You’ve just picked up your furry best friend from the animal hospital after orthopedic surgery. Their drowsy eyes and bandaged leg tug at your heartstrings, and you find yourself wondering if you’re prepared for the recovery journey ahead. Whether your dog needs a TPLO for a cruciate tear, an MPL repair for a dislocating knee cap, or a fracture repair, the post-surgery period is crucial for healing and returning to mobility.
At Broadway Veterinary Hospital, we understand that navigating your pet’s recovery can feel overwhelming. Our team of experienced veterinarians—led by Dr. Tyler—is committed to supporting you and your canine companion throughout the healing process. As UC Davis graduates with extensive experience in advanced orthopedic procedures, we’ve helped countless families through successful recoveries. We want to share our knowledge to make your pet’s healing journey as smooth and stress-free as possible.
The First 24-48 Hours After Your Dog’s Orthopedic Surgery
Immediately after you bring your pup home from surgery, they’ll likely be pretty tired. They may also feel some pain for the first 24 to 48 hours. Your vet will prescribe pain medication to help with pain management and relief, so please follow these instructions regarding dosage and timeline. Your vet may also recommend using a cool compress a few times daily for the first three to five days.
Twice a day, you’ll need to check your dog’s toes for signs of swelling, as well as check on the incision for discharge. You’ll want to keep an eye on their bandages, keeping them clean and dry. Your vet should advise you on how frequently you’ll need to change your pup’s bandages. Wounds that need to be drained may need their bandages to be changed every few hours, while others may not need to be changed much at all. Discharge is normal in the first 24 to 48 hours after you bring them home, but you should talk to your vet if you notice discharge after the first 48 hours. If the bandage slips out of place or your furry friend seems uncomfortable, call your vet to see whether you should replace it.
You’ll also need to limit your dog’s activity for 6 to 8 weeks. Create a safe, quiet, warm, and confined area where your dog can rest while healing. Make sure they have access to drinking water in this area as well.
What Does a Typical Recovery Timeline Look Like?
Following orthopedic surgery, every dog’s recovery timeline will look slightly different. For TPLO surgery—according to the AKC Canine Health Foundation—healing takes approximately two to three months, for example. An MPL, on the other hand, generally takes six to eight weeks. How long your pup takes to heal will depend on their specific surgery, age, overall health, and how closely you follow the veterinarian’s orders about rest and pain management.
Typically, stitches are removed one or two weeks after bringing your pup home. You may see some swelling or bruising, but this is normal. After two to six weeks, you can begin gradually increasing their activity. During this time, you can take your pup on slightly longer walks. Your vet may also recommend physical therapy.
The bone will heal for at least six to eight weeks. During the healing process, the vet will likely take X-rays to see how their bones recover. At this point, your pup may feel more comfortable putting weight on their leg. However, full recovery may take several months.
Trust Our Orthopedic Expertise for Your Pet’s Recovery
At Broadway Veterinary Hospital, our orthopedic expertise goes beyond just successful surgeries—we’re equally committed to guiding you through every step of your pet’s recovery journey. Our orthopedic doctor, Dr. Tyler, has performed countless successful TPLO procedures for cruciate tears, MPL repairs for dislocating knee caps, and complex fracture repairs. Our family-owned practice brings together advanced surgical techniques with the personal touch that comes from truly caring about each furry patient who walks through our doors.
Your pet deserves the best possible care during their recovery, and our team of UC Davis-trained veterinarians provides exactly that. We’ll be there to answer all your questions, adjust pain management protocols as needed, and celebrate every milestone in your dog’s healing process. For orthopedic surgery appointments or if you have concerns during your pet’s recovery, please don’t hesitate to call us at (916) 446-6154 or visit our contact form.
