Orthopedic Surgery
Helping pets get back to the life they love.
A clearer path for limping, knee injuries, fractures, kneecap problems, and joint pain.
Most common
Back-leg limp or possible CCL tear
We perform around 1,200 TPLOs per year, helping dogs with CCL/ACL injuries get back to an active life after injury.
Injury
Fracture or trauma
For falls, accidents, obvious pain, or suspected broken bones that may need surgical repair and a clear recovery plan.
Ongoing
Skipping, stiffness, or joint pain
For kneecap instability, OCD lesions, or recurring lameness that keeps coming back despite rest or routine care.
What COVE Treats
Find the right path for your pet's pain.
CCL / ACL knee injuries
For back-leg limping, toe-touching, trouble rising, or a suspected CCL tear.
Kneecap instability
For slipping patellas, skipping gait, and repeated discomfort.
Advanced CCL + MPL cases
Including CCL + MPL cases with unusual tibial anatomy.
Fracture repairs
For broken bones, traumatic injuries, and pets who need a surgical repair plan.
OCD repairs
For painful cartilage lesions and persistent lameness.
Knee Pain / Limping
Is my pet a TPLO candidate?
If your dog is limping on a back leg, these are common signs that a CCL/ACL injury may need an orthopedic evaluation.
What Happens Next
A simple path from first concern to recovery.
Evaluate
Symptoms, exam findings, records, and imaging.
Explain
What is wrong, what can wait, and what may need surgery.
Procedure
The right repair, performed by the orthopedic team.
Recovery
Home care, rechecks, and support as your pet heals.
Clintonville / Columbus
Not sure where your pet fits?
Tell us what you are seeing: which leg, when it started, whether your pet can bear weight, and whether your veterinarian already took X-rays.
Success Stories
Life-changing mobility stories start at COVE.
"My dog Haku had TPLO surgery, we were so scared about this surgery because seems uncertain but COVE guided us through very well instructed and let us know what should I expect. I am truly appreciate and Haku recovering good. Thank you!"
"The entire staff at COVE treated Ryan like their own during both his PCL repairs. He is back to full sprints well ahead of schedule and plans to compete again for Best Good Boy award this summer."
"We have done 2 CCL's repair and TPLO's for our now 9 year old Cockalier and COVE has been amazing. Dr. Howard and his team have been great and extremely kind. Highly recommend them!"
Quick Answers
Common questions before an orthopedic consult.
How do I know if my dog may need a TPLO?
A back-leg limp, toe-touching, trouble rising, skipping stairs, or a limp that improves and returns can all point to a CCL/ACL injury. An orthopedic evaluation helps confirm what is happening and whether TPLO is the right next step.
What does TPLO surgery do?
TPLO changes the mechanics of the knee so the joint can function without relying on the damaged ligament in the same way. The goal is to help dogs return to a full, active life after a CCL/ACL injury.
Does COVE only perform TPLOs?
No. TPLO is one of COVE's most common orthopedic procedures, but the team also treats kneecap instability, complex CCL + MPL cases, fractures, traumatic injuries, OCD lesions, and persistent lameness.
What should I bring to a consultation?
Bring any exam notes, X-rays, referral records, medication history, and a clear timeline of what you have noticed at home. If you are not sure what you have, COVE can help you sort through the next step.
What happens after orthopedic surgery?
COVE will walk you through home care, activity restriction, recheck timing, and what to watch for as your pet heals. The plan is built around the procedure, your pet, and the recovery support they need.