Soft Tissue & Orthopedic Pet Surgery in Dacula, GA

Soft tissue procedures we commonly perform:

• Spaying and neutering
• Mass and tumor removal
• Minimally invasive, endoscopically assisted surgery
• Wound repair and other general soft tissue procedures

Orthopedic conditions typically referred to our surgical partners:

• TPLO (tibial plateau leveling osteotomy) for torn ligaments
• Luxating patella repair
• Fracture repair
• Other bone or joint related conditions

This partnership model means you don’t have to go hunting for a separate veterinary orthopedic surgeon on your own. We handle the diagnosis, the referral, and the follow-up care, so you only ever have one number to call.

What Soft Tissue Surgery Services Does Our Team Provide?

Minimally Invasive and Endoscopic Surgery

Not every procedure needs a large incision. Using flexible and rigid endoscopy, our team can diagnose and treat many conditions through smaller, more precise access points. That typically means less pain, a shorter hospital stay, and a faster return to normal life for your pet.

Common Soft Tissue Procedures We Perform

Our pet surgeons handle a broad range of soft tissue cases, including:

• Spay and neuter surgery
• Removal of masses, tumors, and cysts
• Foreign body removal
• Minimally invasive abdominal procedures

Dr. Martinez-Jimenez has practiced veterinary medicine since 2002, when he graduated from the College of Veterinary Medicine of Zaragoza in Spain. He holds a master’s degree in wild animal health and brings years of experience treating household pets alongside exotic and wildlife species. That range of experience means our surgical team is comfortable handling a wide variety of cases, not just the routine ones.

How Do We Support Pets Who Need Orthopedic Surgery?

Some orthopedic conditions can be managed with medication, rest, and physical therapy. Others need surgery to give your pet lasting relief. Our team uses PennHip and OFA evaluations, along with advanced diagnostic imaging, to determine the right course of action before any surgery is scheduled.

If your dog needs ACL surgery for a torn cruciate ligament, or if a small breed is showing signs of a luxating patella, our team guides you through the entire process, from the first exam to the referral to recovery. If surgery is the best option, we coordinate directly with our surgical partners and stay involved in your pet’s care the whole way through, including pre-surgical bloodwork and post-operative rechecks.

Conditions That May Require Orthopedic Surgery

• Torn cruciate ligament (ACL)
• Luxating patella
• Fractures
• Hip dysplasia and other joint conditions

How Much Does Pet Orthopedic or Soft Tissue Surgery Cost?

The cost of pet surgery depends on several factors: the type of procedure, the diagnostics involved, your pet’s age and health, and whether the case requires a specialist. Soft tissue procedures performed in our clinic and orthopedic cases handled through our surgical partners are priced differently, since each involves its own diagnostic workup and level of care.

The most reliable way to understand what your pet’s procedure will cost is to schedule an exam. Our team will walk you through the recommended diagnostics, the surgical plan, and a clear estimate before anything is scheduled, so there are no surprises.

How Long Does It Take for a Dog to Recover From Soft Tissue Surgery?

Most dogs recover from soft tissue surgery within a week to ten days, though the exact timeline depends on the procedure. During this window, your dog will need restricted activity, a properly fitted e-collar to prevent licking at the incision, and any prescribed medication given exactly as directed. Most pets return to normal energy and appetite within a few days, with full healing of the incision site following shortly after.

How Long Does It Take for a Dog to Recover From Orthopedic Surgery, Like a TPLO or Luxating Patella Repair?

Orthopedic recovery takes considerably longer than soft tissue recovery, often six to eight weeks before a dog returns to normal activity, and sometimes longer for more involved procedures. Strict crate rest, controlled leash walks, and a slow, structured return to activity are typically part of the plan. Because this recovery is managed in partnership with the surgical team, our practice stays closely involved for rechecks and guidance every step of the way.

Does My Pet Need to Stay Overnight After Surgery?

It depends on the procedure. Many soft tissue surgeries allow pets to go home the same day, once they’re alert and stable after anesthesia. More involved procedures, including most orthopedic surgeries, often require overnight monitoring to manage pain and watch for early signs of complications. Our team will let you know exactly what to expect before the day of surgery, so you can plan ahead.

What Are the Signs My Dog or Cat Needs Surgery?

Some signs are obvious, others build slowly over time. Contact our team if you notice any of the following:

• A new lump or mass, or one that’s growing or changing
• Limping, favoring a leg, or reluctance to jump or climb stairs
• Difficulty urinating or visible blood in the urine
• A wound that isn’t healing despite home care
• Sudden changes in appetite, energy, or behavior

If something feels off, it’s always worth a call. Catching a problem early often means a simpler, less invasive path to treatment.

How Do I Care for My Pet After Surgery at Home?

Recovery at home is just as important as the surgery itself. Here’s what most pets need:

• A quiet, confined space away from stairs and other pets
• Prescribed medication given on schedule, exactly as directed
• An e-collar or recovery suit to prevent licking or chewing at the incision
• Daily monitoring of the incision for redness, swelling, or discharge
• A follow-up visit to confirm healing is on track

Our team sends every pet parent home with clear, written instructions, and we’re always available if something doesn’t look right.

Do I Need a Referral to See a Veterinary Surgeon, or Can I Book Directly?

You don’t need a referral to get started. You can book directly with our team for an exam, and we’ll determine the right path from there. For soft tissue procedures, that often means scheduling surgery right in our clinic. For orthopedic cases, we handle the coordination with our surgical partners ourselves, so you never have to track down a referral on your own.

Why Families Trust Hog Mountain Animal Hospital

Since 1996, our practice has grown around one simple idea: every pet deserves to be treated like family. Dr. Martinez-Jimenez brings a rare combination of traditional veterinary training and a deep background in exotic and wildlife medicine, which means our team is comfortable with more than just the usual cases. Our staff works together to make sure every visit, surgical or otherwise, feels personal, honest, and unhurried.