Comprehensive Knee Care for Dogs
When your dog is limping, reluctant to jump, or suddenly unable to use a back leg, it can be frightening. At Beacon Veterinary Specialists, our orthopedic team focuses on knee problems every day, offering advanced diagnostics, surgery, and hands-on recovery support to restore your dog’s comfort and mobility.
Meet Our Orthopedic Surgeon & Knee Care Team
Our surgery service is led by Dr. Randall Fitch, a board-certified veterinary surgeon with decades of experience treating cruciate ligament injuries, patellar luxation, meniscal tears, and complex knee fractures. As a trusted leader in the bay area in orthopedic surgical care our board‑certified surgeon has more than 30 years of surgical experience.
What sets our knee service apart:
- Specialty-level expertise in knee surgery and advanced joint procedures
- Modern diagnostics, minimally invasive arthroscopy, precision surgical techniques, and advanced pain management and anesthetic monitoring
- A dedicated Recovery Team supporting you and your dog every step of the way
- Close communication with your primary veterinarian
- A compassionate, reassuring approach to every case
How We Diagnose Knee Injuries
Because many knee injuries look similar at home, we start with a comprehensive orthopedic examination, which includes:
- Gait analysis and weight-bearing assessment
- Physical manipulation of the knee for instability (drawer sign, tibial thrust)
- Checking for patellar luxation, swelling, effusion, or pain
- Radiographs (x-rays) to evaluate bone alignment and joint structure
- Arthroscopy or advanced imaging when deeper joint evaluation is needed
This exam also helps rule out other causes, such as hip or spinal conditions, that can mimic the symptoms of knee pain. Once we identify the cause, we walk you through treatment options tailored to your dog’s age, activity level, and long-term comfort.
Your Dog’s Knee Treatment Options
This section provides a quick overview to help you understand what each surgery is and when it’s recommended.
1. Cruciate Ligament Surgery (TPLO & Other Stabilization Techniques)
The cranial cruciate ligament (CCL)—similar to the ACL in people—keeps the knee stable. When it tears, it causes pain, inflammation, and can lead to long-term arthritis. We offer TPLO and other advanced stabilization techniques to restore durable, comfortable function.
You’d consider this when:
- A partial or complete CCL tear is diagnosed
- Your dog shows clear knee instability
- Your dog is medium–large breed, athletic, or highly active
- Lameness persists despite rest and medication
2. Extracapsular Repair
For some dogs with a cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) tear, knee stability can be restored using extracapsular repair (also called lateral suture stabilization). This technique stabilizes the joint without altering the bone by limiting abnormal tibial motion and allowing supportive scar tissue to form for long-term comfort and function. It is most commonly recommended for small and medium-sized dogs with appropriate limb structure, and those who engage in lower levels of activity.
You’d consider this when:
- The knee joint is moving more than it should, confirming ligament damage.
- Your dog is small or medium-sized and well-suited for extracapsular repair
- TPLO isn’t necessary or not ideal
- A meniscal injury may need direct evaluation during surgery
- You’re seeking a dependable option that preserves natural bone anatomy
3. Patellar Luxation Surgery (MPL)
When the kneecap slips out of its groove, it causes skipping steps, intermittent lameness, and eventually arthritis or potential limb deformity. Surgery realigns and stabilizes the patella so it tracks normally.
You’d consider this when:
- Your dog intermittently skips or hops on a hind limb
- The kneecap can be manually moved out of place
- Lameness is frequent or worsening
- Your veterinarian notes structural changes or early arthritis
4. Fracture Repair Involving the Knee
Fractures near the knee joint—such as distal femur or proximal tibia fractures—require precise surgical repair to restore joint alignment and preserve future mobility.
You’d consider this when:
- Your dog suffered trauma and cannot bear weight
- X-rays show a fracture affecting or approaching the knee joint
- Your veterinarian recommends advanced fixation for the best long-term outcome
Recovery & Aftercare — Included With Every Surgery
Every orthopedic surgery at Beacon automatically includes:
- A surgery specific recovery plan
- Medication and pain-management guidance
- A step-by-step rest and activity progression
- Scheduled follow-up appointments
- Access to our dedicated Recovery Team for questions and support
From the first night home to the final return-to-activity, our team ensures you’re never navigating recovery alone.
Why Pet Owners & Veterinarians Trust Beacon
- More than three decades of trusted surgical leadership
- Compassionate, clear communication throughout care
- Modern diagnostics, minimally invasive options, and 24/7 hospital support
- A commitment to treating your pet like our own
Ready to Help Your Dog Move Comfortably Again?
If your dog is limping or your veterinarian has recommended an orthopedic consultation, we’re here for you. Give us a call anytime at (510) 657-6343, or submit a consultation request using the button below!