IMMEDIATE CASE ACCEPTANCE

We accept cases immediately across our internal medicine, neurology,
orthopaedics and soft tissue surgery services.

Orthopaedics

The Specialist-led Orthopaedic Team sees pets that are lame, whether the lameness has been sudden in onset or has progressed to become a more long-standing problem.

We also treat cases of orthopaedic trauma resulting in fracture of bones; pets affected with osteoarthritis; and we are happy to evaluate any suspected musculoskeletal or joint problem.

As a referral service, led by a recognised surgical Specialist and service-dedicated veterinary nurse, we are able to provide a comprehensive range of diagnostic and management options for orthopaedic problems in dogs and cats. We have extensive experience in repairing all types of fracture, in treating developmental and acquired joint diseases, and in spinal surgery.

As part of a multi-disciplinary hospital, we work closely with our specialist anaesthetists to minimise the risks of anaesthesia, and to ensure patient comfort before, during, and after surgery.

Jumping dog (© Lobke Peers)

We recognise that no two cases are identical and approach every pet as an individual, working with the owners to agree on an appropriate diagnostic or treatment plan. When necessary, we also work in association with other specialist services to provide the best possible care for all referred pets.

We provide a full range of veterinary orthopaedic surgical services

Options for fracture management include:

  • Standard and locking bone plates and screws
  • Linear and circular external skeletal fixators
  • Intramedullary fixation
  • Fluoroscopically assisted stabilisation

Other procedures we commonly carry out include:

  • Tibial plateau levelling osteotomy using Synthes locking implants
  • Total hip replacement using BioMedtrix implants
  • Stabilisation of patella and hip luxations
  • Diagnostic and therapeutic arthroscopy
  • Investigation and treatment of hip and elbow dysplasia
  • Surgical neurological procedures

If you are a referring veterinary surgeon and would like to discuss or refer a case, please contact our team. We will aim to reply as soon as possible.

Cruciate disease x-ray

SPECIALIST-LED CARE FOR TPLO (Tibial Plateau Levelling Osteotomy) REFERRALS ​

The most effective surgery for pets suffering with cruciate disease.

All your TPLO cases will be accepted immediately and seen within 48 hours*  ​

We guarantee the same fixed price across all patient weights** ​

Our updated fixed price gives your clients clarity and peace of mind  ​

Our New Price is £4350

Our goal is to support you our referring colleagues and offer our clients clear and transparent pricing.

To help in this endeavour, we are accepting all TPLO referrals and trialling a new way of pricing TPLOs, with the same price regardless of the weight of the patient.*

The new trial price at Veterinary Specialists Scotland is £4350.

TPLO after surgery x-rayThere is no additional cost for TPLO cases seen urgently or if they are a large breed.

When you refer, the following is included:​

  • Consultation   ​
  • Pre and post operative radiographs  on the day of surgery ​
  • Anaesthesia (including routine medications)   ​
  • Surgery (including all implants)  ​
  • Up to 3 days hospitalisation  ​
  • Routine medications (e.g., post operative NSAIDs or paracetamol)

*All cases will be seen via a consultation within 48 hours of referral (Monday to Friday) unless we encounter unforeseen circumstances, in which case the earliest appointment will be offered.

**Terms and conditions apply, available upon request.

 

Testimonials

What our clients say:

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Alastair Kerr profile picture
Alastair Kerr
26 May 2024
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
The best place for great care for you pet.
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karen hamilton
21 May 2024
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Our bernese mountain dog Merlin had issues with his gait and after physio exams and xrays from our own vet we were recommended to get an MRI. We decided to take him to Livingston rather than Glasgow based on reviews and we were not disappointed! The service and professionalism shown to us by all staff and especially Alexandra was unbelievable. She explained everything in layman terms for us so that we could fully understand what was happening with our boy. We arrived so anxious and we left with a full diagnosis and we can now get on with enjoying our boy. Thankyou so much to everyone 💓
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fiona mccormack
11 May 2024
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My dog was referred here by my vet after all other options had been covered. They were amazing and really looked after Buster. Sadly it wasn’t the outcome we wanted but I can’t fault anything about his treatment and the way the staff dealt with us through an incredibly difficult time. We were kept fully informed at all times and everything as very sensitively handled.
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Gayle Mcdowell profile picture
Gayle Mcdowell
25 April 2024
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All the staff are great and take fantastic care of my dog
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Wendy Busby profile picture
Wendy Busby
16 April 2024
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Our beloved dog Dougal was referred to VSS recently in a very poorly state. Tobias, Joni and the wonderful nursing team admitted him for some life saving surgery and critical care. We would have lost Dougal if it had not been for the skills and care of this team. The communication was clear and warm, but also was forthright and honest about Dougals chances. After nearly a week miraculously we got him home. He still needed care in his recovery and after what he went through I cannot quite believe how well he is doing. The updates from the team were just right, his condition explained each time and progress or risks discussed. Follow up caring communication has also been second to none. I would still say the same if the outcome had not been favourable, and wholeheartedly recommend the team that work in this incredible veterinary care service.
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Janka Hudak
12 April 2024
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Our journey with Veterinary Specialists Scotland began when our 8-month-old Papillon, Whisky, suffered a severe fracture to her front leg. The referral to Dr. Joni Viitanen and his team was a turning point during this emergency. From the moment we arrived, the response was both professional and deeply compassionate—they admitted Whisky immediately and made sure she was as comfortable as possible. Dr. Viitanen performed surgery the very next day, and during Whisky’s three-day stay, we felt she was in the best hands. The team was not only exemplary in their medical care but also in providing emotional support, making Whisky’s first time away from home as gentle as possible. They kept us well-informed throughout her treatment, always ready to answer our questions and calm our worries. The news that Whisky had completely healed after just seven weeks was a profound relief. Every staff member we encountered was incredibly supportive, ensuring that all administrative tasks, including the insurance claim, were handled smoothly. We are truly grateful to Dr. Viitanen and the entire Orthopaedic Team for their outstanding dedication. Their blend of professional expertise and heartfelt care made all the difference. We highly recommend Veterinary Specialists Scotland to anyone seeking exceptional care for their pets. Thank you for everything you’ve done for Whisky and for us.
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John McKellar
22 March 2024
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Recently took our dog Sparky to these guys and found the experience from reception staff to veterinary professional care brilliant.
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Bill ferguson
9 March 2024
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Very helpful and professional care team,could not fault any of the help we were given.
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Bethany Rutherford profile picture
Bethany Rutherford
5 March 2024
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My young dog was recently discharged after a long year of treatment at Veterinary Specialists Scotland. After an injury she required a carpal arthrodesis surgery and through no ones fault seemed to hit every bump in the road in the months to follow. The care she received was impeccable and Joni her surgeon was fantastic. During a really stressful and upsetting period of being a dog owner Joni was super helpful and patient. He kept us informed every step of the way. We knew the risks to every surgery and were able to make fully informed decisions about her care. Joni had our full trust and kept us reassured and confident that she would come out the other side with all four legs. I felt Joni and the team here were fully invested in my dogs recovery and wellbeing. We were kept up to date during her stays and kept in contact with after her discharges post treatment. I am glad to say that we are now on the other side after such a worrying year and my wee dog is loving being on the road back to her normal life. Thank you so much to everyone at Veterinary Specialist Scotland and a special thanks to Joni I am so grateful!

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Orthopaedics Facilities

Meet the Orthopaedics Team