Orthopaedic Surgery
Orthopedic conditions can significantly impact your pet’s quality of life, making movement painful and limiting their ability to run, jump, and play. Veterinary orthopedic surgery focuses on diagnosing and treating issues affecting the bones, joints, ligaments, and muscles. Whether your pet is suffering from a congenital condition, arthritis, a fracture, or a ligament tear, Dr Richard provides advanced treatment options to restore mobility and reduce discomfort.
Dr Richard utilizes cutting-edge techniques, including minimally invasive procedures, joint replacements, and fracture repairs, to ensure the best outcomes for your pet. He prioritises a comprehensive approach, from pre-surgical diagnostics and pain management to rehabilitation and recovery support. With expert care and state-of-the-art surgical solutions, he helps pets regain strength, stability, and a pain-free life.

Orthopaedic Surgeon
Richard completed his veterinary degree from Massey University in New Zealand in the early 90s and after a year in practice travelled to the UK to complete an internship at the University of Bristol Vet School Langford, and subsequently worked in clinical positions for the Royal Veterinary College, London and UVC Dublin, as well as time in clinical practice before returning down under to a clinical posting at the University of Sydney Veterinary Centre Camden (UVCC) for 3 years.
In 2006 Richard returned to New Zealand with his wife and took up a Lectureship and clinical surgery position at the Massey University Veterinary Teaching Hospital, a position he held until September 2016. He completed Fellowship specialist training and examinations with the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists in 2014 and was registered as a small animal surgery specialist with the Australian Veterinary Boards Council.
In 2016 he returned to the UK to live in Somerset with his wife, children and began working alongside Rata Vet Surgery before going solo with his own business Kahu SA Surgery Services. In his spare time he enjoys treks with his family and Pip the dog, as well as kayaking and sailing.
In addition to writing research and clinical papers as part of his Fellowship training Richard has written articles for a number of veterinary publications and presented at CPD events in the UK, Australia and New Zealand.

