susan hodge, dvm, dacvs-sa | small animal surgery

For pet owners in Kentucky facing the daunting prospect of their beloved animal needing complex surgery, the search for an exceptionally skilled and compassionate veterinary surgeon is paramount. While general veterinarians perform routine procedures, certain conditions require the advanced expertise of a board-certified specialist. In Wilder, KY, Susan Hodge, DVM, DACVS-SA, stands out as a highly respected and sought-after small animal surgeon, providing critical, specialized care that ensures the best possible outcomes for furry family members. This article aims to illuminate the invaluable services offered by Dr. Hodge and her team, highlighting why she is a trusted referral for veterinarians and pet owners across the Bluegrass State.

The designation "DACVS-SA" after Dr. Susan Hodge's name is crucial: it means she is a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons (Small Animal). This signifies that she has completed rigorous post-doctoral training, including a three-year residency, and passed a demanding multi-day board certification exam, making her a specialist in small animal surgery. This level of credentialing assures pet owners of the highest standard of surgical expertise and knowledge.

The quality of care provided by Dr. Hodge and her staff is consistently lauded by grateful clients. As one reviewer shared about their 135 lbs Cane Corso's ACL repair: "On 2/21 Dr. Hodge performed ACL repair surgery on our 3.5 year old, 135 lbs Cane Corso. Dr. Hodge and her staff are kind, professional, and knowledgeable. Roma is on the mend, and her future looks bright." Another attests to her problem-solving skills and honesty: "Dr. Hodge is the best! She helped us with a wound closure issue we were having with our pup. She gave us high/low estimates throughout the ordeal and very honest and direct about her opinions of the healing process. Super friendly and knowledgeable staff. We will be going back here from now on." These testimonials underscore not only her surgical proficiency but also her compassionate approach, clear communication, and the supportive environment fostered by her entire team. For complex surgical needs, Dr. Hodge offers the peace of mind that comes with specialized, expert care.

Dr. Susan Hodge, DVM, DACVS-SA, practices at 11 Beacon Dr, Wilder, KY 41076, USA. This location places her practice within the Greater Cincinnati Veterinary Specialists & Emergency Services facility, making it a part of a larger hub for specialized animal care in Northern Kentucky. Wilder is strategically situated to serve not only the immediate local community but also pet owners throughout Northern Kentucky and the broader Greater Cincinnati area, including parts of Ohio.

Beacon Drive is typically easily accessible from major roadways in the Wilder and Northern Kentucky region, ensuring straightforward navigation for those traveling for specialized consultations or surgical procedures. For pet owners whose primary veterinarian has referred them for advanced surgical care, easy access to a specialist's facility is incredibly important. The ability to reach the clinic efficiently reduces stress for both the pet and their human companions during what can often be a challenging time. Ample parking is usually available at a dedicated veterinary specialty center, further contributing to a smooth and convenient visit. Dr. Hodge's location in Wilder ensures that expert, board-certified surgical care is within practical reach for a significant population of Kentucky pet owners.

As a Board-Certified Small Animal Surgeon (DACVS-SA), Dr. Susan Hodge specializes in advanced surgical procedures for dogs and cats. Her services are typically provided on a referral basis from primary care veterinarians, focusing on conditions that require specialized expertise beyond routine general practice. Her offerings include, but are not limited to:

• Soft Tissue Surgery: Addressing a wide array of conditions involving non-bony or non-joint structures, such as abdominal surgery (e.g., foreign body removal, organ biopsies, tumor excisions), thoracic surgery, oncologic (cancer) surgery, and reconstructive procedures (like wound closure issues, as noted by a client).
• Orthopedic Surgery: Specializing in conditions affecting bones, joints, ligaments, and muscles. This frequently includes:
  • Cruciate Ligament Repair (e.g., ACL repair, TPLO – Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy, as mentioned in client testimonials).
  • Fracture Repair: Surgical stabilization of broken bones using various techniques.
  • Patellar Luxation Repair: Correcting issues where the kneecap slips out of place.
  • Joint Surgeries: Addressing conditions like elbow dysplasia, hip dysplasia (though not a hip replacement, as seen in a testimonial where Dr. Hodge correctly advised against it for a growing pup).
• Neurologic Surgery: Procedures related to the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves, often addressing issues like intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) and spinal compression.
• Advanced Diagnostics for Surgical Planning: Utilizing sophisticated imaging techniques and other diagnostic tools to precisely plan complex surgical interventions.
• Pre-Surgical Consultation: Thorough discussions with pet owners and referring veterinarians to explain complex procedures, potential outcomes, and recovery expectations.
• Post-Operative Care and Management: Providing detailed instructions for at-home care, and potentially overseeing rehabilitation plans, to ensure optimal recovery.
• Pain Management: Comprehensive pain control strategies before, during, and after surgery to ensure patient comfort and facilitate healing.

Susan Hodge, DVM, DACVS-SA, and her practice offer several compelling features and highlights that make her an outstanding choice for specialized veterinary surgical care in Kentucky.

• Board-Certified Surgical Expertise (DACVS-SA): This is the foremost highlight. Being a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons (Small Animal) signifies that Dr. Hodge has undergone extensive, specialized training and passed rigorous examinations, demonstrating a high level of proficiency and knowledge in small animal surgery. This advanced credentialing provides a crucial layer of assurance for pet owners.
• Exceptional Compassion and Professionalism: Repeatedly praised by clients, Dr. Hodge and her staff are described as "kind, professional, and knowledgeable." This combination of top-tier medical skill with genuine empathy is vital when pets are facing complex health challenges.
• Clear and Honest Communication: Clients appreciate Dr. Hodge's direct and honest communication, including providing "high/low estimates throughout the ordeal" and clear opinions on healing processes. She takes the time to explain complex procedures, empowering owners to understand their pet's condition and treatment.
• Successful Outcomes: Testimonials highlight successful surgical outcomes, such as a large Cane Corso "on the mend" after ACL repair and the resolution of a challenging "wound closure issue." This track record of success builds confidence.
• Focus on Patient Well-being: The emphasis on thorough explanations and managing owner expectations indicates a deep commitment to the patient's and owner's overall well-being, not just the surgical procedure itself.
• Supportive Staff: The "super friendly and knowledgeable staff" complements Dr. Hodge's expertise, ensuring a cohesive and positive experience for clients from the moment they interact with the practice.
• Referral-Based Practice: Operating within a larger specialty and emergency veterinary center (Greater Cincinnati Veterinary Specialists & Emergency Services) means she receives referrals for complex cases, ensuring she handles a high volume and variety of challenging surgical scenarios, further honing her skills.

For inquiries about specialized small animal surgical services or for referrals, you can contact Susan Hodge, DVM, DACVS-SA, at her practice in Wilder, KY, through the following details:

Address: 11 Beacon Dr, Wilder, KY 41076, USA

Phone: (859) 572-0560

Mobile Phone: +1 859-572-0560

As a specialized surgical practice, appointments are typically made via referral from your primary care veterinarian. It is highly recommended to have your vet contact Dr. Hodge's office directly to discuss your pet's specific needs and schedule a consultation.

For pet owners across Kentucky, especially those in Northern Kentucky and the Greater Cincinnati area, facing the need for advanced small animal surgery, Susan Hodge, DVM, DACVS-SA, provides an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended solution. The presence of a board-certified veterinary surgeon of Dr. Hodge's caliber in Wilder is a significant asset to the regional pet healthcare landscape.

Her DACVS-SA certification immediately signifies a level of specialized training and expertise that goes beyond general veterinary practice. This is critical for complex soft tissue, orthopedic, and neurologic surgeries, where precision, advanced knowledge, and experience can make all the difference in a pet's recovery and long-term quality of life. The glowing testimonials from clients, praising her kindness, professionalism, clear communication, and successful surgical outcomes, further solidify her reputation as a compassionate and highly effective surgeon.

Being located within the Greater Cincinnati Veterinary Specialists & Emergency Services facility in Wilder also enhances accessibility for referrals and provides a comprehensive, supportive environment for advanced care. For Kentuckians seeking a trusted, expert surgical partner for their beloved dogs and cats, Dr. Susan Hodge offers unparalleled peace of mind, ensuring that even the most challenging medical conditions are met with the highest standard of specialized and caring attention.

susan hodge, dvm, dacvs-sa | small animal surgery

11 Beacon Dr, Wilder, KY 41076, USA