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Question:

dog on couch post tplo

I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed and could really use some advice. My sweet Labrador, Max, recently underwent TPLO surgery to help with his torn ACL, and everything went well, thank goodness. But here's the thing—I’m concerned about his recovery at home, specifically about letting him relax on the couch. Max loves being up there, it’s his favorite spot, but I’m worried it might hurt his healing process. The vet mentioned avoiding stairs and high-impact activities, but didn’t specifically say whether jumping on and off the couch is a bad idea. He’s about 4 weeks post-op now and seems to be feeling pretty good, wagging his tail and all, but I really don’t want to jeopardize anything. Do any of you have experience with this? How did you manage keeping your dog comfortable without allowing them up on the couch, or should we still avoid it completely? Any tips or product recommendations for making a safe, cozy space would be super helpful. Thanks in advance!

Answer:

Hi there! It sounds like your dog has recently undergone a TPLO, or Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy, which is a common surgical procedure to repair a torn cruciate ligament in the knee. It's great to hear they're resting on the couch, as rest is crucial in the recovery process.



After surgery, it’s normal for dogs to want to rest more, and they might seem a bit sore or hesitant to move. Make sure your dog has a comfy spot where they can't jump off, as this can stress the recovering leg. You might use a non-slip ramp or gently carry them when needed. Ice packs wrapped in a towel can be applied to the knee for about 10-15 minutes several times a day to reduce swelling.



Keep an eye out for any signs of complications, such as excessive swelling, redness at the incision site, or if your dog seems to be in a lot of pain or isn't bearing weight on the leg at all. A fever or unusual lethargy could indicate an infection.



It's crucial to follow your vet’s guidelines on activity restriction and any prescribed medications. If you’re unsure about anything or notice worrying symptoms, it’s a good idea to book a video consult with us at Dial A Vet. We’d be happy to help and ensure your dog’s recovery is on track!

Answered by

Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet

June 23, 2025

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The "Ask a Vet" forum on Dial A Vet offers general information and helpful tips on pet health, but it's not a substitute for professional veterinary care. The advice here doesn't create a veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and our vets can't diagnose or treat your pet remotely. For emergencies or specific medical concerns, always contact your local veterinarian immediately. Your pet's health is unique, and decisions should only be made after consulting with a qualified professional. By using this forum, you acknowledge these limitations and agree to seek in-person veterinary advice for all your pet's health needs. View our content guidelines.
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