TPLO Recovery
Hub
Week-by-Week Recovery Timeline
Rest and pain control
- Confine to crate or small room
- Leash walks for bathroom breaks only
- Monitor incision for swelling or discharge
- Give all medications exactly as prescribed
Strict activity restriction
- No running, jumping, stairs, or off-leash time
- Most dogs begin bearing weight within days
- Keep the incision clean and dry
- Use an e-collar if your dog licks
Short controlled walks
- 5–10 minute walks, 2–3 times daily
- Still no running or jumping
- Continue range-of-motion exercises if prescribed
Build strength slowly
- Increase walks to 15–20 minutes
- Add gentle slopes or uneven ground if cleared
- No off-leash play or dog-park visits
Follow-up X-rays
- Radiographs confirm bone healing
- Most dogs cleared for normal activity
- Gradual return to longer walks and light jogging
Return to full activity
- Return to agility, hiking, or off-leash play
- Build intensity over 2–4 weeks
- Call if any lameness returns
Red Flags — Call Immediately
Sudden worsening lameness or non-weight-bearing
Incision swelling, heat, redness, or discharge
Fever, vomiting, or appetite loss over 24 hours
Pain not controlled by prescribed medication
Excessive licking or chewing at the incision
After hours, follow the emergency instructions on your discharge paperwork or contact your nearest emergency hospital.
Printable Recovery Checklist
Bring this checklist to your discharge appointment or share it with your referring veterinarian. It covers the most common questions owners ask during recovery.
Tip: Print this page and keep it on your refrigerator during recovery.
Questions During Recovery?
Call WMVO directly. We would rather hear from you early than have a small issue become a big one.