What Is Patella Surgery in Dogs?

Patella Surgery Dog

At Sandringham Veterinary Hospital, we often see dogs struggling with luxating patella, a condition where the kneecap (patella) slips out of place. This can cause lameness, discomfort, and difficulty walking. In moderate to severe cases, patella surgery is required to restore normal movement and prevent long-term joint damage.

What Is Patellar Luxation?

Patellar luxation occurs when the kneecap dislocates from its normal position in the groove of the femur. It can be:

  • Medial luxation – kneecap moves inward (common in small breeds).
  • Lateral luxation – kneecap moves outward (more common in large breeds).
  • Intermittent or permanent – some dogs experience occasional slipping, while others have a permanently displaced patella.

Over time, patellar luxation can lead to:

  • Lameness and skipping gait
  • Pain and discomfort
  • Arthritis and joint wear

When Does a Dog Need Patella Surgery?

Not all cases require surgery. Mild cases may be managed with physiotherapy and weight control, but surgery is recommended when:

  • The patella is frequently dislocating.
  • Your dog has persistent lameness or pain.
  • There’s joint damage or arthritis.
  • Conservative treatments are not effective.

Types of Patella Surgery

Patella surgery aims to stabilize the kneecap and prevent it from slipping out of place. The most common techniques include:

Trochleoplasty (Deepening the Groove)

  • The groove where the patella sits is shallow in some dogs, making it prone to dislocation.
  • This surgery deepens the groove so the patella stays in place.

Tibial Tuberosity Transposition (TTT)

  • In some cases, the patella is pulled out of alignment due to the positioning of the tibia.
  • This surgery realigns the tibia to keep the kneecap in its correct position.

Soft Tissue Reconstruction

  • The ligaments and tissues around the patella may be tightened or released to improve stability.

A combination of these techniques may be used to ensure long-term success.

Recovery After Patella Surgery

  • First 2 Weeks: Strict rest, pain management, and controlled movement.
  • Weeks 2-6: Gradual leash walks and rehabilitation exercises.
  • After 8-12 Weeks: Most dogs return to normal activity with a stronger, more stable knee.

Schedule a Consultation

If your dog is experiencing knee issues, our experienced team at Sandringham Veterinary Hospital can help. We provide expert surgical care and post-op support to ensure the best recovery possible.

Call us today to book an appointment!

Will My Dog Return to Normal Activity After TPLO Surgery?

A cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) tear is one of the most common knee injuries in dogs, often requiring Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO) surgery for a full recovery. Many pet owners ask, “Will my dog ever run, jump, and play like before?” The good news is that most dogs make a full recovery and return to their normal activity levels after TPLO.

At Sandringham Veterinary Hospital, we perform TPLO surgery with a comprehensive recovery plan to ensure the best outcome for your dog.

What to Expect After TPLO Surgery

First 2 Weeks: Skin Healing & Rest

  • Your dog will have stitches and a protective collar to prevent licking.
  • Strict crate rest or limited movement is essential.
  • Pain management and anti-inflammatory medication will keep them comfortable.

No running, jumping, or stairs during this time.

Weeks 2-6: Bone Healing & Rehabilitation Begins

  • The bone starts healing, but activity must remain controlled.
  • Short, leash walks can be introduced gradually.
  • Gentle range-of-motion exercises help prevent stiffness.

At the 6-week mark, we take X-rays to confirm bone healing.

Weeks 6-12: Strengthening & Gradual Return to Activity

  • Once X-rays show proper healing, activity increases.
  • Longer walks and light rehabilitation exercises improve muscle strength.
  • Hydrotherapy and physical therapy can help with joint flexibility.

Jumping, running, and off-leash play are still restricted.

12+ Weeks: Full Recovery & Normal Activity

  • Most dogs return to normal activity by 3-4 months post-surgery.
  • At 6 months, dogs can fully resume running, jumping, and playing.
  • Some dogs even return to high-impact sports like agility and fetch.

A well-executed recovery plan leads to long-term success!

How Successful Is TPLO Surgery?

  • 90-95% of dogs regain full function after TPLO.
  • Prevents arthritis progression, improving long-term joint health.
  • Stronger and more stable than other surgical alternatives.

At Sandringham Veterinary Hospital, our team ensures your dog receives the best post-operative care for a smooth recovery and return to normal life.

Helping Your Dog Recover Faster

To speed up recovery and ensure long-term success:

  • Follow all post-op restrictions – avoid excessive movement.
  • Rehabilitation & physiotherapy – helps rebuild muscle strength.
  • Maintain a healthy weight – prevents excess strain on the joint.
  • Regular vet check-ups – to monitor healing and progress.

Will My Dog Ever Be the Same?

For most dogs, yes! With proper care, rehabilitation, and time, your dog can return to an active, happy life after TPLO surgery. Many pet owners report their dogs are even more energetic once they’re pain-free!


If your dog has a CCL injury, schedule a consultation at Sandringham Veterinary Hospital today.

Call us to book an appointment!

Are There Alternatives to TPLO Surgery for Dogs?

TPLO Surgery Dog

A cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) tear is a common cause of lameness and knee pain in dogs. Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO) is the gold standard surgery for treating this injury, but it’s natural for pet owners to wonder if there are non-surgical or alternative surgical options available.

At Sandringham Veterinary Hospital, we help pet owners understand their treatment options to make the best decision for their dog’s long-term health.

Do All Dogs Need TPLO Surgery?

Not every dog with a CCL tear requires TPLO surgery. The best treatment depends on:

  • Your dog’s size and breed – Large, active dogs benefit most from TPLO.
  • Severity of the tear – Partial tears may improve with conservative treatment.
  • Age and overall health – Some dogs may not be ideal surgical candidates.

For small dogs or cases where surgery isn’t an option, there are alternative treatments to consider.

Non-Surgical Alternatives to TPLO

If your dog has a partial CCL tear or cannot undergo surgery, conservative management may help. This includes:

Strict Rest & Controlled Activity

  • Limiting movement (no running, jumping, or rough play).
  • Crate rest or small-room confinement for several weeks.
  • Short, leash-controlled walks to prevent further injury.

Pain Management & Anti-Inflammatory Medication

  • Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and swelling.
  • Joint supplements (glucosamine, chondroitin, omega-3s) to support cartilage health.
  • Adequan injections to slow down arthritis progression.

Weight Management & Diet

  • Excess weight strains the knee joint, worsening the injury.
  • A vet-supervised weight loss plan can reduce pain and improve mobility.

Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation

  • Hydrotherapy (underwater treadmill) to rebuild strength.
  • Passive range-of-motion exercises to maintain flexibility.
  • Cold laser therapy & acupuncture for pain relief.

Custom Knee Braces

  • A stability brace can help support the knee joint.
  • Best suited for small or inactive dogs.
  • Not a long-term solution but may help with mobility.

Important: Conservative management can work for mild cases, but many larger dogs or full ligament ruptures will eventually need surgery for long-term success.

Surgical Alternatives to TPLO

If TPLO isn’t the right choice for your dog, there are other surgical techniques:

Lateral Suture (Extracapsular Repair)

  • Uses a strong suture to stabilize the knee.
  • Works best for small dogs (less than 15kg).
  • Less effective in large dogs due to higher stress on the suture.

TTA (Tibial Tuberosity Advancement)

  • Similar to TPLO but uses a titanium implant to adjust knee mechanics.
  • Suitable for medium to large dogs.
  • Faster recovery than traditional suture repair.

CBLO (CORA-Based Leveling Osteotomy)

  • A newer technique similar to TPLO but better suited for certain bone structures.
  • Typically chosen based on individual knee anatomy.

At Sandringham Veterinary Hospital, we assess each dog individually to determine the best surgical or non-surgical treatment for their condition.

Which Treatment Is Best for My Dog?

Choosing between TPLO, alternative surgeries, or conservative management depends on:

  • Your dog’s size, weight, and activity level
  • Severity of the ligament tear
  • Risk of developing arthritis and secondary injuries
  • Long-term success rates of each treatment

For active or large-breed dogs, TPLO remains the most effective solution, as non-surgical treatments rarely restore full function. However, small dogs or those with partial tears may improve with a combination of rest, therapy, and medication.

Schedule a Consultation Today

If your dog has a CCL tear, our experienced team at Sandringham Veterinary Hospital can help determine the best treatment plan for a successful recovery.

Call us today to book an appointment!

How Do I Know If My Dog Needs TPLO Surgery?

Dog TPLO Surgery

If your dog is limping, struggling to stand, or avoiding activity, they may have suffered a cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) tear—one of the most common orthopedic injuries in dogs. Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO) surgery is the gold standard treatment for repairing a ruptured cruciate ligament, but how do you know if your dog actually needs it?

At Sandringham Veterinary Hospital, we specialize in diagnosing and treating CCL injuries, helping your dog regain mobility and live pain-free. Here’s what you need to know about when TPLO surgery is necessary.

Signs That Your Dog May Need TPLO Surgery

If your dog has a CCL tear, they may show one or more of the following symptoms:

  • Limping or Lameness – Most dogs with a CCL tear will avoid putting weight on the affected leg.
  • Difficulty Standing Up or Sitting – A torn ligament makes it painful to rise from a resting position.
  • Swelling Around the Knee Joint – Inflammation is common after a ligament rupture.
  • “Toe-Touching” Gait – Dogs often keep their toes on the ground but avoid full weight-bearing.
  • Clicking or Popping Sounds in the Knee – This can indicate joint instability.
  • Progressive Worsening of Symptoms – A partial tear can worsen over time, leading to a full rupture.

If your dog is showing any of these signs, schedule an appointment at Sandringham Veterinary Hospital for an evaluation.

How Is a Cruciate Ligament Tear Diagnosed?

Our veterinarians will perform:

  • A Physical Examination – Checking for knee instability and pain.
  • Palpation Tests – Identifying abnormal movement, such as the “drawer sign”, which confirms a ruptured ligament.
  • X-Rays – Evaluating joint health and ruling out other causes of lameness.
  • Advanced Imaging (If Needed) – MRI or ultrasound for complex cases.

Does My Dog Need TPLO Surgery?

Not every CCL tear requires surgery, but TPLO is recommended for:

Large or Active Dogs: Medium to large-breed dogs (e.g., Labradors, Rottweilers, German Shepherds) put more stress on their knees, making surgery the best option for long-term recovery

Dogs with Complete Ligament Ruptures: If the ligament is fully torn, the knee is unstable, and surgery is the only way to restore normal function.

Dogs That Have Not Improved with Conservative Management: Small dogs and partial ligament tears may improve with rest, pain management, and physiotherapy. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, surgery becomes necessary.

Dogs Experiencing Secondary Joint Damage: A torn CCL often leads to arthritis, meniscus damage, and chronic pain. TPLO surgery helps prevent further joint deterioration.

Why TPLO Is the Best Surgical Option

Unlike in humans (where ligament replacement is common), dogs’ knees do not respond well to ligament grafts. Instead, TPLO surgery changes the way the knee works, eliminating instability without affecting natural leg movement.

  • Works for dogs of all sizes
  • Permanent solution with a high success rate
  • Faster recovery compared to other surgical techniques
  • Reduces the risk of arthritis and long-term pain

What Happens If My Dog Doesn’t Get Surgery?

Without surgery, dogs with complete CCL ruptures often develop:

  • Chronic pain due to continued joint instability
  • Severe arthritis and long-term mobility issues
  • Muscle loss in the affected leg
  • Injury to the opposite knee, as dogs compensate for the weak leg

Call Sandringham Veterinary Hospital today to book an appointment!

How Long Does TPLO Surgery Take for Dogs?

TPLO Surgery Dog

At Sandringham Veterinary Hospital, we often get asked, “How long does TPLO surgery take?” While the surgery itself typically takes 1 to 2 hours, the entire process takes about half a day to ensure your pet receives the best care before, during, and after the procedure.

TPLO surgery is a highly specialized procedure that requires careful preparation, a skilled surgical team, and thorough post-operative monitoring. Here’s a closer look at what happens on the day of surgery.

The TPLO Surgery Process: What to Expect

1️ Hospital Admission & Pre-Surgical Examination
Your dog will be admitted to our hospital in the morning, where they will receive a full physical examination to assess their overall health.

2️ Preoperative Bloodwork
Before anesthesia, we perform blood tests to check internal organ function, ensuring your pet is healthy enough for surgery.

3️ Pre-Surgical Preparation

  • We keep your pet warm and comfortable before surgery, which helps maintain their body temperature and supports a smoother recovery.
  • Tranquilizers and anesthesia are administered to ensure a safe and controlled sedation process.

4️ Surgical Site Preparation

  • The fur around the knee is carefully clipped for sterility.
  • The leg is thoroughly sterilized to minimize infection risk.

5️ TPLO Surgery
The tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) surgery is performed by our expert veterinary team. This involves making a precise cut in the tibia, adjusting the angle of the knee joint, and stabilizing it with a stainless steel plate and screws.

6️ Post-Surgical X-Rays
After surgery, we take X-rays to confirm that the implant is positioned correctly, ensuring the best possible outcome for your pet.

7️ Recovery & Monitoring

  • Your pet is closely monitored by a dedicated veterinary nurse as they wake up from anesthesia.
  • Pain management is carefully provided to keep them comfortable and stress-free.

Why We Recommend an Overnight Stay

At Sandringham Veterinary Hospital, we strongly believe that the first 24 hours post-surgery are critical for pain control and monitoring. This is why our TPLO surgery package includes an overnight hospital stay on a painkiller drip.

Rather than managing your pet’s discomfort at home, they will rest comfortably in our hospital, receiving 24-hour professional care to ensure they wake up pain-free and ready to go home in better condition the next day.

Why TPLO Surgery Requires a Skilled Veterinary Team

While the surgery itself is just one part of the process, it takes a well-trained and highly coordinated veterinary team to ensure a smooth experience. From pre-surgical assessments to post-operative recovery, we focus on:

  • Ensuring safety and comfort throughout the process
  • Providing expert surgical care with precision
  • Offering a smooth and stress-free recovery for your pet

At Sandringham Veterinary Hospital, we are committed to exceptional orthopedic care for your pets. If your dog is experiencing lameness, knee pain, or a cruciate ligament injury, contact us today to discuss whether TPLO surgery is the right option for them.

Call Sandringham Veterinary Hospital on 03 9598 7848 today to book a consultation!

How Much Does TPLO Surgery Cost for a Dog?

TPLO Surgery Dog

The cost of TPLO surgery in Melbourne can range from $3,000 to $8,000 AUD, but what’s included in that price varies greatly between clinics. Lower-cost options often do not include essential services such as blood tests, X-rays, rechecks, or post-operative medications, which can lead to unexpected additional costs.

At Sandringham Veterinary Hospital, we provide a fully inclusive TPLO surgery package for $4,000 AUD, ensuring your dog receives the highest standard of care with no hidden fees.

What’s Included in Our TPLO Surgery Package?

Hospitalization with an overnight stay on a painkiller drip
Pain management is crucial in the first 24 hours. Instead of managing discomfort at home, your pet will rest comfortably overnight, allowing them to go home the next day in a much better condition.

Preoperative blood tests
Checks vital organ function before anesthesia, ensuring your pet is fit for surgery.

Anesthesia with intravenous (IV) fluids
Provides safe, monitored anesthesia to maintain hydration and support circulation.

Surgical repair of the cruciate ligament
Performed by our expert veterinary surgeons using a stainless steel plate and screws for long-term stability.

Antibiotics, painkillers, and anti-inflammatories while in hospital
Helps prevent infection and ensures effective pain relief post-surgery.

Anti-inflammatory medication to take home
Supports ongoing comfort and recovery.

Four postoperative check-ups with a veterinary nurse
Allows us to monitor healing progress and address any concerns.

Sedation and postoperative X-rays at 6 weeks
Confirms proper healing of the implant, ensuring long-term success.

Why Choose Sandringham Veterinary Hospital for TPLO Surgery?

At Sandringham Veterinary Hospital, we believe comprehensive post-surgical care is just as important as the surgery itself. Our all-inclusive approach ensures your dog receives everything they need for a smooth, comfortable recovery—without surprise costs.

If your dog is experiencing lameness, knee pain, or mobility issues, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Our experienced veterinary team is here to help your pet get back to a happy, active life.

Call Sandringham Veterinary Hospital today to book an appointment!

What is a Cruciate Ligament Tear in Dogs?

Understanding Cruciate Ligament Tears in Dogs

At Sandringham Veterinary Hospital, we frequently treat dogs experiencing lameness caused by a cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) tear. This common orthopedic injury affects the knee joint, leading to pain, swelling, and reduced mobility. Just like in humans, dogs rely on their cruciate ligament for knee stability, and when it tears—either partially or completely—it can significantly impact their quality of life.

What Causes a Cruciate Ligament Tear in Dogs?

A CCL tear in dogs can result from:

  • Sudden injury (such as twisting, jumping, or running on uneven surfaces)
  • Degenerative ligament weakening over time
  • Obesity, which adds excessive strain to the knee joint
  • Genetic predisposition, particularly in large-breed and active dogs

Which Dogs Are Most at Risk?

Certain breeds, such as Labrador Retrievers, Rottweilers, Golden Retrievers, and Boxers, are more susceptible to cruciate ligament injuries. However, any dog—regardless of breed, age, or activity level—can develop a CCL tear, especially if they are overweight or prone to high-impact movement.

Signs Your Dog May Have a Cruciate Ligament Tear

If your dog is experiencing a CCL injury, you may notice:

  • Sudden limping or favoring one leg
  • Stiffness or difficulty getting up, especially after rest
  • Swelling around the knee joint
  • Reluctance to jump, run, or climb stairs
  • A noticeable “toe-touching” stance where they avoid placing full weight on the affected leg

Treatment Options for CCL Tears

Early intervention is key to preventing further joint damage. At Sandringham Veterinary Hospital, we offer comprehensive CCL tear treatments, including:

  • Medical management: Anti-inflammatory medication, weight control, and physiotherapy for minor or early-stage cases.
  • Advanced surgical options: Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO), the gold standard in dog knee surgery, effectively restores stability and function to the joint.
  • Rehabilitation and aftercare plans to ensure a smooth recovery.

Why Choose Sandringham Veterinary Hospital for CCL Tear Treatment?

As a trusted veterinary hospital in Sandringham, our experienced team specializes in orthopedic care and cruciate ligament repair for dogs. We use the latest diagnostic tools and surgical techniques to provide tailored treatment plans that help your pet regain mobility and live a happy, active life.

If you suspect your dog has a cruciate ligament tear, don’t wait, contact Sandringham Veterinary Hospital today to schedule a consultation. We’re here to help your pet every step of the way!