Dr. Petersen completed both his undergraduate work and professional Veterinary School education at Colorado State University. He then completed his small animal surgical residency training at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Dr. Petersen is board certified in both Small Animal Surgery and Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation. He is the owner and primary surgeon at Veterinary Surgery and Sports Medicine of the Gorge in Hood River, OR.

His primary clinical interests are orthopedic surgery, trauma surgery (fractures), arthroscopy, and reconstructive surgery for traumatic and cancer associated wounds. Within the realm of orthopedic surgery, Dr. Petersen’s special interests include general canine sports medicine (evaluation and treatment of joint and ligament injuries) and correction of pediatric growth plate injuries and limb deformities through distraction osteogenesis. Dr. Petersen is one of the early veterinary orthopedic surgeons in the country to use arthroscopy to diagnose and treat canine joint problems (starting in the mid-1990’s) and has years of clinical experience with this specialty.

He is a part-time instructor with the Arthrex company, teaching arthroscopy to young surgeons and residents. Dr. Petersen is a strong proponent of postoperative physical therapy and incorporates rehab into his postoperative patient regimen whenever possible. He is also an advocate of rehab for the aging or geriatric patient to enhance mobility and quality of life.

Dr. Petersen lectures locally and nationally to numerous veterinary associations and veterinary surgical organizations. Outside of his clinical responsibilities, Steve devotes his free time to his family, and enjoys cycling, windsurfing, skiing, and hiking with his wife, kids, and the family dogs.