What You Need to Know if Your Dog Has Been Diagnosed with a Cruciate Ligament Injury (and How TPLO Surgery Can Help)

Discovering that your dog has a cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) injury can be overwhelming. It’s one of the most common causes of hind leg lameness in dogs and can significantly affect your dog’s comfort and mobility. At Attadale Veterinary Hospital, we’re here to help you understand what this diagnosis means—and how TPLO surgery offers a reliable way to get your dog back on their feet.

What Is the Cranial Cruciate Ligament (CCL)?

Think of the CCL as a key stabilizer inside your dog’s knee joint. It keeps the bones aligned and the joint stable when your dog walks, runs, or jumps. When this ligament tears or ruptures—due to injury, wear and tear, or genetics—the knee becomes unstable, causing pain and limping.

How Do You Know if Your Dog Has a CCL Injury?

Signs can vary but commonly include:

• Limping or favouring one back leg

• Difficulty standing up or climbing stairs

• Swelling or tenderness around the knee

• Reduced activity or reluctance to exercise

• “Clicking” or popping sounds when your dog walks

If you notice these symptoms, it’s important to have your dog evaluated by a veterinarian promptly to avoid worsening damage.

What Are the Treatment Options?

Treatment can range from conservative management (rest, anti-inflammatories, physical therapy) to surgery. For many dogs—especially medium to large breeds—surgery provides the best chance for a full recovery and long-term comfort.

What Is TPLO Surgery?

TPLO stands for Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy, a surgical procedure that stabilizes the knee by altering the angle of the shin bone (tibia). Instead of repairing the torn ligament itself, TPLO changes the mechanics of the knee to prevent painful slipping.

Why Choose TPLO?

• Offers excellent joint stability

• Reduces pain and improves mobility quickly

• Helps slow down the development of arthritis

• Recommended especially for larger or active dogs

What Happens During the Surgery?

Your dog will be placed under general anaesthesia. Dr Avi cuts and rotates the top part of the tibia and secures it with a metal plate and screws. This realignment prevents abnormal movement, letting your dog walk comfortably again.

What Should You Expect After Surgery?

Recovery involves rest and limited activity for several weeks. Our team will guide you on pain management and rehabilitation to support healing. Most dogs begin to improve noticeably within weeks and return to normal activity in about 8 to 12 weeks.

How Can Attadale Veterinary Hospital Support You and Your Dog?

From diagnosis to surgery and aftercare, our experienced team is here to answer your questions and provide compassionate, personalised care. We use advanced imaging like X-rays to assess your dog’s knee and carefully plan the best treatment.

If your dog has been diagnosed with a cruciate ligament injury or you suspect they may have one, please get in touch with us. We’re ready to help your furry friend get back to enjoying life comfortably.

Your dog deserves to move pain-free again. Trust Attadale Veterinary Hospital for expert TPLO care.