Chi University in Florida U.S.A He enjoys being able to bridge the gap between holistic and western medicine while providing a safe and nurturing atmosphere in which to heal. Dr. Meyer is always looking to integrate new treatments and therapies into this practice and believes that continued learning is important for any good Veterinary Acupuncturist. Five branches of TCVM Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM) consists of five main branches that work together to promote balance and healing in animals. These are Acupuncture, which involves inserting fine needles into specific points to regulate the flow of Qi and relieve pain or dysfunction; Tui-na, a form of Chinese medical massage that stimulates circulation and relieves musculoskeletal problems; Chinese Herbal Medicine, which uses natural substances like plants and minerals to restore internal balance; Food Therapy, which applies the energetic properties and flavors of foods to maintain health and treat disease; and Qi-gong/Lifestyle, which focuses on cultivating and harmonizing vital energy through exercise, environment, and emotional balance. Together, these branches form a holistic approach to veterinary care, addressing the body, mind, and spirit of the animal. Acupuncture Acupuncture is a gentle, holistic therapy that supports your pet’s natural healing abilities. This time-tested practice involves placing fine, sterile needles at specific points on the body to stimulate circulation, relieve pain, and restore balance. At our clinic, we offer veterinary acupuncture as a safe and effective complement to traditional medical treatments. It can benefit pets with a variety of conditions, including arthritis, chronic pain, mobility issues, neurological disorders, and digestive problems. Many animals find the treatments relaxing, and pet owners often notice improved comfort, mobility, and overall well-being. Tui - Na Tui-Na, also known as “the ancient healing art of fingers and strength,” is a therapeutic form of massage that has been practiced in China for more than 5,000 years. This gentle yet powerful technique uses specific hand movements to promote circulation, relieve tension, and support the body’s natural healing processes. Dogs and cats can greatly benefit from Tui-Na as part of an integrative healthcare plan. It offers a simple but effective way to help manage pain, improve mobility, and address a variety of health concerns — from muscle stiffness to joint issues and stress-related conditions. Herbal Medicine Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine has been used for thousands of years to restore balance and support the body’s natural healing abilities. It involves the use of carefully selected herbal ingredients from the Chinese Herbal Materia Medica, combined into specific formulas designed to address particular health conditions. For dogs and cats, these herbal formulas are typically given orally — most often as tea pills, powders, or capsules. When used under the guidance of a veterinarian trained in Chinese medicine, herbal therapy can help manage a wide range of issues, including chronic pain, digestive problems, skin conditions, and age-related ailments. Food Therapy Food Therapy focuses on using nutrition to help treat and prevent imbalances within the body. Rooted in Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine, this approach considers the energetic properties of different foods — such as whether they are warming, cooling, or neutral — to create a customized diet that supports each animal’s unique health needs. By tailoring your pet’s diet in this way, Food Therapy can help improve digestion, boost energy, strengthen the immune system, and promote overall balance and well-being. Qi Gong (For the Practitioner) The word “Qi” in Chinese means “energy,” referring to the vital life force that flows through all living beings. “Gong” means “skill” or “cultivation.” Together, Qigong translates to “the skill of working with energy.” Qigong is an ancient healing practice that combines gentle movements, postures, controlled breathing, and meditation to enhance the flow of qi throughout the body. This mindful practice helps restore balance, support physical and emotional well-being, and strengthen the connection between body and mind. In veterinary medicine, Qigong principles can be integrated into holistic care approaches — supporting both animals and their caregivers in achieving greater harmony and vitality. Treatments Treating the whole animal using both Eastern and Western traditions Gastrointestinal Disorders Stress & Tension Urinary / kidney disorders Arthritis Pain Management Musculoskeletal Disorders Dermatological problems Respiratory problems rehabilitation with TCVM TCVM rehabilitation combines the principles of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine with hands-on therapies to support recovery, improve mobility, and restore balance. Through techniques like Tui-Na massage, acupuncture, herbal therapy, and guided food therapy, pets can regain strength, reduce pain, and enhance overall well-being. Rehabilitation plans are customized to each animal’s needs, with owners actively involved in supporting healing at home. Common conditions that require post operative Rehabilitation Stifle (Knee) , Hip and Spinal Surgery Dogs recovering from knee, hip, or spinal surgery can benefit from TCVM rehabilitation to support healing, reduce pain, and restore mobility. By combining acupuncture, Tui-Na massage, herbal therapy, and food therapy, our integrative approach improves circulation, decreases inflammation, and strengthens muscles and joints. Each rehabilitation plan is customized to the individual dog, with owners actively involved in at-home exercises and care to enhance recovery. This collaborative, holistic approach helps dogs regain function, comfort, and overall well-being. WHAT PEOPLE SAY There is truly no-one better than Dr Meyer and his team. My Scottie girl got treated for severe ear infections, with the most successful results! She loves visiting the vet. Thanks for everything! Outstanding, professional and friendly service from ALL the staff. Always thorough with explanations, very patient and understanding with questions. Appreciate all you have done for Mia and Milo this year. We have recently the most incredible service and care for our fur babies. Thank you to absolutely everyone here. We so appreciate you all.

Expert veterinary cardiology care to keep your pet’s heart healthy. Diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing support for pets with heart conditions medicine cardiology As pets grow older, they become more susceptible to heart disease, which is a prevalent condition among them. Some signs that your pet may have heart disease include coughing, breathing difficulties, and fatigue. It crucial to seek advice from your veterinarian if you observe any of these symptoms in your furry companion to ensure their well-being. Blood Pressure Monitoring Patient blood pressure is an indicator of general heart health. High blood pressure is a symptom and cause of cardiovascular disease and other major disorders. Testing is a quick, pain-free process that uses a cuff filled with air to measure systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Echocardiograms An echocardiogram is a non-invasive diagnostic tool that uses ultrasound waves to create images of the heart. This procedure is commonly used in both dogs and cats evaluate heart function and diagnose heart disease. It is a safe and painless way to gather important information about your pet's heart health showing us: Heart valve abnormalities Heart muscle thickening Heart dilation Heart tumors Congenital diseases Electrocardiogram ( ECG ) An electrocardiogram (ECG) is a safe and non-invasive procedure used to evaluate your pet's heart rate and rhythm. It can help diagnose potential disturbances called arrhythmias. ECG's may be combined with other diagnostic tests to confirm results and provide a more comprehensive evaluation of your pet's heart health. Thoracic Radiographs Thoracic radiographs, also known as chest x-rays, are a valuable diagnostic tool used to evaluate internal structures such as the heart and lungs. They provide detailed information about the size and shape internal organs, as well as any blockages or masses that may be present. Periodic x-rays are also used to assess treatment progress, making them an important part of ongoing care.

Comprehensive veterinary diagnostics for pets, offering accurate testing and advanced imaging to quickly identify health issues and guide effective treatment. medicine diagnostics At Honeydew Animal Clinic, our mission is to provide the highest standard of veterinary care through innovation, expertise, and compassion. Equipped with state-of-the-art medical technology, our skilled veterinarians deliver accurate diagnoses and effective treatments tailored to each pet’s unique needs. We take pride in combining modern medicine with a caring touch to ensure the best outcomes for your beloved companions. Premium Ultrasound Ultrasound examinations provide a non-invasive, pain-free, and highly accurate way to evaluate the internal organs of your dog or cat. This advanced diagnostic tool allows our veterinarians to assess the structure and health of vital organs—such as the liver, kidneys, and bladder—and to detect abnormalities like stones, tumors, or other changes that may not be visible on traditional radiographs. Our comprehensive ultrasound services include evaluations in the following areas: Echocardiology – Assessing heart structure and function Musculoskeletal – Examining muscles, tendons, and joints Ophthalmology – Imaging the anterior and posterior chambers of the eye Abdominal – Evaluating the liver, spleen, kidneys, bladder, adrenal glands, and digestive tract Digital Radiography At Honeydew Animal Clinic, we use the latest digital X-ray technology to get a clear look inside your pet—quickly, safely, and comfortably. Radiography is one of the most effective diagnostic tools in veterinary medicine, helping our team assess your pet’s bones, heart, lungs, and abdomen with precision. This advanced imaging allows us to detect conditions such as fractures, tumors, or foreign objects with ease. Because digital X-rays deliver instant results, we can discuss findings right away and move forward with the best care plan for your pet—all while keeping stress to a minimum. Endoscopy Pet owners are increasingly seeking diagnostic and treatment options that minimize discomfort and recovery time. Endoscopy offers a minimally invasive method for direct visualization of internal organs and body cavities. This advanced procedure enables our veterinarians to conduct detailed examinations, identify abnormalities, and obtain tissue samples for histopathologic evaluation. By reducing the need for exploratory surgery, endoscopy provides accurate diagnostic information while ensuring a more atraumatic experience for the animal patient. Full In-House Laboratory At Honeydew Animal Clinic, we are equipped with a state-of-the-art, fully functional in-house laboratory, allowing us to obtain rapid and accurate diagnostic results. Our laboratory capabilities enable us to perform a wide range of tests, including: Comprehensive blood work: Full blood counts, electrolyte panels, and liver and kidney function tests Pre-anaesthetic evaluations: Ensuring your pet’s safety before any surgical procedure Dermatology diagnostics: Skin scrapes, fine needle aspirates, impression smears, and other tests to identify underlying skin conditions Parasitology and urinalysis: Faecal examinations and urine testing for internal health and infection detection Viral screening: Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) testing With our advanced in-house equipment, we can deliver same-day results, enabling timely diagnosis and treatment for your pet.

Meet our dedicated veterinary team committed to providing compassionate, expert care for your pets, ensuring their health, comfort, and well-being at every visit. about us the team Our team of highly trained veterinarians, nurses, and support staff combines expertise with genuine dedication to animal health and well-being. Through ongoing professional development and the use of advanced technology, we deliver precise diagnostics and effective treatments. With a compassionate approach at the heart of our practice, we ensure every pet feels safe, comfortable, and cared for at every visit. veterinarians Dr. Jason Meyer BVSc, GPcert (SAM) Veterinary Surgeon Meet Jason Meyer, a dedicated veterinarian who has spent most of his life at Honeydew Clinic, following in the footsteps of his father, Dr Cliff Meyer. Jason has a keen interest in small animal surgery, medicine, and oncology. In 2022, he finished a General Practitioner Certificate in Small Animal Medicine. When he's not at the clinic, Jason enjoys fly-fishing and spending time in the great outdoors. Dr. Liané Meyer BVSc (Pret.) Veterinary Surgeon Dr Liané grew up in the small town of Parys, where her love for animals started to develop from a very young age. She qualified in 2017 and joined the Honeydew Animal Clinic team in 2021. She has a keen interest in surgery and dental care. Serving her patients with the best possible care is an absolute passion for Dr Liané. Being a mom keeps her busy but in her spare time, she enjoys hiking, bird watching and spending time with her husband (Dr Jason), their kids, 5 dogs and 3 cats. Dr. Nicola Barnard van Graan BVSc (Pret.) Veterinary Surgeon Dr Nicola Barnard Van Graan joined the honeydew team in 2012 immediately after qualifying in 2011. Her passion for animals developed from a young age when she did volunteer work at the oceanarium in her hometown of Gqeberha. She finds joy in building strong client-patient relationships and will go out of her way to help those grow. Her veterinary interests lie specifically with medicine and veterinary physiotherapy. When she is not at the practice she is spending time with husband, toddler, their 2 scotties and their cat. She loves travelling both in and outside of South Africa and has a passion for cooking . She can't wait meet you and your fur-baby. Dr. Erin Ivins BVSc (Pret.) Veterinary Surgeon Dr Erin Ivins was born and raised in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal. After completing her veterinary studies, she fulfilled her community service year in QwaQwa, Free State, where she developed a strong passion for both animal care and client relationships. Dr Ivins has a keen interest in veterinary medicine and soft tissue surgery. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with friends, staying active, and reading. veterinarian - TCVM Dr. Cliff Meyer BVSc (Hons), CVA Veterinary Surgeon, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist Dr. Cliff Meyer completed his training in TCVM, Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine, through the Chi University in Florida U.S.A He enjoys being able to bridge the gap between holistic and western medicine while providing a safe and nurturing atmosphere in which to heal. Dr. Meyer is always looking to integrate new treatments and therapies into this practice and believes that continued learning is important for any good Veterinary Acupuncturist. Nursing Angelique Lindi Lerato Admin / Reception Jocelyn Lauren Nellie Elrie Kennel & Shop Assistants Japhet Justice Innocent Bornwell Emmanuel Tim groomers Agness Stanley Jabulani

Expert veterinary surgery services for pets and animals, providing advanced surgical care, pain management, and post-operative support to ensure your pet’s health and recovery surgery general surgery At Honeydew Animal Clinic, we provide safe, precise, and compassionate surgical care for your pets. Our experienced veterinary team performs a wide range of procedures—from routine spays and neuters to more advanced soft tissue and orthopedic surgeries. Using state-of-the-art equipment and modern anaesthetic protocols, we prioritize your pet’s comfort and safety before, during, and after surgery, ensuring the best possible outcomes and a smooth recovery. Soft Tissue Surgery Honeydew Animal Clinic offers a variety of surgical procedures, including soft tissue surgery, spaying and neutering, as well as oral, thoracic, abdominal, and superficial surgeries. We also are experienced in traumatic and reconstructive surgery, as well as pathological procedures. Our experienced team of veterinarians is dedicated to providing the best possible care for your furry friend. Ophthalmic Surgery At Honeydew Animal Clinic, we provide comprehensive eye care for pets, addressing a wide range of conditions affecting the eyes and vision. From routine eye exams to the diagnosis and treatment of infections, injuries, or chronic eye diseases, our goal is to protect and preserve your pet’s sight while ensuring their comfort and overall well-being. Laser Surgery At our clinic, we offer laser surgery as a safe and effective treatment for a variety of skin conditions, including warts, skin tags, and chronic skin cancers. One of the key benefits of this advanced technique is that it can reduce post-operative pain, as the laser seals nerve endings during the procedure. If you’re looking for a precise, minimally invasive option to address your pet’s skin condition, laser surgery provides a reliable and comfortable solution. Ear Nose & Throat (ENT) Surgery BOAS surgery in dogs is a set of surgical procedures designed to treat Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome, a condition that commonly affects flat-faced breeds such as Bulldogs, Pugs, and French Bulldogs. These breeds have shortened skulls that crowd the soft tissues of the nose and throat, causing airway obstruction and breathing difficulties. BOAS occurs due to several anatomical abnormalities. The most common include stenotic nares (narrow nostrils), an elongated soft palate that blocks airflow into the trachea, and everted laryngeal saccules, which are small tissue folds that get pulled into the airway due to chronic respiratory effort. Some dogs may also have a hypoplastic trachea (narrow windpipe) or tonsillar eversion, which further restrict breathing. The goal of BOAS surgery is to improve airflow through the upper airways. The procedures are usually tailored to each dog’s needs and may include several corrections at once. Rhinoplasty (also called alaplasty) widens the nostrils by removing a wedge of tissue from the nasal openings. Staphylectomy or palatoplasty shortens an elongated soft palate so it no longer blocks the entrance to the trachea. Sacculectomy removes the everted laryngeal saccules to open the airway further, and in some cases, tonsillectomy is performed if the tonsils are enlarged and contributing to obstruction. The prognosis after BOAS surgery is generally very good, particularly if the condition is treated early—before permanent airway collapse develops. Most dogs experience reduced snoring, less respiratory noise, and greater exercise tolerance, which markedly improves their quality of life. However, weight management, avoiding overheating, and regular veterinary follow-ups remain crucial after surgery. advanced procedures Knee (Stifle) Surgery Cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) ruptures and Patellar luxation and are among the most common orthopedic conditions affecting dogs. The CCL plays a crucial role in stabilizing the knee joint and enabling smooth, controlled movement. When this ligament tears, the knee becomes unstable, often leading to pain, swelling, and limited mobility. CCL injuries are frequently seen in dogs and may occur suddenly—from activities such as jumping, twisting, or abrupt direction changes - or develop gradually due to chronic wear and degeneration over time. The patella, or kneecap, is a small bone situated where the quadriceps muscles of the thigh meet the tendon that attaches to the tibia (shinbone). It assists in proper knee mechanics and helps maintain correct limb alignment. Patellar luxation occurs when the kneecap temporarily or permanently slips out of its normal position, potentially causing abnormal cartilage wear, arthritis, and increased strain on other knee structures. While dogs of any breed or age can be affected, patellar luxation is especially common in small and toy breeds. Surgical Treatment Options for Cranial Cruciate Ligament (CCL) Tears Cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) tears are one of the most common causes of hind-limb lameness in dogs. The CCL stabilizes the knee joint (stifle) and prevents the femur (thigh bone) from sliding forward on the tibia (shin bone). When it tears—whether from injury or gradual weakening—the knee becomes unstable, painful, and prone to arthritis. There are two main surgical methods commonly used to restore stability to the knee: TPLO (Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy) and Extracapsular Repair (Lateral Suture Technique) using FiberWire®. Both surgeries aim to eliminate pain, improve mobility, and prevent further joint damage, but they do so in different ways. Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO) TPLO surgery is often recommended for medium to large dogs, or highly active dogs of any size. Instead of replacing the damaged ligament, the TPLO changes how the knee bears weight. During surgery, the top of the tibia is carefully cut, rotated, and then stabilized with a metal plate and screws. This changes the angle of the tibial plateau, preventing the femur from sliding forward when the dog walks or runs. Once healed, the knee remains stable without relying on the torn ligament. Benefits of TPLO: Provides excellent, long-term joint stability Suitable for active or athletic dogs Allows faster return to normal activity compared to traditional repairs Reduces the risk of arthritis progression when combined with proper rehab Recovery: Strict rest is required for the first 6–8 weeks, followed by a gradual rehabilitation plan to rebuild strength and range of motion. Most dogs begin walking comfortably within a few weeks and return to full activity in 4–6 months. Extracapsular Repair (Lateral Suture Technique with FiberWire®) The extracapsular, or “outside the joint,” technique is most commonly used in small to medium-sized dogs or less active larger dogs. In this procedure, a strong synthetic suture—often FiberWire®—is placed around the knee joint to mimic the function of the original ligament and hold the bones in proper alignment during healing. FiberWire® is a modern surgical material made from an advanced composite that is extremely strong, durable, and resistant to stretching or breaking. This helps maintain stable joint movement while the surrounding tissues form scar tissue to permanently support the knee. Benefits of Extracapsular Repair: Less invasive and shorter surgery time than TPLO Cost-effective and reliable for smaller or less active dogs Uses advanced, durable materials like FiberWire® for improved stability Recovery: As with TPLO, recovery requires rest and controlled movement for several weeks, followed by physiotherapy and gradual exercise. Most dogs recover well and return to normal activities within 3–6 months. Choosing the right surgery The best surgical option depends on your dog’s size, age, activity level, and degree of knee damage. TPLO is often preferred for large, athletic, or working dogs that place high stress on their joints. Extracapsular Repair (especially with FiberWire®) is an excellent option for small to medium-sized dogs or those with a more moderate activity level. Your veterinarian or orthopedic surgeon will evaluate your dog’s condition and help you decide which procedure will offer the best long-term comfort and mobility. Corrective Surgery for Luxating Patella A luxating patella (dislocated kneecap) can cause pain, abnormal leg movement, and long-term joint problems such as arthritis. When conservative management (like weight control and physical therapy) isn’t enough, surgery can help restore normal alignment, reduce pain, and improve mobility. There are several surgical techniques, often used in combination, depending on your dog’s anatomy and the severity of the luxation. Key Surgical Techniques 1. RidgeStop® Implant A RidgeStop® implant is a small, biocompatible device designed to help keep the kneecap in its proper position. It acts as a physical barrier that prevents the patella from slipping out of place, providing additional stability during healing. 2. Tibial Tuberosity Transposition (TTT) In this procedure, the front part of the tibia (shin bone) where the patellar tendon attaches is repositioned. Moving it slightly outward or inward helps the patella track correctly within its groove as the leg bends and straightens. 3. Trochleoplasty Trochleoplasty reshapes the groove in the femur (thigh bone) where the kneecap sits. By deepening or contouring the groove, the patella is less likely to slip out of place, improving stability and reducing wear on the joint cartilage. 4. Lateral Capsular Imbrication This technique tightens the soft tissues on the outer side of the knee joint to hold the patella in place. Often used alongside other procedures, it helps reinforce the knee and prevent future luxation. Recovery and Prognosis Recovery from patellar luxation surgery usually takes several weeks to months, depending on the severity of the luxation and the number of techniques used. Post-operative care typically includes: Restricted activity and leash walks for the first 6–8 weeks Physiotherapy or controlled exercises to rebuild strength and flexibility Weight management to reduce stress on the knee Most dogs recover well and regain normal or near-normal leg function, with a significant reduction in pain and lameness. Hip Surgery Hip dysplasia is a common orthopedic condition that affects the hip joints of dogs, especially larger breeds. It occurs when the ball and socket of the hip joint don’t fit together properly, leading to looseness (instability) in the joint. Over time, this instability causes abnormal wear, pain, and arthritis. The condition often develops as a dog grows, and both genetics and environmental factors—such as rapid growth, poor diet, excessive exercise, or being overweight—can play a role. Some dogs begin showing signs of hip dysplasia as puppies, while others don’t develop noticeable symptoms until adulthood. Femoral Head and Neck Excision (FHNE) Femoral head and neck excision, often called FHNE or femoral head ostectomy (FHO), is a surgical procedure used to relieve pain in a dog’s hip joint. It involves removing the “ball” part of the hip joint—the femoral head and neck—so that the painful bone-on-bone contact is eliminated. Over time, a false joint made of scar tissue and surrounding muscles forms, allowing the dog to move comfortably again. This surgery is most often recommended for dogs with severe hip problems, such as hip dysplasia, fractures, chronic dislocation, or arthritis, when joint repair or replacement isn’t possible or would not provide a good outcome. Benefits and Recovery FHNE can provide excellent pain relief and restore mobility, especially for small to medium-sized dogs and cats. Larger dogs can also do well with the procedure, but they may need a longer recovery period and more intensive physical therapy. After surgery, rest and controlled rehabilitation exercises are important to help your dog regain strength and mobility. Gentle, regular movement helps the false joint form properly. Most pets adapt well over time and can return to an active, pain-free lifestyle. Elbow Surgery Elbow problems are a common cause of front-leg lameness in dogs, especially in medium to large breeds. The elbow joint is made up of three bones—the humerus, radius, and ulna—that must fit together perfectly for smooth, pain-free movement. When the joint doesn’t form properly or becomes damaged, it can lead to pain, stiffness, and arthritis. Common Reasons for Elbow Surgery The most frequent conditions requiring elbow surgery include: Elbow dysplasia: a developmental problem where the bones of the elbow joint don’t align properly, causing uneven pressure and joint damage. Fragmented coronoid process (FCP): a small chip of bone breaks off inside the joint, leading to pain and inflammation. Ununited anconeal process (UAP): a piece of bone in the elbow fails to fuse during growth, resulting in joint instability. Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD): an area of cartilage becomes damaged and separates from the bone surface. Neuro - Orthopaedic Surgery Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVD or IVDD) is a common spinal condition in dogs that affects the discs located between the vertebrae (bones of the spine). These discs act like cushions, providing flexibility and shock absorption during movement. When a disc becomes damaged, it can bulge or rupture, pressing on the spinal cord and causing pain, nerve damage, or even paralysis. Causes and Risk Factors IVD can occur for two main reasons: Degenerative (Type I): The discs gradually lose their cushioning ability and may suddenly rupture. This type is most common in breeds like Dachshunds, Beagles, and Cocker Spaniels. Chronic (Type II): The discs slowly harden and bulge over time, putting pressure on the spinal cord. This type is more often seen in larger breeds and older dogs. Signs to Watch For Symptoms depend on where along the spine the affected disc is located and how severely it’s pressing on the spinal cord. Common signs include: Back or neck pain (crying out, reluctance to move, or arching the back) Weakness or wobbliness in the legs Difficulty walking or standing Loss of coordination or balance In severe cases, loss of bladder or bowel control, or paralysis Diagnosis and Treatment Diagnosis usually involves a physical and neurological exam, followed by imaging such as X-rays, CT scans, or an MRI. Treatment depends on the severity of the condition: Mild cases may respond well to rest, pain relief, anti-inflammatory medication, and physiotherapy. Severe cases—especially those involving loss of mobility—often require surgery to remove the disc material pressing on the spinal cord. Early surgical intervention can greatly improve recovery chances. Recovery and Management After surgery or medical treatment, strict rest and rehabilitation exercises are crucial for healing. Some dogs regain full mobility, while others may have lingering weakness or need long-term management. Keeping your dog at a healthy weight, avoiding jumping from heights, and using ramps instead of stairs can help reduce the risk of recurrence.