A message to dog owners dealing with a cruciate ligament injury

If your dog has been diagnosed with a cruciate ligament rupture, you are probably feeling overwhelmed. Many owners I see at Advanced Vet Care Lane Cove arrive worried, confused, and unsure whether surgery—particularly TPLO surgery—is really necessary.

As a vet who performs TPLO surgery regularly in Sydney, I want to be clear from the outset: TPLO is not the right solution for every dog. But for the right patient, it can be life-changing, restoring comfort, strength, and long-term mobility.

This article is designed to give you clear, honest, experience-based information so you can make an informed decision about your dog’s care.

What is a cruciate ligament injury in dogs?

The cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) in dogs functions similarly to the ACL in humans. Its role is to stabilise the knee (stifle) joint during movement.

When this ligament ruptures—either suddenly or gradually—the knee becomes unstable. This instability leads to:

• Pain and lameness
• Difficulty rising or jumping
• Progressive arthritis
• Secondary meniscal (cartilage) injury

In my experience, cruciate disease is one of the most common orthopaedic conditions I see in dogs across Sydney, particularly in:

• Medium to large breed dogs
• Active or athletic dogs
• Dogs with early degenerative ligament disease

What is TPLO surgery?

TPLO (Tibial Plateau Levelling Osteotomy) is a procedure that stabilises the knee without repairing the torn ligament itself.

Instead, the surgery changes the biomechanics of the knee by altering the angle of the tibial plateau. This neutralises the abnormal forward movement of the tibia that occurs when the cruciate ligament fails.

In practical terms, this means your dog can bear weight comfortably on the leg again—even without a functional cruciate ligament.

This biomechanical approach is why TPLO is often recommended for:

• Larger dogs
• Highly active dogs
• Working and sporting breeds
• Dogs with significant instability

When do I recommend TPLO surgery?

At Advanced Vet Care Lane Cove, I recommend TPLO surgery when the following factors are present:

• Medium to large body size (generally over 8kg)
• Active lifestyle or working/sporting role
• Moderate to severe knee instability
• Meniscal injury identified or suspected
• Chronic cruciate disease where arthritis is already developing

Each dog is assessed individually. My goal is not simply to perform surgery, but to choose the procedure that gives the best long-term outcome for that patient.

When TPLO may NOT be the best option

An important part of ethical orthopaedic care is knowing when not to operate.

TPLO may not be ideal for:

• Small dogs with low activity levels
• Older dogs with multiple medical conditions
• Dogs where strict or prolonged post-operative confinement is not achievable
• Cases where alternative stabilisation methods are more appropriate

In these situations, I often discuss options such as lateral suture stabilisation.

TPLO vs Lateral Suture cruciate ligament treatments

There is no single “best” surgery—only the most appropriate one for your dog.

What is recovery like after TPLO surgery?

Recovery is structured and gradual. In most dogs:

First 1–2 weeks:

• Strict cage rest
• Short lead walks
• Pain management and incision care

The following 6–8 weeks:

• Ongoing cage rest but gradual increase in on lead walks
• Physiotherapy or hydrotherapy where appropriate

12 weeks and beyond:

• Return to normal daily activity
• Ongoing muscle strengthening

Most dogs begin using the leg within days of surgery, which is one of the reasons owners often find TPLO recovery encouraging.

Success rates and long-term outlook

When appropriately selected and performed, TPLO surgery has an approximate 90% high success rate.

In my experience performing TPLOs, most dogs:

• Return to comfortable, functional activity
• Regain strong limb use
• Enjoy a good quality of life long term

Arthritis can still develop, but stabilising the joint early significantly slows progression and improves comfort.

Risks and complications

No surgery is risk-free. Potential complications include:

• Infection
• Implant-related issues
• Delayed bone healing
• Late meniscal injury

Careful surgical technique, appropriate case selection, and structured aftercare all help minimise these risks.

How much does TPLO surgery cost in Sydney?

The cost of TPLO surgery package with us is $5000, which includes:

• Pre-surgical chat with you and surgical planning (on our end)
• The TPLO surgery and implants
• Anaesthesia and pain management during and after surgery
• 4 follow up appointments following surgery to guide you through recovery

During your consultation at Advanced Vet Care Lane Cove, we provide a clear estimate and discuss what is included, so there are no surprises.

Why experience matters with TPLO surgery

TPLO is a technically demanding procedure. Outcomes depend heavily on:

• Accurate surgical planning
• Precise bone cuts and implant placement
• Careful post-operative monitoring

As a vet with Advanced GP Certification in Orthopaedic Surgery, I perform TPLO surgery regularly and manage these cases from diagnosis through to recovery.

When should you book an orthopaedic consultation?

I recommend an assessment if your dog:

• Has hindlimb lameness lasting more than 1–2 weeks
• Suddenly stops weight-bearing on a back leg
• Struggles to rise, jump, or climb stairs

Early intervention leads to better outcomes.

Frequently asked questions about TPLO surgery

Is TPLO surgery painful for dogs?
Pain is well controlled with modern analgesia, and most dogs are more comfortable once the knee is stabilised.

How long before my dog can run again?
Typically around 12 weeks, depending on healing and rehabilitation progress.

Will my dog rupture the other cruciate ligament?
Unfortunately, many dogs are at risk of injury to the opposite knee over time.

Is TPLO permanent?
TPLO provides permanent mechanical stability, though long-term joint health still benefits from weight control and muscle conditioning.

Book a TPLO consultation at Advanced Vet Care Lane Cove

If your dog has been diagnosed with a cruciate ligament injury—or you are unsure whether TPLO surgery is the right choice—I’m happy to talk you through the options. Please call the Advanced Vet Care Lane Cove team on 02 8552 7800 or book in an appointment online.

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Paralysis ticks are not only common in Sydney and surrounds, but also potentially fatal. These ticks inject a toxin into the bloodstream that affects the nervous system leading to paralysis and, without treatment, death. Even pets that don’t usually roam far can be at risk, as ticks are carried by wildlife and can be found in backyards, parks, and bushland.

Signs of tick paralysis can develop quickly and may include:

• Weakness or wobbliness in the back legs that progresses to the front legs
• Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
• Vomiting or loss of appetite
• Changes to the bark or meow
• Excessive drooling or difficulty swallowing

If you notice any of these signs, it is a veterinary emergency. Seek help immediately – early intervention can save your pet’s life.

The best protection is prevention. Modern tick preventatives are highly effective and available in spot-on, chewable, or injectable forms. Speak to us here at the clinic about the right product for your pet’s size, species, and lifestyle.

Daily tick checks are also crucial, especially during peak season – carefully run your fingers over your pet’s body, paying close attention to the head, neck, between the paws, and under the collar.

Don’t wait until it’s too late – protect your pet this tick season.

Book an appointment with our team today to discuss the best prevention plan and keep your pet safe.

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As a veterinarian, one of the most common—and often emotional—conditions I see in dogs is Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD). It’s a spinal condition that can range from mild back pain to complete paralysis. Understandably, many pet owners struggle with the decision of whether to try conservative treatment or go straight to surgery. This article is here to help you understand the differences and try and make the best decision for your pet.

What Is IVDD?

IVDD occurs when the discs that sit between the vertebrae of your dog’s spine start to degenerate. These discs act as cushions, and when they bulge or rupture, they can compress the spinal cord—causing pain, nerve damage, or worse.

There are two main types:

• Hansen Type I: A sudden disc rupture, more common in breeds like Dachshunds, French Bulldogs, Beagles, and Cocker Spaniels and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels.

• Hansen Type II: A slower, more chronic disc bulge, typically seen in larger or older dogs.

A Simple Decision Guide for Treatment

Here’s a general rule of thumb I share with clients:

• Grade 1–2: Start with conservative care if your pet is stable and improving.

• Grade 3: Consider surgery if there’s no progress in 24–48 hours or if symptoms are worsening.

• Grade 4–5: Surgery is strongly recommended—especially if your pet can’t feel their toes (deep pain negative).

IVDD Treatment Summary Table

Final Note

For more information on IVDD symptoms, diagnosis and treatment options please click here.

Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can make a huge difference. If you’re unsure, please don’t hesitate to call the Advanced Vet Care Lane Cove team on 85527800 or book in an appointment online.

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Dachshunds are a much-loved breed, known for their bold personality and distinctive long back. However, their unique body shape makes them particularly prone to intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)—a painful spinal condition that can lead to weakness, nerve damage, or even paralysis.

A 2018 study titled “Neuter status as a risk factor for canine intervertebral disc herniation (IVDH) in dachshunds: a retrospective cohort study” found that Dachshunds desexed before 12 months of age had a significantly higher risk of developing IVDD compared to those desexed later in life.

So, when should I desex my Dachshund?

Based on current evidence, it is generally recommended to delay desexing until at least 12 months of age to help lower the risk of IVDD. However, every dog is different. In some cases, earlier desexing may be advised for behavioural or medical reasons. We recommend discussing the timing with our vets directly so we can help you make an informed decision tailored to your pet.

Additional Ways to Reduce the Risk of IVDD

While timing desexing carefully is important, there are other key steps you can take to help protect your Dachshund’s spine:

• Keep them lean: Excess weight puts added pressure on the spine and can increase the risk of disc injury.

• Minimise jumping: Use ramps or steps to help your dog get on and off furniture, and avoid letting them jump from heights.

• Support their back: Always lift your Dachshund by supporting both their chest and rear to avoid straining their spine.

• Regular, gentle exercise: Daily walks and controlled play help maintain a healthy weight and muscle strength.

• Avoid slippery floors: Consider using rugs or runners to give them better traction and prevent slipping injuries.

In Summary

To help reduce your Dachshund’s risk of IVDD:

• Delay desexing until after 12 months, if appropriate for your pet

• Keep them lean, active, and well-supported

• Minimise jumping and rough play

For more information on IVDD symptoms, diagnosis and treatment options please click here.

If you have any concerns about your Dachshund’s health or would like to discuss desexing, please don’t hesitate to call the Advanced Vet Care Lane Cove team on 85527800 or book in an appointment online.

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Osteosarcomas are the most common type of bone cancer we see in dogs at Advanced Vet Care Lane Cove. It is a serious diagnosis, but treatment options and prognosis have improved over the last few years. With early detection and working together to form a treatment plan, many dogs can maintain a good quality of life for a significant amount of time.

What Is Osteosarcoma?

Osteosarcoma (OSA) is an aggressive cancer that originates in the bone. It most often affects the long bones of large and giant breeds—like the limbs of Greyhounds, Rottweilers, or Labrador Retrievers—but it can also occur in the jaw, spine, ribs, or pelvis.

This cancer tends to spread (metastasise), especially to the lungs, which is why prompt diagnosis and treatment are so important.

Signs and Symptoms

The most common sign is lameness or limping that doesn’t go away and seems to worsen quickly. You may also notice:

• Swelling in the affected area

• Pain or tenderness

• Reluctance to walk, jump, or play

• A noticeable mass or bony swelling

• Sudden fracture (in cases where the tumor weakens the bone)

If you notice any of these signs, please call our team on 02 85527800 as soon as possible. We will have you seen as quickly as possible as early intervention can make a meaningful difference.

Diagnosing Osteosarcoma

Our vets at Advanced Vet Care Lane Cove work hard to diagnose osteosarcomas as quickly as possible. We will begin with a physical exam and X-rays of the affected area. On X-rays, osteosarcoma typically causes a characteristic “sunburst” pattern in the bone.

To confirm the diagnosis, we may then recommend:

• Biopsy or fine-needle aspiration to collect cells for analysis

• Chest X-rays or a CT scan to check for metastasis (especially to the lungs)

• Bloodwork and urinalysis to assess your dog’s overall health

Treatment Options

Treatment for osteosarcoma aims to relieve pain, slow the progression of the disease, and extend your dog’s quality of life. The most effective approach usually combines surgery and chemotherapy.

1. Surgery

• Amputation: For many dogs, removing the affected limb is the best option to control pain and eliminate the primary tumor. Most dogs adapt well to life on three legs—often far better than many owners expect.

2. Chemotherapy

Even after the tumor is removed, there is a high risk of metastasis. Chemotherapy can help slow the spread of cancer and is usually recommended following surgery. Common drugs include carboplatin, cisplatin, or doxorubicin. Dogs generally tolerate chemo much better than people—side effects are typically mild.

3. Palliative Care

If surgery or chemotherapy isn’t an option, there are still ways to help your dog feel more comfortable:

• Pain management with medications like NSAIDs, gabapentin, or opioids

• Radiation therapy to relieve bone pain

• Bisphosphonates to strengthen bone and reduce pain

Prognosis

With surgery and chemotherapy, the average survival time is around 10–12 months, though some dogs live much longer—especially with early treatment. Without treatment, survival is typically limited to a few months, as the disease progresses and pain becomes harder to manage.

While osteosarcoma is a challenging diagnosis, many dogs continue to enjoy happy, meaningful time with their families during and after treatment.

Supporting You and Your Pet

Facing cancer is never easy. We’re here to guide you through every step—whether you choose aggressive treatment or focus on keeping your dog comfortable. Your bond with your pet is what matters most, and there is no one “right” decision—only what is best for you and your dog.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team on 02 85527800 with questions or concerns. We’re here to help.

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We see dog’s with luxating patellas on a daily basis at Advanced  Vet Care Lane Cove. There are many that we pick up just on routine exam and are happily living with a low grade issues and without need for any major intervention. However, we also see plenty of dogs that will benefit from extra help. I hope this article helps make some of the decision making clearer for you.

What is a Luxating Patella?

A luxating patella occurs when the kneecap (patella) dislocates or moves out of its normal position in the groove of the femur (thigh bone). This can happen in one or both hind legs, and it can be a congenital condition (present at birth) or develop later in life due to injury or wear and tear. While it is more common in small breeds like Chihuahuas, Pomeranians and Dachshunds, it can affect any dog.

Types of Luxating Patellas

There are four grades of luxating patellas, based on severity:

1. Grade 1: The patella can be popped out during examination by a veterinarian but returns to its normal position on its own.
2. Grade 2: The patella frequently dislocates but can be manually popped back into place.
3. Grade 3: The patella is dislocated most of the time and cannot be manually repositioned easily.
4. Grade 4: The patella is permanently out of place and cannot be repositioned manually. This is the most severe form.

Signs and Symptoms of Luxating Patellas

Owners may notice one or more of the following signs if their dog has a luxating patella:

• Limping: Often intermittent and may affect one leg or both.
• Skipping or “bunny hopping” when walking or running: The dog may appear to skip or hop as the affected knee gets temporarily stuck.
• Pain or discomfort: Dogs may exhibit signs of pain when the patella moves out of place. This may result in the dog crying or limping after certain activities.

When to Seek Veterinary Help

If you notice any of the symptoms above, it’s important to book in for a consultation with us on 02 8552 7800. Even if the symptoms are mild, early intervention can help prevent further complications.

Treatment Options for Luxating Patellas

Treatment depends on the severity of the condition, as well as your dog’s age, breed, and overall health. Here’s an overview of the available treatment options:

Conservative Management – used for Grade 1 and sometimes Grade 2

• Weight management: Keeping your dog at a healthy weight reduces stress on the knees.
• Joint supplements: Products containing green-lipped muscle, glucosamine and chondroitin may help support joint health. We also often use pentosan injections to help improve joint health
• Physical therapy: Exercises or even physiotherapy/hyrdotherapy to strengthen the muscles around the knee joint can improve stability and reduce pain.
• Anti-inflammatory medications: Your vet might prescribe pain relief or anti-inflammatory medications to ease discomfort.

Surgery  – typically for Grade 2 cases that show symptoms and always for Grade 3 and Grade 4

We expect that approximately 95% of cases treated surgically will get a really good, highly functional outcome. Surgery involves a combination of:

• Trochleoplasty: The groove in the femur where the patella rests is deepened to keep the kneecap in place.
• Tibial tuberosity transposition: The tendon attaching to the patella is repositioned to improve alignment.
• Soft tissue repair: In some cases, ligaments or other tissues are repaired or strengthened to prevent the patella from slipping.

When is Surgery Necessary?

Surgery is typically recommended if:

• The luxating patella is causing significant pain or discomfort.
• The condition is progressively getting worse.
• Conservative treatments (rest, medication, etc.) are not effective.
• The luxation is severe (Grade 3 or Grade 4), and the dog has difficulty walking or using the leg.
• The dog is otherwise healthy enough for surgery and rehabilitation.

Conclusion

A luxating patella doesn’t have to mean the end of an active lifestyle for your dog, but early detection and appropriate treatment are key to managing the condition. Our vets are available 7 days a week to help get your pet the best outcome possible.

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What is Enrichment?

Enrichment for dogs and cats means providing activities that keep them mentally stimulated, physically active, and emotionally fulfilled. It helps prevent boredom and encourages natural behaviours like playing, exploring, and problem-solving. For dogs, this might include interactive toys, training games, and sniffing activities, while cats enjoy climbing, scratching, and chasing moving objects. Keeping pets engaged not only makes their lives more enjoyable but also helps prevent problem behaviours, reduces stress, and strengthens their bond with their owners.
Adding enrichment to your pet’s daily life is incredibly rewarding for both of you! Every pet is unique, so exploring different activities helps you discover what excites and engages them the most. A happy and mentally stimulated pet leads to a more peaceful and joyful home. Here are the key types of enrichment to consider:

1. Physical Enrichment

Keeping your pet active is essential for their health and happiness. For dogs, this means daily walks, running, playing fetch, or engaging in agility training. Cats, on the other hand, thrive on activities like chasing toys, climbing cat trees, or pouncing after toys. Regular exercise not only keeps pets in good shape but also helps release pent-up energy, reducing stress and preventing destructive behaviours.

2. Mental Enrichment

Pets love a good brain workout! Puzzle feeders, treat-dispensing toys, and interactive games challenge their problem-solving skills and keep their minds engaged. Training sessions are also a great way to provide mental enrichment—dogs can learn new cues or tricks, and even cats can enjoy training. Stimulating their brains keeps them curious, confident, and eager to learn.

3. Sensory Enrichment

Engaging your pet’s senses—sight, smell, sound, taste, and touch—adds excitement and variety to their world. Dogs love sniffing new scents, exploring different textures, or listening to calming music. Cats enjoy watching birds outside the window, playing with crinkly or jingling toys, and experiencing new smells like catnip. Introducing new sensory experiences keeps their environment fresh and interesting.

4. Social Enrichment

Many pets thrive on social interaction! Dogs often enjoy playdates with their canine friends, attending training classes, or simply spending quality time with their favourite humans. While cats tend to be more independent, they still benefit from interactive play with their owners, cozy cuddle sessions, or even the companionship of another pet. Social enrichment helps build confidence and strengthens bonds.

5. Environmental Enrichment

Enhancing your pet’s environment can make a big difference in their daily life. For dogs, this might mean rotating toys, setting up obstacle courses, or creating fun scent trails to follow. Cats love vertical spaces like shelves, cozy hiding spots, and scratching posts to satisfy their natural instincts. Simple changes to their surroundings can prevent boredom and encourage natural behaviours.

The Importance of Enrichment

Providing enrichment isn’t just about keeping your pet entertained—it’s about improving their overall well-being. A well-enriched pet is happier, healthier, and more balanced. Whether it’s through physical play, mental challenges, sensory experiences, social interactions, or environmental enhancements, enrichment helps prevent behavioural issues, reduces stress, and strengthens the bond between pets and their owners. By making enrichment a daily habit, you’re ensuring that your furry friend leads a fulfilling, joyful life. After all, a happy pet means a happy home!

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Dominance theory originated from flawed studies on captive wolves in the mid-20th century. Researchers observed aggressive behaviours among unrelated wolves in unnatural, confined settings and assumed this reflected natural pack dynamics. Later studies on wild wolves revealed a very different reality: wolf packs are typically cooperative family units, not rigid hierarchies ruled by an “alpha.”

Applying dominance theory to dogs is even more problematic. Dogs are not wolves—they’ve evolved alongside humans for thousands of years, developing their own unique social structures. Most problematic behaviours in dogs stem from fear, stress, or confusion, not a desire to dominate.

For example, a dog that pulls on the lead isn’t trying to “lead the pack”—they’re likely excited or overstimulated. A dog that growls when approached while eating isn’t asserting dominance—they’re guarding what they perceive as a valuable resource.

The persistence of dominance theory has led to harmful training practices that involve causing pain or fear in an attempt to make the dog view you as the ‘pack leader’. Examples of such techniques include alpha rolls, leash corrections, and intimidation-based methods. These techniques can damage the bond between you and your dog, increase fear and anxiety, and even lead to more aggression.

In contrast, positive reinforcement training focuses on rewarding desirable behaviours rather than punishing undesirable ones. This method encourages dogs to repeat good behaviour by associating it with rewards like treats, praise, or play. Scientific studies have consistently shown that positive reinforcement leads to better learning outcomes, increased confidence, and a stronger relationship between dogs and their owners. When dogs feel safe and motivated, they are more willing to engage in training and learn more effectively, making positive reinforcement not only humane but also highly effective.

As responsible dog owners and trainers, it is essential to move away from outdated dominance-based techniques and embrace science-backed, force-free training methods. Positive reinforcement not only helps dogs develop good behaviour but also strengthens the bond between pets and their people, fostering a relationship built on trust and mutual respect. By understanding and meeting a dog’s needs through compassionate training, we create well-adjusted, happy companions who thrive in our homes and society.

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Dog Trainer

Dog trainers are like teachers or personal trainers for your pup. They’re great at helping with obedience training—think cues like “sit,” “stay,” or “come.” Trainers can also help tackle everyday challenges like leash pulling, jumping up on people, or house training. Look for a trainer that uses positive reinforcement training methods to guide your dog toward good behaviour. If your furry friend needs a little polishing on their manners or wants to learn new tricks, a dog trainer is your go-to.

Veterinary Behaviourist

A veterinary behaviourist is like a detective and therapist rolled into one, but for your pet. They’re qualified vets who’ve had extra training in animal behaviour. Their expertise is perfect for solving more serious issues like severe anxiety, aggression, or compulsive behaviours. Pain and illness can be big factors in behaviour, so if a medical condition is behind your dog’s behaviour, they can diagnose and treat it. They’ll also create personalised behaviour plans and may prescribe medication if needed.

Which One Should You Choose?

If your dog needs help with basic skills or everyday manners, a dog trainer is the perfect fit. Look for a trainer that will use positive methods and not force your dog into situations that make them uncomfortable or cause discomfort or pain. Unfortunately in Australia, dog training is an unregulated industry, so it is important to do some research into the trainer, their experience, and their methods before engaging them.

If your dog is dealing with serious behavioural challenges, sudden or drastic changes in behaviour, escalating / dangerous behaviours that could cause harm to them or to others, or you think something medical might be involved then it’s time to see a veterinary behaviourist.

Sometimes, both professionals can team up to give your pup the best care possible. Knowing the difference between them makes it easier to get the right help and ensure your dog is happy and healthy!

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