Dog knee surgery
in Michigan.
Does your dog need
knee surgery?
Knee injuries are one of the most common orthopedic problems in dogs. The signs can be subtle at first — a skip in their step, a limp after exercise — or sudden and severe.
- Sudden hind-limb lameness
- Holding one hind leg up while standing
- Sitting with the leg out to the side
- Decreased activity or reluctance to walk
- Popping or snapping sound from the knee
- Swelling around the knee joint
Knee surgeries we perform.
TPLO Surgery
Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy — the gold standard for CCL (ACL) tears in dogs. Changes the bone geometry so the joint is stable without the ligament. 95% return to full function. $3,950/leg flat fee.
Learn more →MPL Correction
Medial Patellar Luxation correction — for dogs whose kneecap slides out of its groove. Involves deepening the trochlear groove and/or moving the tibial crest to realign the patella.
Lateral Suture
An older technique for CCL tears in small dogs (<30 lbs). Uses a synthetic suture to stabilize the joint. Less commonly recommended than TPLO but appropriate for select cases.
Joint Stabilization
Surgical stabilization for collateral ligament injuries, multi-ligamentous instability, and other complex knee conditions.
Dog knee surgery FAQs.
What are the signs my dog needs knee surgery?
Lameness in a hind leg — sudden or gradual. Holding the leg up while standing. Sitting with the affected leg out to the side. Decreased activity or reluctance to jump. A popping or snapping sound from the knee. Your primary vet can confirm with an exam and X-rays.
What types of dog knee surgery does WMVO perform?
We perform TPLO for CCL tears, MPL correction for luxating patellas, and joint stabilization for other knee injuries. Dr. Smith will recommend the right procedure based on your dog's exam and X-rays.
How much does dog knee surgery cost in Michigan?
TPLO surgery at WMVO is $3,950 per leg — flat fee. MPL correction and other procedures are quoted at your consultation. No hidden fees.
How long does dog knee surgery recovery take?
TPLO recovery is 8–12 weeks with progressive return to activity. MPL recovery is typically 6–8 weeks. We provide a detailed recovery protocol at discharge.
Is TPLO better than the lateral suture technique?
For dogs over 30 lbs, TPLO consistently outperforms lateral suture. TPLO changes the bone geometry so the joint is stable without relying on the ligament. Lateral suture tries to replace the ligament with an artificial one — which stretches over time. Dr. Smith will recommend the best option for your dog's size and activity level.
Does my dog need a referral to see WMVO?
No. You can call us directly at (616) 364-3333. Your primary vet can refer you if they prefer, but it's not a requirement.
Think your dog needs knee surgery?
Call us — we'll help you figure out what's going on and what to do next. No referral needed.