Client Testimonials
We began surveying clients about their pets’ recovery process who underwent our QLF™ surgery. Read some of their experiences at different points in the patients’ recovery journey.
“I am an Orthopedic surgeon outside of Boston who has seen the evolution over the last 35 years of cruciate surgery in Humans. From Cast Immobilization to Osteotomy type realignments to finally a more physiologic replacement, I have seen it all. Finally, the approach in humans meets the physiologic load need and because of that people are getting back to high level sports rapidly. After searching for a similar approach in dogs, I found it at the Canine Cruciate Center of New England. Dr. Murtha has developed a more physiologic dynamic approach to fixing this difficult problem.
My dog Dakota is now 5 months post-op, and you could never tell she ever had an injury or surgery. Not only is the surgical approach to this vexing problem expertly done at the Canine Cruciate Center, but the entire staff are first class. They are welcoming, supportive and were there for me and Dakota every step of the way. For all that, I say in the loudest voice possible, THANK YOU ALL.”
Daniel C. Snyder, M.D.
Orthopedic Surgeon at Newton-Wellesley Hospital
Professor of Surgery at Tufts Medical School
Patient “Dakota”
Sandra Stiman, DVM
Veterinarian in Cortlandt Manor, NY
Patient “Rusty”
“I am a veterinarian with 30 years’ experience. Additionally, growing up on a dairy farm and serving as a Peace Corps Volunteer inspired a philosophy where problems were an opportunity waiting for a solution. These “problems” often become an impetus for creative solutions and fresh perspectives. So, when my own beloved retriever was potentially a candidate for cruciate surgery, I remained open minded while researching all the available surgical options. When I first spoke to Dr. Murtha, I was honestly somewhat skeptical, but Dr. Murtha responded to my concerns clearly and honestly. He took the time to share his own journey and how he developed the QLF™ surgical alternative. During our first conversation, he stated that he was not Board Certified, but had been perfecting and refining this innovative cruciate repair procedure for over 30 years.
On our first consultation at NAHAH/Canine Cruciate Center, Covid protocols were still in place and pet owners remained outside. My husband used this opportunity to canvas the parking lot for feedback. What we found was intriguing. I was most interested in larger breed dogs who had received the QLF™ cruciate repair surgery. When questioned, these owners were pleased with the outcome. Based on my clinical observations, I assumed that the dogs I witnessed were in for follow-up from months before. The reality was these dogs were 2 weeks post-op.
The journey with my dog was less straightforward than originally suspected, but eventually I was faced with the decision to select a surgery. As both a veterinarian and a pet owner, I thoughtfully and carefully considered all the surgical options. I ultimately selected the option that I felt would provide not only the best potential for a functioning knee, but also (and most importantly), the best potential for quality of life.
It has been over 6 months since the QLF™ surgery. There have been zero surgical or other complications associated with this procedure. Honestly, my greatest concern has been complying with the post-surgical PT protocols. My dog wanted to start running within 2-3 weeks of the surgery and I needed to restrict his activity to allow for healing and prevent re-injury. Thanks to Dr. Murtha’s QLF™ surgery, my almost 12-year-old beloved retriever cross is happily back on the hiking trails with a fully functional and stable surgically repaired knee.
As a veterinarian I have worked in several clinical veterinary practices. My observations and interactions with the staff at NAHAH/Canine Cruciate Center have been noteworthy in the dedication, compassion and professionalism displayed. The follow-up to the cruciate surgery has been exemplary. I received consistent calls and messages checking in on how all was progressing.
I am exceedingly grateful to Dr. Murtha. I admire his determination and perseverance in developing and refining this procedure. He exemplifies what we as students were extolled on our first day in veterinary school… to “stay amazed” and remain lifelong learners seeking professional growth. Dr. Murtha and his staff are compassionate, dedicated, and knowledgeable professionals. They have given my family the joy of having our “pup” back running alongside us again. I genuinely hope that Dr. Murtha continues to provide this innovative surgical option.”
“I read the material on their website, and it seemed to make a great deal of sense. There would have been a time when I viewed canine ACL surgery as being pretty much the same, with any qualified Orthopedic surgeon, but experience (some bad), has taught me otherwise. With this situation, I did my due diligence and decided Dr. Murtha were the right choice and the QLF™ procedure was Bogie’s best option.
Having been a State Police officer for more than twenty years and then having done another 20 years investigating corporate, white-collar crime, I tend to make quick assessments of people and environments. I had a very good feeling about the people at Canine Cruciate Center. It is difficult (though not impossible) to fake sincerity, but they all seemed to genuinely care about the giant Rottweiler. The people at Canine Cruciate Center called almost every day to check on Bogie’s condition and that was both comforting and reassuring.
The first week saw an amazing transmission. Bogie went from looking like a fighter who was taking a standing eight count, to the inquisitive and playful pup he had always been. The first two weeks after surgery continued to show progress every day. The people at NAHAH seemed genuinely pleased to see Bogie and he appeared equally happy to see them again. To Annette and me it seemed a small miracle how much had transpired in just two weeks, but NAHAH seemed almost matter of fact as to Bogie’s progress. Clearly, they had seen these types of results before.
Unfortunately, I have developed somewhat of an expertise in sizing up surgeons and physicians. My “gut” is usually on the mark in assessing doctors. I liked Dr. Murtha. He was personable, but clearly no-nonsense and his results said it all. I am not in the habit of reviewing anything. Based on our experience, the manner in which we and Bogie were treated and QLF™ surgical results, I would recommend Dr. Murtha without hesitation or reservation.”
Officer John Jacewicz
Retired State Trooper, Connecticut
Patient “Bogie”
Read reviews from different checkpoints throughout the recovery journey from as early as 2 weeks post-op all the way to 5 years.