Success Stories

Grover, a cute 14 year old poodle, had a huge mass on his foot. Fortunately, the biopsy came back benign. About 6 weeks after surgery, his owner JF sent this incredible email.

“Dear Dr. Zeltzman and Staff:

Several years ago, Grover developed a small, cyst-like growth between his toes. It was diagnosed as a benign trichoblastoma (basal cell tumor) and was successfully removed. However, a tiny remnant must have remained, as the tumor returned three years later—this time much larger and growing just as quickly. A biopsy confirmed it was still benign, but its location posed a serious challenge.

Because the skin on a dog’s foot is so tight, multiple veterinarians and soft tissue surgeons explained that removing the tumor would leave an open wound they would be unable to close. Given the tumor’s size and placement on top of his foot, each specialist I consulted told me the same devastating news: the only option was to amputate Grover’s entire leg from the shoulder down.

As the tumor grew, it began to ulcerate, requiring constant care and preventing Grover from enjoying his favorite activity—his daily walks at the park. After consulting with 6 highly skilled veterinarians, I was heartbroken with the only option as amputation for a benign tumor. Grover is 14 years old, still full of life, and loves walking and hiking. Amputation felt like such an extreme measure considering there was no cancer, but I was repeatedly told it was the only way.

Then I found Dr. Phil Zeltzman. When he called me after reviewing photos of Grover’s foot, I braced myself for yet another recommendation for amputation. Instead, Dr. Zeltzman told me something I could hardly believe—he thought he could remove the tumor without amputating Grover’s leg or foot. I was in shock. I probably screamed something in delightful surprise.

True to his word, Dr. Zeltzman successfully removed Grover’s trichoblastoma. The pathology report confirmed that the tumor was benign and it had been completely excised. From our very first conversation to post-surgical care, Dr. Zeltzman was incredibly thorough. He called me multiple times before and after surgery, ensuring I was well-prepared for Grover’s recovery. He even had me watch an instructional video and ensure that I set up a proper recovery space beforehand.

The entire LRVSS team went above and beyond. Grover stayed overnight after surgery, where a dedicated nurse monitored him and sent me updates and photos. When I picked him up, I was given an organized folder with detailed spreadsheets, weekly planners for medication schedules, and clear post-op instructions. As a thoughtful touch, the team even presented Grover with a Certificate of Bravery, and signed his folder with heartfelt messages from each staff member.

I cannot begin to express my gratitude to Dr. Zeltzman and his team. Their expertise, dedication, and compassion saved Grover’s foot, leg, and overall quality of life. Thanks to this life-changing surgery, Grover is back to doing what he loves most.”

Despite postop complications related to the infection, his super dedicated owner EM writes, 4 months after surgery:

“Soos (…) is doing really well! He, out of all 3 of the cats in my house, is by far the most energetic and loving. He spends most of his time running around the house and playing with his toys with no physical problems. He likes to play with the other two cats as well. Thank you again for everything you’ve done for Soos!! He is such a happy little guy now. thanks to you. I appreciate everything you do as a vet.”

CALLIE, “DOING SO GOOD” AFTER HER LEG AMPUTATION

Callie, an 11 year old Border Collie mix, had a tumor removed “elsewhere” 2 years ago. Unfortunately it came back – with a vengeance. Our best option was to amputate the leg. A few hours after surgery, Callie stood up and walked!

Her owner SS writes:

“Callie is doing so good with the loss of her leg, thank you Dr. Zeltzman for making it possible for us to enjoy her longer than we expected. Thank you to the great staff and all the care they provided for her.“

HOWIE, LIKE A MIRACLE AFTER A UNIQUE SURGERY

Howie, a 3 year old cat, had been regurgitating after every meal for 6 months.
After all kinds of test, including a CAT scan, a “scope” and a swallowing test (fluoroscopy),
He was eventually diagnosed with cricopharyngeal dysphagia, i.e. difficulty swallowing, caused by issues with the throat muscles.
Interestingly, this is a rare condition in the dog, but to our knowledge, never described in cats.

His owner MK writes:

“Our vet recommended probably about 10 hospitals in NJ. They either did not answer or rejected us. Then a hospital in NYC told us that the surgery could be done that day and it was an emergency. We got there just to be denied and were told that we should get him a feeding tube or put him down. The so-called top hospital can’t even take us. A hospital in Philly said we would have to wait for 2 months for a consult!

Distraught and disgusted, we reached out to LVRSS on Saturday. By Monday, Kat said they’d be happy to schedule us the next morning (Tuesday). I didn’t think anything of it because my hopes were crushed.

Dr. Zeltzman and Dr. Baia came out and said “we can’t explain why people have failed you in the past. This is extremely rare and we’re not magicians, but we want to help you – today”.  They even told us that they researched and this would be the first documented case.

Since surgery, Howie is doing great. This was like a miracle. He is eating great.

We are so thankful for LVRSS.
Thank you again from the bottom of our hearts.”

A SWEET AND SOUR EMAIL ABOUT BRODI

This story, even though it ends sadly, is still a huge success story in my mind. Brodi, a 14 year old miniature poodle, had a gigantic tumor on his chin & bottom lips. Removing it required some serious reconstructive plastic surgery (“skin flap”). Then, fortunately, the lab confirmed the mass was benign (basal cell tumor).

2 years after surgery, his owner LGM writes:
“It is with a broken heart that I wanted to let you know that we had to put Brodi down last month. He was struggling with doggie dementia, but he had 2 great years thanks to you and your staff. He lived a full and happy life. He would have been 16 this November. Just wanted to thank you again!”

KALIA FLEW FROM MEXICO FOR HER TPLO

Kalia, a 5 year old mix breed dog, flew all the way from Mexico to have TPLO surgery to address a torn ACL (Her first TPLO, done elsewhere, didn’t go very smoothly).

Her owner TS writes:

“This surgery and recovery have been an outstanding success compared to her first TPLO on her left leg. We want to thank you and your staff for everything you have done for her.”

SPECTACULAR CARE DURING BANDIT’S TPLO

Bandit, a 9 year old Husky, had TPLO surgery to address a torn ACL. Two weeks after surgery, his owner DB writes:

“Bandit thanks you all for the wonderful care he received! He was a scared little boy who was given attention from when we arrived until I picked him up the next morning. I am highly impressed by everyone who took care of Bandit. Dr. Baia took time to explain the procedure and after care, and answered all questions. The video was also very helpful. The vet techs fussed over Bandit to make him feel calm and special. They kept me updated at all times and I enjoyed getting the photo of him the night he spent at the facility. I knew he was in good hands. Everything was explained in detail. I felt better after being overwhelmed looking at everything. All of the little extra special acts of kindness are appreciated. Thank you all for Bandit’s spectacular care!“

“THE BEST YEARS OF OUR LIVES” AFTER MADELINE’S SURGERY

But her story is quite extraordinary, and are her owners.
You can read about her full story here:
https://www.drphilzeltzman.com/blog/how-madeline-got-a-new-lease-on-life/

Short version: Madeline had a cancerous tumor preventing her from peeing. We removed the mass and, anticipating it would come back, we placed a special tube in her bladder to empty her urine.
This allowed her to be a 4-year cancer survivor.  

Her owner BE writes:
“We want to thank you for everything you have done for Madeline. You truly are a godsend as you gave us the most valuable thing in the world, time. Madeline lived 11 years. You gave us 4 of the best years of our lives. We cannot thank you enough because she was our world. We are so appreciative of everything you do, not only for Madeline but for every pet in need. Although today is extremely sad, we know Madeline lived life to the fullest. We want you to know that your selfless work does not go unnoticed.”

Dozer, a 7 year old Lab, had ACL issues. He had his first TPLO in 2020. Exactly 3 years later, the had a TPLO on the opposite side. 4 months after his second surgery, his owner ML writes:

“Dozer is doing great. It was a rough winter with him, because he likes the cold, and I don’t, but we got through it. He has been doing great on his long leash walks.

Thank you, Kat and everyone that cared for our Dozer.”

Bandit, a sweet 6 year old mini Aussie, had surgery to remove a cancerous mass in the intestine. His owner CB writes:

“Bandit runs around like normal, wants to play, enjoys looking for rabbits (and chipmunks and birds) in the yard.

Communication was good at Lehigh Regional, both verbal and written information. I knew what was going on and my questions were answered. The follow-up was appreciated. Although Bandit had to have surgery (who wants that!), the surgery was a success and prevented future problems. Glad you were there.”

MARLIE, A LARYNGEAL PARALYSIS PATIENT, TURNS 15!!!

Marlie, a 13 year old Lab, was suffocating because of laryngeal paralysis. We performed surgery (tie back) to allow her to breathe again. Two and a half years later, her amazing owner JP writes:

“I just wanted to give you a happy update! You performed lar par surgery on our Marlie two and a half years ago. Today we are thrilled to be able to celebrate her 15th birthday!

Thank you again for these extra years with her. She is truly the smartest and kindest pup I have ever known. And so loved. She’s definitely showing her age now, but breathing easy. Each day is a gift.

Thank you for saving her for us. We will never forget what you and your amazing staff did for us! You are all the BEST!”

FREYA CELEBRATES HER ANNIVERSARY WITH GRACE

Freya, a 4 year old, 60 lb Lab mix, had severe hip dysplasia. She had 2 surgeries (FHOs) to deal with it.
About 18 months after her first surgery, and exactly 1 year after the 2nd, her owner JK writes: 

“Wanted to share this photo with you, Freya jumped up here today on her own. I’d say it’s about 3.5’ high. I didn’t think she’d ever be able to scale it again post surgery but she did, and I saw the twinkle of confidence in her eye right before she jumped. Look how proud she is! She’s doing so great! “

MECO IS BACK TO HUNTING AFTER HIS TPLO

Meco, a now 3 year old Lab, had TPLO surgery to address a torn ACL. About a year later, his owner MS writes: 

“Almost exactly one year ago Meco had ACL surgery. Not only was it hard on Meco, but it was difficult for me because we missed out on pheasant season. But with lots of patience, healing, love, and some amazing veterinarians, we were back out as a team and crushed it! He was a natural, flushed 8 birds. I was a little rusty with the shooting but was able to bring some some dinner! I would like to thank Lehigh Regional Veterinary Surgical Specialty and White Haven Veterinary Hospital for all their staff and Doctors to get us back to the fields.”

Ellie, a 5 year old Lab, had 2 TPLO surgeries to address tears in both her ACLs, 6 months apart. Amazingly, 11 years later, her owner NG writes: 

“You always remain in our hearts. You skilfully performed the TPLO procedure on Ellie -twice – with excellent results. You provided her with an amazing quality of life. She lived past 16 years. Always grateful.”

LUKAS, LIVING HIS BEST LIFE AFTER ELBOW SURGERY

Lukas, a 6 month old German shepherd, had elbow surgery to remove a big piece of bone (“UAP”, aka elbow dysplasia). 11 years after surgery, his owner ST writes:

“It’ll be almost 11 years since you did Lukas’ elbow. And he’s doing tremendous with it. It’s just his hips that we are dealing with now. But he is living his best life at 11 1/2. For that I am eternally grateful to you.”

AMAZING RECOVERY FROM TPLO SURGERY

Meco, a 2 year old Lab, had TPLO surgery to address a torn ACL.
Almost a year later, his owner MS writes:

“Thank you and your amazing staff for taking care of our pup and an amazing recovery from TPLO surgery.”

Rocket, a 9 month old kitten, had a hip fracture. It was addressed with a surgery called an FHO (Femoral Head Ostectomy). One year after surgery, his owner LS writes:

“Rocket is doing AMAZING! Lives up to his name zooming around this house! He also continues to do his leg stretches!

Thanks again for all you’ve done for him!

He definitely has not skipped a beat and there is no other team I’d trust with my fur babies!”

Maximus, a 1 year old, 125 lb Great Pyrenees mix, had massive drooling. It goes with the breed, but it was just too much for his owners. He had surgery of the lips (twice) to create a “dam” and allow him to swallow his own saliva.

One month after surgery, his owner AA writes:

“All is well. He recovered very well and we are happy with the results. I would have to say 95% improvement. We are all extremely happy. Thank you for helping us and putting up with our not so co-operative pooch. Thank you all again.”

FROM SUFFOCATING TO BUBBLY AND GOOFY – EVE HAD LARYNGEAL PARALYSIS

Eve, a 10-year-old Lab, was suffocating and panting because of laryngeal paralysis. She had a tie-back surgery and recovered well. Her owner PD writes:

“Eve is doing amazing! (…)

Earlier this week, I let all of the dogs out for their morning potty. Beau & Penni ran to the back fence with Eve close behind them. They smelled critters in the field. The 3 of them RAN back and forth across the back yard 3 or 4 times… Eve was the last to come back to the deck and she was NOT panting at all! I was shocked!!

Yesterday, we went on a group walk for the first time since her surgery. She did soooo good. Panted a bit during the walk, but NO panting once we got back to the car.

She is absolutely bubbly and goofy! When we come home, she actually does the happy bouncing/turning thing that some dogs do.

I have learned that Eve is a “panter.” She pants when upset, nervous, excited, happy… But I remind myself of what you told me… As long as she recovers quickly, we should be OK.”

GRANPA BRODI GETS A NEW CHIN

Brodi, a 14 year old miniature poodle, had a big mass on his chin. After it was removed, his owner LM writes:

“My overall experience was great. Everyone was very nice, helpful and professional! The surgeon did a great job! All of which are hard to find nowadays! Thank you!”

COMMENTS FROM A REFERRING VET

I have referred my patients to Dr. Zeltzman for about 7 years for specialty surgeries. He is an experienced, reliable and companionate surgeon, who I trusted to perform surgery on my own dog. I highly recommend him and his team to take care of your pets!

DOUBLE TPLOS FOR SOPHIE

Sophie, a 2-year-old Pit mix, had a TPLO to address a torn ACL, then a second one of the other side. Her owner AH writes:

“Our 2-year-old Pitbull/Boxer mix Sophie tore her right CCL last year. I was so nervous what the future would look like for her since she was so active. I had received information from the emergency vet I went to about Dr. Zeltzman and his team, so I gave him a call. Dr. Zeltzman returned my call himself and asked me to tell him about my sweet Sophie and what had happened. He then sent me in the direction of his assistant, Kat who was just as caring. She explained everything in great detail about what to expect in the coming weeks ahead. I could call her with any questions or concerns I had. After repairing her right leg, we noticed her left CCL had also torn which is common with these types of tears.
I’m so glad that for both of the surgeries she was with Dr. Zeltzman and his team. They are angels and I couldn’t have asked for a better surgeon for our girl. With the guidance of Zeltzman she healed perfectly. He set the expectation that we would get her “as close to normal” as possible as long as we followed his instructions. I’m so glad we did. She is back to being active and doing what she loves. She is now 4 years old and still has the zoomies and plays with her fur cousins.
I can’t thank Dr. Zeltzman and his team enough for all they did for our girl.”

A ROYAL STORY: “SMARTEST MOVES I’VE MADE”

Royal, a 3-year-old Greyhound, was facing amputation when I met her. His owner JK writes:

“I adopted Royal, a retired racing greyhound, in 2011, at age 3. She’d broken her knee in a race collision with another dog. She had surgery to repair the break but no physical therapy to strengthen the leg. Shortly after I adopted her, she stopped using that leg. Two veterinarians recommended amputation, as she could not put weight on it at all and carried the leg high against her right side.

I consulted with Dr. Zeltzman, who recommended stem cell therapy as an alternative to amputation. In February of 2012, Dr. Zeltzman performed the stem cell procedure. As you can see from the video, just a few weeks later, Royal was walking normally on all four legs. She’s now 14 and, although she has some arthritis pain, she’s still using all four legs.

https://www.facebook.com/janine.kressler/videos/3355120442941/?

Consulting with Dr. Zeltzman was one of the smartest moves I’ve ever made.”