Orthopaedic Surgery for Small Animals

Advanced surgical care delivered with skill and compassion in Mudgee and the Central West Region.

Serving veterinary professionals and pet owners across regional NSW.

About Apex Vet

We’re here to help both pets and their people thrive.

At Apex Vet, we know how much your pet means to you. That’s why we’ve built a practice where expertise meets empathy, and advanced orthopaedic care is delivered with transparency and warmth.

What makes us different? It’s not just our skill or knowledge — it’s how we make you and your pet feel valued every step of the way. We take the time to listen, explain your options clearly, and work with you to create the best plan for your pet’s unique needs.

In a world where healthcare can feel rushed, we’re bringing back the art of compassionate, attentive care so your pet can live its healthiest and happiest life.

Dr. Kate Elder

Veterinarian and Apex Vet owner

Dr. Kate Elder brings over a decade of veterinary and orthopaedic surgical experience to Mudgee and the Central West Region. After graduating from Charles Sturt University in 2014, she began her career as a mixed-animal practitioner in Mudgee, where she discovered her passion for orthopaedic surgery under the mentorship of Dr. Steve Ledger.

Since 2018, Kate has focused primarily on orthopaedic surgical cases, performing hundreds of procedures and building a reputation for technical skill and compassionate care. She maintains her commitment to staying at the forefront of veterinary orthopaedics through ongoing continuing education and further training in the latest surgical techniques.

Experience & Credentials

Bachelor’s degree in Veterinary Biology/Veterinary Science, Charles Sturt University (2014)

10+ years of veterinary practice

8+ years in orthopaedic surgery

Ongoing training in orthopaedic surgical techniques

Extensive experience with TPLO, fracture repairs, and complex orthopaedic cases

Surgical services

Orthopaedic Solutions

Apex Vet provides orthopaedic surgical services for small animals, combining advanced techniques with personalised care. We work collaboratively with referring veterinarians and pet owners to achieve the best possible outcomes.

Primary Services

• TPLO (Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy)
• Fracture Repairs
• Arthrodesis
• Luxating Patella Repairs

We welcome referrals.

For Referring Veterinarians

We understand the trust you place in referring surgeons.

At Apex Vet, you can expect:

Prompt communication throughout the surgical journey
Surgical reports and post-operative care instructions
Collaborative approach to case management
Support for you and your clients at every stage

For Pet Owners

Your pet’s recovery is our priority.

We provide:

Clear explanations of diagnosis and treatment options
Transparent discussion of procedures, risks, and expected outcomes
Detailed post-operative care guidance
Open communication throughout the recovery process
Partnership with your regular veterinarian for comprehensive care

"Having referred a variety of orthopedic surgical cases to Kate on recommendation from a trusted colleague I find her skills and knowledge a huge asset to us as referring vets. Apex Vet makes more advanced orthopaedic procedures accessible to the pets and owners of the Central West and beyond. Kate’s attention to detail and genuine care have me recommending her without hesitation."

— Zoe Black, Veterinarian (Orange, NSW)
“Did an amazing job on my sheepdog who other vets wanted to amputate his leg as was smashed so badly. Kate operated and he now musters in the hills and works in sheepdog trials. You would never know he had been injured.”

— Ann Leonard

Get in Touch

Whether you’re a veterinarian looking to refer a case or a pet owner seeking orthopaedic care, we're here to help. Contact us to discuss your needs.

Apex Vet: 2 Sydney Road, Mudgee, New South Wales

Phone: 02 6372 2787

Email: mudgee@apexvet.com.au

For Referrals: Please include relevant patient history, diagnostic imaging, and your contact preferences in your message or email.