Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: AAHA • VCPR • Spay/Neuter

Orthopedics

Term from Veterinary Services industry explained for recruiters

Orthopedics in veterinary medicine focuses on treating bone, joint, and muscle problems in animals. This can include injuries like broken bones and torn ligaments, as well as long-term conditions like arthritis or hip dysplasia. When you see this term in a resume, it means the person has experience with diagnosing and treating animal movement problems. Some veterinarians specialize entirely in orthopedics, while others include it as part of their general practice. Similar terms you might see are "veterinary surgery" or "small animal surgery."

Examples in Resumes

Performed over 200 Orthopedic surgeries on small animals

Assisted in Orthopedics procedures including fracture repairs and joint surgeries

Specialized in Orthopedic rehabilitation for senior pets

Typical job title: "Veterinary Orthopedic Specialists"

Also try searching for:

Veterinary Surgeon Small Animal Orthopedic Surgeon Veterinary Orthopedist Pet Orthopedic Specialist Veterinary Medical Officer - Orthopedics Animal Orthopedic Surgeon

Where to Find Veterinary Orthopedic Specialists

Professional Organizations

Job Boards

Professional Networks

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you handle complex orthopedic cases that might require multiple procedures?

Expected Answer: A senior vet should discuss their experience in planning treatment sequences, managing post-operative care, and coordinating with other specialists when needed. They should mention examples of complicated cases they've handled successfully.

Q: What's your approach to staying current with new orthopedic surgical techniques?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate commitment to continuing education, attendance at conferences, and experience implementing new procedures. Should discuss specific examples of how they've incorporated new techniques into their practice.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What experience do you have with common orthopedic surgeries in small animals?

Expected Answer: Should be able to describe experience with routine procedures like fracture repairs, cruciate ligament surgeries, and hip dysplasia treatments. Should discuss their success rates and patient outcomes.

Q: How do you approach post-surgical care and pain management?

Expected Answer: Should explain their protocol for monitoring recovery, managing pain, and working with vet techs and pet owners to ensure proper healing. Should mention specific pain management strategies they use.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What basic orthopedic conditions can you identify and treat?

Expected Answer: Should be able to discuss common conditions like simple fractures, sprains, and basic joint problems. Should show understanding of when to refer cases to more experienced specialists.

Q: How do you conduct an orthopedic examination?

Expected Answer: Should describe the steps of a basic orthopedic exam, including gait analysis, joint manipulation, and pain assessment. Should understand when to order x-rays or additional tests.