Orthopedic Veterinary Surgeons

Provide Expert Treatment for Your Pet

Dr. Jim Turpel treats injuries of bones and joints incorporating the latest technologies, equipment and methodologies.

Back in 1993, Dr Jim Turpel graduated from the Ontario Veterinary College and has since pursued various interests – particularly orthopedics and advanced soft tissue surgery – in the field of veterinary medicine. To say he is widely experienced and knowledgeable in the field of surgery is an understatement.

Over the last 23 years, Dr. Turpel has successfully performed more than 2000 orthopedic procedures involving Cranial Cruciate Ligament (CCL) injuries, patellar luxation, hip disease, amputations, OCD lesions, and simple to complex fractures.

At Upper Canada Animal Hospital Dr. Turpel offers your pet a number of top quality orthopedic services including:


Orthopedic Veterinary Surgeons in Niagara

  • Cranial cruciate ligament tears   
  • Knee injuriesHip Dysplasia     
  • Patella luxations
  • Elbow disease
  • Shoulder injuries
  • Fracture Repairs

Cranial Cruciate Ligament (CCL) Ruptures &Tibial Tuberosity Advancement (TTA)

Dr. Jim Turpel is known in the Niagara region for his keen interest in orthopedic veterinary surgery. Up to 80% of the veterinary orthopedic surgeries we perform at Upper Canada Animal Hospital focus on Cranial Cruciate Ligament tears (CCL).  Here’s what you need to know as a pet owner:

CCL Tears

  • CCL tears are the number one cause of serious hind lameness in dogs.  These tears can occur suddenly or gradually.
  • With a CCL tear many patients initially hold up their leg for 1-3 days, followed by a moderate improvement in lameness that worsens with increased activity and time.
  • Factors that contribue to CCL injury include obesity, breed, activity type and activity level.
  • CCL tears are an extremely painful condition.
  • If a CCL tear is left untreated, serious long term complications typically  occur, including further damage to joint structure, pain and arthritis.
  • The vast majority of patients with a CCL tear require surgery.
  • Our surgical outcome is excellent in approximate 95% of patient cases.
  • Our definition of success includes a return to normal painfree activity.
  • Treatment for small less active dogs:  Typically involves extracapsular techniques to stabilize the knee, however other factors may result in a TTA recommendation.

Your dog’s well-being is very important to us and we provide excellent care. Our team is skilled in understanding the numerous orthopedic conditions your pets may face. Our hospital is designed for comfort and a family-friendly environment.

For a detailed look at Dr. Turpel’s surgical background please see his biography.

Contact us today to discuss your pet’s treatment plan and surgery with our orthopedic veterinary surgeons.