Cost of CCL Surgery for Dogs

For many people who face the possibility of surgery for their dog, a common concern is the price. And it can be expensive, but sometimes it’s the only option. This post is to help give you an idea of the total cost of dog knee injury-related procedures, including the surgery itself, post-op care, any extra supplies you may need, etc. Remember, though, that it is always wise to do your own research and talk to your vet regarding which type of surgery and therapy will be best for your dog. You might also consider getting more than one opinion from different vets before moving forward with surgery.

Surgery

Cost of surgery can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the geographic region where the surgery is performed (veterinary clinics in major cities tend to be more expensive than smaller veterinary offices), who is performing it (i.e. a board-certified orthopedic surgeon vs. a general veterinarian who has some experience with the surgery), the size of your dog, and what is included. The prices below, depending on the particular veterinary office, may include pre-surgery bloodwork, anesthesia, the surgery itself, post-surgery care, and medications. Be sure to clarify with your vet what exactly is included with the price.

Extracapsular Repair

$995-$3,00

The cost of extracapsular repair is generally less than TPLO or TTA surgeries, which involve manipulation of bone. Read more about the specific costs of traditional surgeries here.

Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO)

$2,500-$5,000

Read more about the specific costs of TPLO surgery here.

Tibial Tuberosity Advancement (TTA)

$2,200-$4,500

The cost of this particular surgery varies depending on the size of your dog. Smaller dogs require less;  many of the medications, supplies, and even implants are calculated based on weight. Read more about the specific costs of TTA surgery here.

Triple Tibial Osteotomy (TTO)

$3,000-$5,000

TTO is a procedure that combines different aspects of TPLO and TTA surgeries. It is not commonly performed in the U.S. at this time. Read an account of TTO surgery and its associated costs here.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy for dogs uses a variety of techniques in order to promote healing, relieve pain, and help with recovery for musculoskeletal injuries. Treatments may include electrical stimulation, hot and cold therapy, hydrotherapy, laser therapy, acupressure, stretching, massage, treadmills, and ultrasound.

Like surgery, the cost of physical therapy varies depending on the nature of the injury and the location of treatment. You can expect to pay between $100 and $200 for an initial consultation, which includes a physical exam, neurological exam, and gait analysis. The cost for each subsequent visit will vary according to the type of therapy needed as well as any special considerations for the individual dog. Expect to pay between $35 and $80 per session and between $500 and $1,500 for end-to-end therapy. Certain types of pet insurance may cover some or all of the costs. 

Post-Operative Supplies

Post-operative supplies are another expense you should take into consideration before moving forward with surgery for your dog. If you don’t already have one, a crate is generally recommended to ensure that your dog stays still for the weeks following surgery. E-collars are helpful for keeping your dog from licking the incision site, harnesses and braces help keep the knee in place during movement, and puzzles and toys help keep your dog mentally stimulated and entertained during recovery. See below for general prices of post-operative supplies.

• E-Collar/cone: $15
• Hot/cold compress: $15
• Crate: $30-$100, depending on dog size
• Knee brace: $150-$800, depending on brand
• Harness: $25-$60
• Joint supplements: $30-$80
• Puzzles/toys: $15-$20