Dog Knee Surgery Mount Claremont

Understanding Cruciate Ligament Injuries in Dogs

Cruciate ligament injuries are one of the most common causes of lameness in dogs. A torn CCL, or cranial cruciate ligament, causes joint instability, inflammation and pain. It’s often the result of repetitive strain, genetic predisposition, or trauma during activity. If left untreated, the condition leads to degenerative arthritis and permanent joint damage.
You may notice your dog limping on the back leg, struggling to rise after rest, or showing decreased interest in exercise. These signs often appear subtly and worsen over time. A proper diagnosis from a veterinary clinic in Mount Claremont can help identify the issue early and prevent long-term complications.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

So when does a dog need knee surgery? Surgery is usually recommended when the CCL is completely or partially torn and the joint can no longer stabilise itself. In these cases, rest and medication can’t reverse the damage. Delayed intervention often results in more pain, reduced mobility and injury to the other hind leg due to overcompensation.
For active or large breed dogs, surgical repair is almost always the best treatment. Without it, even mild exercise can lead to swelling, stiffness, and progressive arthritis. At The Floreat Vet, we assess each case carefully and recommend a treatment plan tailored to your dog’s weight, activity level and overall health.

What TPLO Surgery Involves

TPLO (Tibial Plateau Levelling Osteotomy) surgery is considered the gold standard in orthopaedic surgery for dogs with CCL injuries. Rather than replacing the ligament, TPLO alters the biomechanics of the knee by rotating the tibial plateau. This creates stability during weight-bearing, even without an intact ligament.
Every dog scheduled for TPLO at our Mount Claremont practice undergoes a full pre-surgical assessment. This includes orthopaedic examination, X-rays, blood work, and anaesthetic planning. The surgery is performed by Dr Alex Hynes, a board-certified veterinary surgeon with over 15 years of experience in small animal orthopaedics, critical care and emergency trauma.
Compared to the lateral suture technique, TPLO provides faster, more reliable results for dogs over 15 kg or with high activity levels. Our surgical team uses minimally invasive surgery techniques wherever possible to reduce trauma and support faster healing.

Cost of Dog Knee Surgery in Mount Claremont

The cost of TPLO surgery at our Mount Claremont clinic ranges from $3,800 to $5,400. This fee includes:

Pre-operative consultation and imaging
Surgery performed by an experienced small animal surgeon
Anaesthesia and surgical monitoring
Hospital stay, pain relief and medication
Post-operative care and rehabilitation planning

Additional services such as orthotic therapy, diabetic foot care or physiotherapy for dogs can be included as needed. We also assist with insurance claims and flexible payment options on request.

Our Surgical Credentials and Trusted Team

Choosing where to have surgery performed is as important as the procedure itself. The Floreat Vet combines medical expertise with a commitment to the best possible care. Dr Alex Hynes holds a Master of Veterinary Studies and is a Member of the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists in Emergency and Critical Care. Her postgraduate training includes international placements in orthopaedic surgery and trauma management.
Our nursing team is trained in post-operative care, pain management for dogs, wound handling and rehabilitation techniques. We focus on safety, comfort and outcomes. Our local vet clinic also collaborates with rehabilitation specialists to support full recovery and reduce the chance of reinjury.
Every dog’s case is documented thoroughly, with before-and-after imaging, clear progress markers, and transparent updates. Testimonials and outcomes are available to view at our reception or by request.

How to Recognise the Signs of Knee Injury

Many owners miss the early signs of knee problems. If your dog hesitates on walks, shows stiffness after sleep, or holds one leg off the ground after activity, these are strong indications that a cruciate ligament injury may be present.
Some dogs develop a subtle but persistent hind leg lameness. Others show joint swelling, behavioural changes, or sudden reluctance to jump. A clicking or popping noise may occur when the leg is extended. These symptoms often lead to a veterinary diagnosis of a torn ACL in dogs, which requires surgical repair for the dog knee.
The earlier you act, the less damage accumulates—and the better the prognosis.

Recovery After TPLO

Recovery begins immediately after surgery. Most dogs begin bearing weight on the surgical leg within three to five days. Initial rest is strict, with controlled leash walks introduced around two weeks post-op. Full return to normal activity typically occurs between eight and twelve weeks, depending on the dog’s size and lifestyle.
Our clinic provides a structured post-operative care plan including pain management, exercise guidance, and physiotherapy sessions. Home support includes ramps, bedding recommendations and mobility-safe setups. We may recommend orthotic therapy in specific cases where additional support is needed during healing.
Dogs recovering from TPLO are reviewed regularly, with rechecks and imaging to confirm bone healing and assess mobility. Our team works closely with you to ensure progress is smooth and setbacks are minimised.

Why Early Intervention Matters

Delaying surgery allows joint instability to worsen. The result is cartilage damage, arthritis, and potential injury to the opposite leg. Many dogs with untreated cruciate ligament injuries end up requiring bilateral TPLO—doubling cost, complexity and recovery time.
Early action protects joint function, reduces long-term medication needs, and improves quality of life. Whether your dog’s injury is new or long-standing, assessment at our Mount Claremont veterinary clinic gives you clarity and control over the next steps.

Ready to Book Surgery?

Appointments for dog knee surgery are available now at The Floreat Vet. We serve Mount Claremont, Claremont, Floreat and surrounding suburbs with expert care in surgical and orthopaedic treatment.
Call us on (08) 9384 2644 or visit us at:
The Floreat Vet
5/443 Stirling Hwy, Claremont WA 6010
https://thefloreatvet.com

Our surgical schedule books out weeks in advance, so early consultation is advised. Book your pre-surgical assessment today and find out how we can restore your dog’s mobility—safely, effectively, and with full veterinary support.
Don’t delay care. Your dog deserves comfort, confidence and the ability to run again. Let us help make that happen.