What to Expect During FHO Surgery for Pets

When a beloved pet begins to limp, avoid play, or struggles to get comfortable, it can be both worrying and confusing for any pet owner. If your veterinarian has recommended a Femoral Head Ostectomy (FHO) surgery, you likely have many questions about the procedure, recovery, and how to best support your companion through the healing process. At Garbizo Animal Clinic, located at 4400 West Sample Road Suites 148, Coconut Creek, FL 33073, our veterinary team understands the importance of clear guidance and compassionate care when your pet faces orthopedic challenges.

This guide will walk you through every stage of FHO surgery for pets, from recognizing the signs that signal a need for this procedure to understanding what happens during surgery, what recovery entails, and how our team supports your pet every step of the way. We will also discuss local considerations for pet orthopedic surgery in Coconut Creek and surrounding communities, so you know what to expect from your local veterinary professionals. If you've been searching for a “vet near me” who provides advanced orthopedic solutions, you are in the right place.

To learn more about the specifics of FHO procedures and how they are performed by our experienced veterinary team, you can also visit our detailed FHO (Femoral Head Ostectomy) Surgery page.

Recognizing the Signs That Your Pet May Need FHO Surgery

Early intervention is key to a successful outcome, so it is crucial to understand when your pet might benefit from FHO surgery. This procedure is commonly recommended for pets—most often dogs and cats—who are experiencing pain, reduced mobility, or lameness due to hip problems. Signs to watch for include noticeable limping, difficulty rising or jumping, reluctance to play, decreased appetite, or changes in behavior that suggest discomfort. In some pets, you might observe muscle loss in the affected leg or hear a clicking sound from the hip area during movement.

Other subtle clues can include a pet shifting weight away from the painful limb, avoiding stairs, or showing irritability when the hip is touched. If you notice these symptoms and you live in Coconut Creek or the surrounding areas, seeking timely veterinary care can help ensure the best possible outcome. With advanced pet orthopedic surgery in Coconut Creek available at Garbizo Animal Clinic, our veterinarians can provide a thorough evaluation and help you determine if FHO surgery is the right choice for your pet.

Understanding Why FHO Surgery Is Needed

Femoral Head Ostectomy surgery is often advised when a pet suffers from severe hip joint disease or trauma that cannot be effectively managed with medication or less invasive therapies. Common causes include hip dysplasia, where the hip joint fails to develop properly; fractures involving the femoral head or acetabulum; chronic dislocation of the hip that cannot be stabilized; and painful arthritis that limits quality of life.

These conditions may result from genetic predisposition, traumatic injury, or degenerative joint disease. Some pets may develop complications after a previous injury or surgery that lead to ongoing pain and reduced function. FHO surgery involves removing the head and neck of the femur, which eliminates the bone-on-bone contact causing pain and allows the body to form a “false joint” of scar tissue. This approach is especially effective in smaller dogs and cats, as well as pets that are otherwise healthy but have not responded to other treatments.

Locally, the warm and active lifestyle in Coconut Creek and surrounding communities means pets are often running, jumping, and playing outdoors, which can unfortunately increase the risk of orthopedic injuries. Our veterinary team is experienced in evaluating and treating these cases, offering both advanced diagnostics and compassionate guidance every step of the way.

What Happens During FHO Surgery for Pets

When your pet is scheduled for FHO surgery at Garbizo Animal Clinic, you can expect a comprehensive process designed to maximize safety and comfort. Prior to surgery, our veterinarians will conduct a complete pre-anesthetic assessment, including bloodwork, digital radiographs, and a physical exam to confirm the diagnosis and ensure your pet is a good candidate for the procedure. We take the time to explain the entire process and address any questions or concerns you may have.

During the surgery, your pet is placed under general anesthesia. The surgeon carefully removes the femoral head and neck while preserving important muscle attachments. This eliminates the source of pain associated with damaged or diseased hip joints. Throughout the procedure, advanced monitoring equipment is used to track your pet’s vital signs, and pain management protocols are in place to minimize discomfort.

After surgery, your pet is closely monitored as they wake up and begin the initial phase of recovery. Our veterinary professionals provide detailed updates and personalized instructions for post-operative care. Recovery from FHO surgery for pets generally involves a combination of rest, controlled activity, physical therapy, and pain management. With the right support, most pets regain excellent function and enjoy a renewed quality of life. For more detail on the surgical process and the expertise involved, you can visit our Orthopedic Surgery services page.

What to Expect Post-Surgery: Immediate and Long-Term Recovery

The first few days after FHO surgery are focused on managing pain, preventing infection, and ensuring your pet is comfortable. You may notice some swelling or bruising at the incision site, which is normal. Our veterinarians will prescribe pain relief medications and may recommend cold laser therapy or other supportive treatments to speed healing.

As your pet begins to feel better, gradual reintroduction of gentle movement is important to encourage muscle strength and prevent joint stiffness. Physical rehabilitation exercises, which may include controlled leash walks or at-home range of motion activities, will be outlined by your veterinary team. Most pets show significant improvement within a few weeks, although full recovery can take up to several months, especially in cases where muscle mass was lost before surgery.

Our approach is always personalized, taking into account your pet’s age, activity level, and specific needs. Follow-up visits are scheduled to monitor healing and adjust the recovery plan as needed. Throughout this process, our team at Garbizo Animal Clinic is always available to answer questions and provide reassurance.

Supporting Your Pet at Home After FHO Surgery

Your role in your pet’s recovery is just as important as the surgery itself. At home, your pet will need a quiet, comfortable space to rest with easy access to food, water, and their favorite bedding. Limiting jumping, running, and rough play is essential during the first several weeks. Our veterinarians will give you a tailored activity plan, including timelines for gradually increasing exercise.

Steps you can take to aid recovery include administering all prescribed medications as directed, monitoring the incision for redness or discharge, and keeping your pet’s environment clean and hazard-free. Encouraging gentle movement, such as short leash walks, helps promote proper healing and muscle development. If your pet is hesitant to use the affected leg, our team can recommend specific techniques or exercises to build confidence and strength.

Should you notice any difficulties—such as persistent swelling, loss of appetite, or changes in behavior—it is important to contact our veterinary professionals promptly.

When to Seek Professional Veterinary Care

While most pets recover well from FHO surgery with proper support, certain warning signs indicate a need for immediate veterinary attention. These include severe or worsening pain, refusal to bear weight on the leg, excessive swelling, discharge or bleeding from the incision, fever, or any sign of systemic illness such as vomiting or lethargy. If you observe any of these signs, please contact our veterinary team right away for guidance.

Additionally, if your pet’s recovery seems delayed or you have concerns about their mobility, a follow-up examination allows us to reassess healing and make any necessary adjustments to the care plan. Early intervention can prevent complications and help ensure your pet returns to their favorite activities as soon as possible. For urgent surgical needs or complications, our Emergency Surgery services are available to provide the necessary care.

Why Choose Garbizo Animal Clinic for FHO Surgery in Coconut Creek

Choosing the right veterinary professionals for your pet’s orthopedic care is one of the most important decisions you can make. At Garbizo Animal Clinic, our experienced veterinarians offer a full spectrum of pet orthopedic surgery in Coconut Creek, including FHO procedures, advanced diagnostics, and post-surgical rehabilitation. We are dedicated to tailoring every treatment plan to the unique needs of your pet, ensuring compassionate, individualized care at every stage.

Our clinic’s convenient location at 4400 West Sample Road Suites 148, Coconut Creek, FL 33073 makes us easily accessible to families in Coconut Creek and surrounding communities. Whether you are searching for a “quality vet near me” or specifically need pet orthopedic surgery services near you, our team is here to help.

Take the Next Step: Schedule Your Pet’s Evaluation Today

If you believe your pet may benefit from FHO surgery or you have questions about orthopedic care, we encourage you to reach out to our veterinary team. At Garbizo Animal Clinic, our goal is to provide the highest level of care for every patient, supporting you and your pet from the initial diagnosis through recovery and beyond.

To schedule an appointment or learn more about our orthopedic expertise, call us at (954) 974-1136 or visit us at 4400 West Sample Road Suites 148, Coconut Creek, FL 33073. Our veterinarians are proud to be your trusted “vet near me” for all aspects of pet orthopedic surgery in Coconut Creek and to serve the greater community with compassion and expertise. For more information about the FHO procedure and recovery, you can also explore our FHO (Femoral Head Ostectomy) Surgery information page.

Your pet’s journey to a pain-free, active life starts with a caring team you can rely on. We look forward to supporting your family every step of the way.

This blog is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian regarding your pet’s specific needs and health concerns. For more information on FHO surgery for pets or to request an appointment, contact Garbizo Animal Clinic today.