ACL Surgery for a One-Year-Old Lab: Cost and Recovery

In the United States, cruciate (ACL) surgery typically costs a few thousand dollars per knee, often in the range of about 3,000 to 6,000 dollars for a TPLO at a specialty hospital, and less at a general practice or for other techniques. Prices vary a lot by region, so your clinic's estimate is the most reliable figure.

Recovery usually takes about 3 to 4 months. The first 8 weeks are the strictest: short leash walks for potty only, no running, jumping or stairs, and a crate or small room when you can't watch him. Rehab exercises and gradual increases in walking follow, and many dogs are back to normal activity by about 4 to 6 months. Follow your surgeon's schedule closely, since too much activity early is the main cause of complications.

The repaired knee usually does well. The bigger concern is the other knee: a large share of dogs, often quoted as around 40 to 60 percent, tear the ligament in the opposite knee within a year or two. Keeping him lean, building muscle steadily and avoiding sudden twisting during recovery help lower that risk.

See torn ACL in dogs.

This is general information, not a diagnosis. Please follow your own vet's advice.