Preparing for your dogs TPLO Surgery

Schedule:

Get a clear idea of the rehab and check ups schedule from the surgeon PRIOR to the surgery, in our experience they like to give this to you as part of the discharge procedure allowing you very little time to plan your work schedule etc - doing this will allow you to plan your time accordingly - don't forget to leave some flexible time incase things don't go to plan.. (like our experience of Ripley's second TPLO where the implant failed !! - See here) 

TPLO (Tibial Plateau Levelling Osteotomy) recovery for dogs typically takes 12–16 weeks, with full, unrestricted activity often allowed around 4–6 months. The first 2 weeks focus on strict rest and wound healing, followed by gradual leash walk increases. 

Pre-Op Home preparation:

Surgery Recovery Area:

  • Small / restricted area with non-slip flooring (carpet or mats) 
  • Separate your dog from other active pets / young children

If your dog has always been in your family space then we'd suggest keeping them there.. your dog will not understand if they are separated from you plus if they can see you they are less likely to get anxious and you can keep a better eye on them.. 

Mental Stimulation:

Your dog will get bored QUICKLY so ensure you have a variety of activities to do with your dog i.e. 'floor based' interactive toys, treat dispensers, lick mats, snuffle toys etc. 

Equipment / Aids:

e-Collar:

It is highly likely the vet / surgeon will provide you with a plastic 'cone of shame' post-surgery. If your dog is anything like Ripley they will HATE it, they are uncomfortable, restrict visibility and get caught on everything (+ as they are stiff they create quite a jolt when they do). 

We bought a 'soft cone' for Ripley which flattens properly when he laid his head down. We also tried the 'doughnut style' one but found that he could reach the wound site making it pointless !  

Sling:

We were provided with a sling and soft harness from the surgeon, its a lovely idea 'in theory'  but with a 40kg dog trying to support the front and rear end alone is no mean feat.. (Ripley had arthritis in his elbow) we ended up cutting up a broom handle and wrapping it with tennis racket grip thus allowing us to hook the harness on one end and sling on the other i.e. making it a one handed operation rather than a 2 handed sideways shuffle or 2 person operation to get him out for toilet breaks etc. Since Ripley's surgery much better sling systems have come on the market so have a look around and purchase the right size BEFORE the surgery and practice putting it on / taking it off so its not new to you nor your dog when it comes to actually needing it...

Reusable Ice pack:

We were advised to ice the TPLO surgical incision 2–4 times daily for 10–15 minutes during the first 3–5 days to reduce swelling and pain. Use a cold pack or frozen veg wrapped in a thin towel to protect the skin, applying it directly to the knee. Never leave your dog unattended while icing..

Rehab sessions:

Source your local canine therapists and pre-book sessions for:

After the first few weeks recovery from Ripley's second TPLO surgery (we knew more the second time around!) Ripley also had accupuncture, osteopathy and red light therapy.. 

Pain relief:

Ensure you have enough pain relief for your dog before you bring them home from surgery, nothing worse than 'running out' or not having enough right when they need it. !