If your dog suddenly starts limping or cannot put weight on a back leg, one of the most common causes is a cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) injury. At Allambie Vet on Sydney's Northern Beaches, our experienced veterinarians, Dr Kate Clair and Dr Linda White, have completed advanced training in orthopaedic surgery and can now perform TPLO (Tibial Plateau Levelling Osteotomy) surgery right here in our hospital.
Cruciate ligament injuries are extremely common in active dogs, often leading to sudden lameness in a back leg. Some dogs limp, while others may hold the leg up completely. Owners sometimes notice subtle signs earlier, like their dog sitting with one leg extended out to the side.
A gradual weakening of the ligament over time usually causes these injuries. A simple twisting motion — such as running, jumping, or chasing a ball — can rupture the ligament, leaving the joint unstable and painful.
For the best long-term outcome, we recommend taking your dog for a veterinary assessment as soon as you notice any limping. Although some owners may attempt to manage the situation with rest and pain relief at home, cruciate ligament injuries rarely heal on their own and often worsen over time. At Allambie Vet, we suggest scheduling radiographs (X-rays) to confirm the injury and aid in surgical planning. We recommend TPLO surgery to restore your dog's mobility and reduce the risk of developing arthritis.
Molly, a lively 7-year-old Labrador, is one of our favourite patients. Her journey shows just how effective TPLO surgery can be.
After a walk with her dog walker, Molly returned home suddenly lame on her right hind leg. She occasionally held the leg up and seemed very uncomfortable, even though she had been fine that morning.
On examination, Molly showed soreness in her stifle (knee), and a positive cranial drawer test indicated cruciate ligament rupture. We started her on pain relief and booked radiographs the next day, which confirmed cruciate ligament disease.
Because Molly is an active dog, TPLO surgery was recommended as the best treatment. Dr Kate and Dr Linda performed the procedure here at Allambie Vet, carefully cutting and rotating the tibia before stabilising it with a bone plate.
Molly remained in the hospital with IV pain relief and close monitoring until she was comfortable to go home, where her owner was ready with a dedicated recovery space. She received oral pain relief and calming medications (to prevent her from overdoing it too quickly!) and returned to Allambie Vet for weekly check-ups. We also began Zydax joint injections to protect her joints and support long-term health.
At her 8-week recheck, Molly's post-operative radiographs showed her bone had healed beautifully. Over the following months, she gradually regained her strength and returned to her regular activity — including her favourite zoomies.
Almost a year later, Molly returned to us with lameness in her left hind leg. Unfortunately, around 50–75% of dogs who rupture one cruciate ligament will go on to injure the other during their lifetime.
Thanks to her owner's quick recognition of the signs, we confirmed the diagnosis and performed a second TPLO surgery. Just like the first time, Molly's recovery was smooth — supported by her owner at home and our veterinary team through every stage of aftercare.
Molly has recovered wonderfully from both surgeries and now has full use of her legs. She's back to being her cheerful, energetic self — a resilient Labrador who reminds us how well dogs can bounce back after cruciate surgery.
At Allambie Vet, your dog's comfort and safety are as important as a successful surgery. That's why we use an advanced pain management protocol for all TPLO patients:
During surgery, your pet will receive:
Intravenous antibiotics and pain relief under anaesthesia
A continuous intravenous analgesic infusion after surgery for ongoing comfort
Local nerve blocks for additional pain relief
After surgery, we provide:
A tailored pain management plan, including oral antibiotics, anti-inflammatories and pain relief medications to continue at home
Careful monitoring in the hospital and detailed home care instructions
The first four post-operative check-ups, during which your dog will also receive a course of Zydax joint support injections to promote long-term joint health
All of this is included in our TPLO surgery package.
We are proud to offer a comprehensive TPLO surgery package for $4,500, performed by our experienced veterinarians, Dr Kate Clair and Dr Linda White. They have completed additional training in orthopaedic surgery to provide this option for our patients.
This capped fee includes:
Pre-operative consult and blood tests
Anaesthesia and monitoring
TPLO surgery and implants
Pain management and infection control
Post-operative radiographs
Follow-up consultations at 3 days, 10 days, and weekly for 4 weeks (including Zydax injections)
Final recheck radiographs at 8 weeks
By choosing Allambie Vet, your dog can undergo advanced surgery within a familiar environment, supported by the veterinary team you know and trust.
👉 For more details about the procedure, visit our dedicated TPLO Surgery Information Page.
If your dog is limping, has suffered a cruciate ligament rupture, or you'd like to discuss whether TPLO surgery is the right option, our team is here to help — just like we were for Molly.
📞 Call us on 9905 0505 or
🌐 Book an appointment online
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