FHO Surgery for Dogs: What Coconut Creek Owners Need to Know

Is your dog having trouble getting up, jumping on the couch, or going for the walks they used to love? Hip pain is a common problem in many dogs, especially as they age or after an injury. If your pet is struggling with hip discomfort, you may have heard about FHO surgery for dogs. At Garbizo Animal Clinic, conveniently located at 4400 West Sample Road Suites 148, Coconut Creek, FL 33073, our veterinary team is experienced in diagnosing and treating hip issues using a personalized, compassionate approach. In this guide, we’ll cover what FHO surgery is, how it helps dogs regain comfort and mobility, what to expect before and after the procedure, and how our Coconut Creek team supports your dog’s recovery every step of the way. If you’re searching for answers about fho surgery dog, you’re in the right place—let’s explore how this procedure could restore your dog’s zest for life.

Recognizing Signs of Hip Problems in Dogs

Dogs are experts at hiding pain, but hip discomfort can still leave clues for attentive owners. Common symptoms of hip problems in dogs include difficulty rising from a lying position, limping on one or both hind legs, reluctance to run, jump, or use stairs, and visible muscle loss in the affected leg. You may also notice that your dog is less playful, seems irritable when their hips are touched, or is licking at the hip area more than usual. Some dogs may yelp or cry out during movement, while others simply become more withdrawn or inactive. These changes can be subtle at first, but they often progress over time.

In Coconut Creek and surrounding communities, many pet owners first notice these signs after their dog slips at the park, lands awkwardly, or simply starts moving more stiffly after a long nap. If you observe these or any other changes in your dog’s mobility, it’s important to schedule an appointment with our veterinarians for a thorough orthopedic evaluation. Early detection can make a significant difference in your pet’s quality of life and the range of treatment options available.

Understanding the Causes: Why Hip Issues Happen in Dogs

Hip problems in dogs can develop for several reasons. The most common cause is hip dysplasia, a hereditary condition where the hip joint does not develop properly. Over time, this leads to joint instability, inflammation, and painful arthritis. Other factors that may contribute to hip pain include traumatic injuries such as fractures or dislocations, chronic wear-and-tear from high activity, or complications following other surgeries.

Certain breeds are more prone to hip dysplasia, especially larger dogs like Labradors, German Shepherds, and Golden Retrievers, but dogs of any size or breed can experience hip joint issues. Obesity can also place extra stress on the hips, accelerating the progression of arthritis and discomfort. In some cases, puppies may develop hip problems early in life due to rapid growth, while in other dogs, symptoms appear gradually as they age.

Living in a warm, active community like Coconut Creek means your pet may spend a lot of time outdoors, running and playing on various surfaces. While exercise is vital for overall health, repetitive jumping or twisting motions can sometimes increase the risk of hip injury, especially if there is an underlying predisposition or previous trauma. Our veterinary professionals at Garbizo Animal Clinic are skilled at determining the specific cause of your dog’s hip pain and developing a tailored treatment plan.

FHO Surgery for Dogs: How the Procedure Restores Mobility

When conservative treatments such as medication, weight management, and physical therapy are not enough to relieve your dog’s hip pain, our veterinarians may recommend FHO surgery for dogs as an effective surgical solution. FHO stands for femoral head ostectomy, a procedure in which the damaged ball portion of the hip joint (the femoral head) is carefully removed. This eliminates the painful bone-on-bone contact in the hip, allowing a “false joint” of scar tissue and muscle to form instead.

FHO surgery is often chosen for dogs with severe hip dysplasia, chronic arthritis, or irreparable hip fractures. The procedure is especially successful in small to medium-sized dogs, but can also provide relief for larger breeds under the right circumstances. After the surgery, most dogs experience a significant reduction in pain and a marked improvement in their ability to move, play, and enjoy daily activities.

Our veterinary team at Garbizo Animal Clinic utilizes advanced techniques and gentle anesthesia protocols to ensure the safest possible surgical experience. During your pre-surgical consultation, we will discuss your dog’s unique needs, review diagnostic imaging such as digital radiographs or ultrasounds, and answer any questions you may have. If you would like more information about the procedure itself, visit our dedicated FHO (Femoral Head Ostectomy) Surgery page for an overview of what to expect.

What Happens After FHO Surgery?

Recovery from FHO surgery involves a combination of rest, controlled physical therapy, and regular check-ins with our veterinary professionals. In the first few days after surgery, your dog will need to rest comfortably at home, with pain management medications and careful monitoring for any signs of infection or discomfort. As healing progresses, we will guide you through gentle exercises designed to restore strength and mobility, such as leash walks and passive range-of-motion activities.

Most dogs begin to show improvement in their gait and comfort within a few weeks, with continued progress over several months. Our team will provide ongoing support throughout the recovery process, tailoring rehabilitation recommendations to your dog’s age, size, and activity level. The ultimate goal is to help your pet return to their favorite activities—whether that means playing fetch at the park, climbing stairs with ease, or simply enjoying pain-free snuggles on the couch.

For those interested in a broader overview of orthopedic care, our orthopedic surgical services for pets page details additional procedures and our approach to comprehensive musculoskeletal health.

Supporting Your Dog at Home: Prevention and Care Tips

While not all hip issues can be prevented, there are several steps you can take to support your dog’s joint health and comfort at home. Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial, as excess pounds place added stress on the hips and can worsen existing arthritis. Providing a balanced diet rich in joint-supporting nutrients, offering non-slip surfaces in your home, and encouraging gentle, regular exercise also help keep your dog mobile.

If your dog has already undergone FHO surgery or is recovering from another orthopedic procedure, follow your veterinarian’s post-operative instructions closely. This may include administering prescribed medications, limiting high-impact activity, and attending scheduled recheck appointments. You can also ask our veterinary professionals about cold laser therapy or arthritis management options, which may aid in comfort and healing. For more details on ongoing care, explore our arthritis management options for pets.

If you notice any sudden changes such as increased limping, reluctance to use the affected leg, swelling, or signs of pain after surgery, contact our clinic promptly for guidance.

When to Seek Veterinary Care for Hip Concerns

Timely veterinary care is essential when dealing with hip problems in dogs. You should schedule an appointment if your pet is limping for more than a day or two, showing signs of pain, or having difficulty with normal activities. Immediate veterinary attention is warranted for sudden inability to walk, severe pain, or any traumatic injury such as a fall or car accident. Even if symptoms seem mild, persistent changes in movement, mood, or appetite can signal an underlying orthopedic problem that deserves attention.

At Garbizo Animal Clinic, we encourage you to reach out whenever you have concerns about your dog’s mobility or comfort. Our veterinary team is here to evaluate your pet, discuss all available options—including fho surgery dog—and develop a customized treatment plan that prioritizes your dog’s wellbeing.

Compassionate, Local Care for Your Dog’s Hips in Coconut Creek

If your dog is struggling with hip pain or mobility issues, know that effective solutions are available—and you don’t have to navigate this journey alone. Our veterinarians at Garbizo Animal Clinic in Coconut Creek are dedicated to providing expert guidance and compassionate care, from diagnosis through recovery. Whether you are exploring FHO surgery for dogs or seeking advice about other orthopedic concerns, we are here to answer your questions and support your pet every step of the way.

When searching for a vet near me who understands the unique needs of your pet, look for a clinic that prioritizes individualized treatment, ongoing communication, and a commitment to long-term wellness. We invite you to schedule an appointment with our veterinary professionals by calling (954) 974-1136 or visiting us in person. You can also find more information about our FHO (Femoral Head Ostectomy) Surgery and orthopedic surgical services online.

If you are ready to help your dog regain comfort and mobility, let our team provide the expert care your pet deserves. Contact us today to see if fho surgery dog is the right solution for your canine companion.

This article is intended for educational purposes only and does not replace professional veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized recommendations and care.