When your dog suddenly starts limping after a romp at Lake Ontario Park, or yelps in pain coming off the couch at home, panic sets in fast. The first thought for most pet parents in Kingston is the same — “I need to find a trusted vet clinic near me right now.” Emergency situations don’t wait for business hours, and the decisions made in the next few hours can shape your dog’s mobility for years to come.
At Gardiners Road Animal Hospital (GRAH), we’ve helped hundreds of Kingston families navigate one of the most common — and most misunderstood — canine orthopedic emergencies: ACL tears and TPLO surgery in dogs. This complete guide walks you through everything you need to know before, during, and after your dog’s surgery.
🚨 Emergency? Call us now: +1 613-634-5838
📍 Location: 625 Fortune Crescent #2, Kingston, ON K7P 0L5
🕐 Open: Mon–Fri 8am–8pm | Sat & Sun 9am–6pm
📋 Table of Contents
- Why ACL Injuries Are So Common in Dogs
- Warning Signs of a Torn ACL
- When ACL Surgery Becomes an Emergency
- TPLO Surgery for Dogs Explained
- TPLO Surgery Cost in Kingston, Ontario
- Finding Affordable Veterinarian Care in Kingston
- Recovery Timeline at GRAH
- Why Choose GRAH Kingston
- Frequently Asked Questions
Why ACL Injuries Are So Common in Dogs
The cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) in dogs is the equivalent of the ACL in humans. It stabilizes the knee joint and bears tremendous load every time your dog runs, jumps, or pivots. Unlike human ACL injuries — which usually happen from a single traumatic event — dog ACL tears are often the result of gradual degeneration combined with a sudden movement.
Common triggers we see at our Kingston animal hospital include:
- Twisting while chasing a ball or squirrel at Lemoine Point Conservation Area
- Slipping on icy Kingston sidewalks during winter months
- Missteps coming off the couch or bed
- Rough play with other dogs at the dog park
- Jumping out of vehicles after a trip
High-risk breeds we treat regularly include: Labrador Retrievers, Rottweilers, Newfoundlands, Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, and Bulldogs. Overweight dogs face significantly higher risk, and once one knee tears, there’s roughly a 50% chance the opposite knee will follow within 12–24 months.
Warning Signs Your Dog May Have Torn Their ACL
If you notice any of these symptoms, contact GRAH Kingston immediately at 613-634-5838 or book an appointment online:
- ✅ Sudden lameness or holding a hind leg up
- ✅ Sitting with the affected leg stuck out to the side
- ✅ Visible swelling around the knee joint
- ✅ Difficulty standing up after rest
- ✅ A clicking sound when walking
- ✅ Reluctance to jump, climb stairs, or play
- ✅ Gradual muscle loss in the affected leg
Early diagnosis at our Kingston vet clinic usually means better surgical outcomes and a smoother recovery. Don’t wait it out — partial tears almost always progress to complete ruptures.
When ACL Surgery Becomes an Emergency
Not every ACL tear requires same-day surgery, but several scenarios push the case into emergency territory:
- Complete rupture with severe knee instability
- Meniscal damage causing intense pain
- A working or athletic dog who depends on full mobility
- Inability to bear any weight on the leg for more than 24 hours
- Signs of infection near the joint
Many pet owners delay because they’re scrambling to find affordable veterinarian care near me. That’s understandable — but delaying ACL repair can lead to chronic arthritis, muscle atrophy, and tearing of the opposite knee. At GRAH, we commit to being available for emergency situations during our regular hours and work with you to make care accessible.
TPLO Surgery for Dogs Explained
At our Kingston animal hospital, we offer a range of surgical services including soft-tissue and orthopedic surgeries. When your dog needs ACL repair, three options are typically discussed:
1. TPLO Surgery (Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy) — The Gold Standard
TPLO surgery is considered the gold standard for medium to large dogs and active breeds. Rather than replacing the torn ligament, the surgeon changes the geometry of the knee joint itself. A curved cut is made in the tibia, the bone is rotated to level the joint surface, and a titanium plate holds everything in place while it heals.
The advantage? The knee becomes biomechanically stable without needing the ligament at all. Most dogs are bearing weight within days and returning to near-normal activity within 4–6 months. Success rates exceed 90% in properly selected patients.
2. TTA (Tibial Tuberosity Advancement)
Similar in concept to TPLO but using a different geometric approach. A strong alternative for certain anatomies, with recovery times comparable to TPLO.
3. Extracapsular Repair (Lateral Suture)
This traditional technique uses heavy suture material outside the joint to mimic the function of the torn ligament. Typically reserved for smaller dogs (under 40 pounds), it tends to be more affordable — relevant if you’re looking for a cheap animal clinic near me that still delivers quality orthopedic care.
TPLO Surgery Cost in Kingston, Ontario
Here’s a transparent breakdown of what dog ACL surgery typically costs in the Kingston area:
| Surgery Type | Average Cost (CAD) | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| TPLO Surgery | $4,500 – $7,500 per knee | Medium/large active dogs |
| TTA Surgery | $4,000 – $6,500 per knee | Medium/large dogs |
| Extracapsular Repair | $2,000 – $3,500 per knee | Small dogs under 40 lbs |
Costs vary based on your dog’s size, severity, pre-surgical diagnostics, and post-operative needs. At GRAH, we provide a fully itemized estimate before any procedure — no surprises.
Finding Affordable Veterinarian Care in Kingston
Quality care doesn’t have to drain your savings. If you’re searching for a low cost dog clinic near me in the Kingston region, these options can make surgery more accessible:
- Payment plans — Ask our team about flexible options tailored to your situation
- Pet insurance — Companies like Trupanion, Petplan, and Pets Plus Us reimburse 70–90% if enrolled before injury
- PetCard / Medicard financing — Spread payments over 6–24 months
- OVC Health Sciences Centre (Guelph) — Teaching hospital with reduced rates for complex cases
- Crowdfunding — Platforms like Waggle and GoFundMe for emergencies
- Breed rescue grants — Many Canadian breed clubs offer emergency medical funds
💡 Tip from our team: The earlier you address the injury, the lower the total cost. Delays often lead to compensating injuries on the opposite leg, which can double your eventual bill.
Recovery Timeline: Week-by-Week at GRAH
Surgery is only half the journey. Recovery is where outcomes are truly determined, and it requires real commitment from you as the owner.
Weeks 1–2: Strict Confinement
Crate rest. Short, leashed bathroom breaks only. No jumping, no stairs, no playing. Ice packs and prescribed pain medication. Our team checks in to support you through this critical phase.
Weeks 3–6: Controlled Movement
Gradual reintroduction of short, controlled leash walks. We may recommend physical rehabilitation or hydrotherapy to speed healing.
Weeks 7–12: Progressive Loading
Activity duration and intensity increase progressively. Follow-up X-rays at GRAH confirm bone healing around the implants.
Months 4–6: Return to Normal
Cleared for off-leash play, hiking the K&P Trail, and a return to regular life — under your surgeon’s guidance.
⚠️ Warning from our surgical team: Skipping rehab or letting your dog “just run a little” too early is the #1 reason surgeries fail. Patience pays off.
Why Choose GRAH Kingston for Your Dog’s Surgery
At Gardiners Road Animal Hospital, we’re more than just caregivers — we’re devoted animal enthusiasts committed to providing exceptional care for your beloved pets. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Experienced veterinary team — Years of orthopedic and soft-tissue surgical expertise
- Comprehensive surgical services — From spays/neuters to advanced orthopedic procedures
- Emergency care during business hours — We’re here when you need us most
- Transparent pricing — Detailed estimates before any procedure
- Personalized aftercare plans — Tailored recovery protocols for every patient
- Convenient Kingston location — Right on Fortune Crescent, easy parking, welcoming environment
With compassion as our cornerstone, our team goes above and beyond to ensure the health and happiness of your furry family members. We treat your pets as if they were our own.
Ready to Book a Consultation?
📞 Call +1 613-634-5838 or book online for a comprehensive surgical evaluation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does TPLO surgery take?
The procedure typically takes 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on complexity. Most dogs are discharged the same day or the following morning.
Can a dog’s ACL heal without surgery?
Unfortunately, no. Unlike human ACLs that can sometimes heal with rest, the canine CCL does not regenerate. Conservative management may help very small dogs but rarely works for dogs over 30 pounds.
Will my dog limp forever after ACL surgery?
No. Approximately 90% of dogs return to full function after TPLO surgery with proper rehabilitation. Some mild arthritis is expected long-term but is typically well-managed.
Do you offer emergency veterinary care at GRAH Kingston?
Yes. We provide emergency care services during our regular business hours (Mon–Fri 8am–8pm, Sat & Sun 9am–6pm). For after-hours emergencies, we can refer you to the nearest 24-hour emergency veterinary clinic in Kingston.
How do I prepare my dog for surgery?
Our team provides detailed pre-surgical instructions including fasting guidelines, medication adjustments, and what to bring on surgery day. We also provide comprehensive post-operative care instructions so you feel confident every step of the way.
Is TPLO surgery available at GRAH for all dog sizes?
Our surgical team will evaluate your dog’s size, breed, activity level, and overall health to recommend the best surgical approach — whether that’s TPLO, TTA, or extracapsular repair.
Final Thoughts: Act Fast, Choose Wisely
A torn ACL feels like a crisis in the moment — and in many ways it is. But it’s also one of the most successfully treated orthopedic injuries in veterinary medicine. With the right surgical team, a clear recovery plan, and access to quality veterinarian care near me right here in Kingston, the vast majority of dogs return to full, happy, active lives.
If your dog is showing signs of an ACL tear, don’t wait. The most important step is the first one: get a professional diagnosis. The team at GRAH Kingston is here to walk you through every option, every cost, and every step of recovery.
📞 Contact Gardiners Road Animal Hospital
Phone: +1 613-634-5838
Email: info@grahkingston.com
Address: 625 Fortune Crescent #2, Kingston, ON K7P 0L5
Hours: Mon–Fri 8am–8pm | Sat & Sun 9am–6pm
Book Appointment Online →
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