Specialist Surgery for Dogs | Melbourne Dog Clinic
Some dogs require more advanced surgical care beyond routine procedures.
At Melbourne Dog Clinic, we offer a range of specialist surgical procedures performed on-site in collaboration with inhouse specialist surgeon Dr Joycelyn Tran.
This allows your dog to receive advanced care in a familiar, calm, and supportive environment, without the need to travel to an external specialist hospital.
Our approach focuses on:
• careful assessment and planning
• clear communication with families
• gentle handling and patient comfort
• continuity of care before and after surgery
Initial assessment is typically performed during a Consultation with Dr Tran.
Understanding when specialist surgery may be recommended can help guide the next steps.
When Is Specialist Surgery Needed
Most dogs will only ever require routine procedures, however some conditions may benefit from more advanced surgical care.
Specialist surgery is typically recommended when a condition is more complex, requires specialised techniques, or would benefit from additional surgical expertise.
This may include:
• orthopaedic conditions affecting joints, bones, or mobility
• complex or large lump removals
• injuries such as fractures or trauma
• abdominal conditions requiring more advanced surgery
• cases where previous treatment has not resolved the issue
In some situations, early referral for specialist surgery can improve outcomes and support a smoother recovery.
Our team will guide you through whether this type of care is appropriate for your dog and what options are available.
If you are concerned about your dog, we recommend booking a Dog Consultation so we can assess their condition and discuss the most appropriate next steps.
Understanding the types of procedures available can help you feel more informed about your dog’s care.
Types of Specialist Surgery
At Melbourne Dog Clinic, specialist procedures are performed in collaboration with our inhouse specialiast surgeon, Dr Joycelyn Tran, allowing a range of advanced surgeries to be carried out on-site.
Every case is assessed individually, and recommendations are tailored to your dog’s condition, comfort, and overall wellbeing.
Orthopaedic Surgery
Procedures involving bones, joints, and mobility may include:
• cruciate ligament repair (knee stabilisation)
• patella (kneecap) surgery
• fracture repair
• joint stabilisation procedures
These surgeries aim to restore comfortable movement and improve quality of life.
Advanced Soft Tissue Surgery
More complex procedures involving internal organs or soft tissues may include:
• abdominal surgery (e.g. spleen, gastrointestinal tract)
• bladder surgery (such as bladder stone removal)
• wound reconstruction and complex closures
• hernia repairs
Complex Lump & Tumour Removal
Some lumps require more advanced planning or surgical techniques, particularly when:
• they are large or in sensitive locations
• wider margins are required
• reconstruction may be needed following removal
Not all dogs will require specialist surgery, and in many cases, routine procedures are appropriate. Our team will help determine the most suitable approach for your dog.
In situations where a condition is not suitable to be performed at our clinic, we will guide you through referral options to ensure your dog receives the most appropriate care.
Understanding what to expect before and after surgery can help you feel more prepared.
What to Expect with Specialist Surgery
Specialist surgery involves careful planning, coordination, and communication to ensure the best outcome for your dog.
Before Surgery
Your dog will first be assessed during a consultation, where we will:
• examine your dog and review their condition
• discuss whether specialist surgery is recommended
• outline the proposed procedure and expected outcomes
• talk through any risks, costs, and recovery expectations
In some cases, additional tests such as imaging or blood work may be recommended prior to surgery.
Planning & Scheduling
Specialist procedures are coordinated with our inhouse specialist surgeon, Dr Joycelyn Tran, and are scheduled in advance.
Because these surgeries require additional preparation and time, they are not available for online booking. Our team will guide you through the process and help arrange a suitable date.
On the Day
On the day of surgery:
• your dog will be admitted in a calm and low-stress manner
• anaesthesia and monitoring will be carefully managed
• the procedure will be performed with attention to both surgical outcome and patient comfort
• your dog will be supported throughout recovery
We will contact you once your dog is awake and ready to go home.
After Surgery
You will be provided with:
• detailed aftercare instructions
• medications and pain relief
• guidance on activity restriction and recovery
• information about follow-up appointments
Our team remains available to support you and your dog throughout recovery.
For some dogs, additional support prior to their visit may be helpful. You can learn more on our Pre-Visit Calming Support for Dogs page.
→Pre-Visit Calming Support for Dogs
Understanding the benefits of having specialist surgery performed in a familiar environment can help you feel more confident in your dog’s care.
A Familiar and Supportive Environment
One of the benefits of having specialist surgery performed at Melbourne Dog Clinic is that your dog can receive advanced care in a familiar and supportive setting.
For many dogs, visiting a large referral hospital can feel overwhelming. Being treated in a known environment, with a team they may already recognise, can help reduce stress and support a more positive experience.
Our team works closely with our inhouse specialist surgeon, Dr Joycelyn Tran, to ensure continuity of care before, during, and after your dog’s procedure.
This means:
• a consistent approach to handling and patient care
• clear communication throughout the process
• ongoing support from a team who knows your dog
For dogs who may feel anxious, we are also able to incorporate additional support strategies, including pre-visit calming support, to help create a more relaxed experience.
If your dog requires more advanced surgical care, our team will guide you through the process and help determine whether this approach is the right fit.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss your dog’s needs, please contact our team.