TPLO Surgery from a Board-Certified Surgeon Trusted by Boston Families for 20+ Years

A torn ACL (medically referred to as a CCL: a cranial cruciate ligament) is one of the toughest injuries a dog can face. The decision to move forward with surgery can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to figure it out alone.

Dr. Kechia Davis and her team have performed hundreds of TPLO surgeries and are known for their straightforward guidance, advanced training, and compassionate care. Families across the greater Boston area turn to CORE Veterinary Surgical Services for trusted, independent specialty care that puts their dog’s comfort and recovery first.

Why families choose CORE:

  • Board-certified surgeon (DACVS), Cornell & NC State trained
  • 20+ years of surgical experience, with hundreds of TPLO surgeries performed
  • Specialty anesthesia team with 10+ years in the Operating Room
  • Independent, woman-owned practice focused only on surgery

“Dr Davis did two TPLO surgeries on my dog Rue. It was the best decision I could have made for her. She has her legs back! We just got back from a weekend of hiking in the White Mountains- & she did great! Zero issues. You would never know she had surgery.” – Deanna Z.

Does My Dog Really Need TPLO Surgery?

Not every cruciate tear requires TPLO. Some dogs do well with restricted activity or a lateral suture repair. For many medium and large breeds, TPLO provides the best chance at regaining full comfort and avoiding arthritis.

At your exam, your surgeon will explain in plain language:

  • Whether your dog’s tear is partial or complete
  • Which procedure is best for your dog’s size and lifestyle
  • When it’s safe to wait, and when surgery is the better choice

Families often arrive asking: What if it’s only a partial tear? Is my dog too old for surgery? Can we try rest first? You’ll leave with a clear answer and a plan you can feel confident about.

Why CORE Veterinary Surgical Clinict Is Different

Most specialty hospitals in Boston are corporate-owned, where pet owners struggle to even speak with the surgeon. At CORE, your experience is personal from start to finish.

Families tell us this difference matters most: someone picks up the phone, checks in every day, and makes sure you never feel alone in your dog’s recovery.

You’ll have direct communication with your surgeon— no layers of staff between you and your surgeon.

Every surgery includes a dedicated anesthesia technician and a second veterinarian assisting in the OR.

We use state-of-the-art technology, including Ferrari-level CT imaging and advanced pain management protocols.

Pricing is transparent and fair. Our orthopedic exam is $200, and surgical estimates are reviewed with you before any decision.

Meet Dr. Kechia Davis

Dr. Kechia Davis has dedicated her career to helping pets regain mobility. A 1999 graduate of Cornell University, she went on to complete a surgical internship and residency at North Carolina State University and became a board-certified Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons in 2007.

She later served on faculty at the University of Florida-Gainesville before returning to the Greater Boston area, where she practiced for 15 years before founding CORE Veterinary Surgical Services. Over the course of her career, Dr. Davis has published in Veterinary Surgery and other leading journals, serves as a peer reviewer, and is frequently invited to speak at national and local conferences. She has also mentored interns and residents, helping to train the next generation of veterinary surgeons.

Families describe her as straightforward, patient, and compassionate — someone who combines technical skill with clear, pressure-free guidance to make complex decisions easier.

Your first visit includes a complete orthopedic evaluation and gait analysis, plus imaging if needed. Dr. Davis and her team manage every detail. An experienced anesthesia technician is dedicated solely to your dog’s safety, while Dr. Davis and an assisting veterinarian perform the procedure with precision. The first two weeks are the hardest, but you won’t face them alone. We’ll guide you through crate setup, bathroom breaks, and activity restrictions. You’ll receive step-by-step instructions and can call us any time with questions. What to Expect with TPLO Surgery
 The Exam Surgery Day Recovery

Typical TPLO recovery timeline

The goal of TPLO is more than fixing a ligament — it’s restoring your dog’s quality of life. Many families are amazed at how quickly their pets regain energy. With supplements, controlled exercise, and our ongoing support, most dogs go back to running, climbing stairs, and living comfortably again.

What Families Say

Our lab had both knees repaired here and is back to running like before. The care team answered every call and supported us through recovery. — Ilana G. We chose Core after a frustrating corporate hospital experience. The difference was night and day — direct access to the surgeon, clear answers, and excellent care. — C. Medeiros The first two weeks were tough, but the team checked in constantly. Six months later, our shepherd is back on the trails with no limp. — Ilana G. Our lab had both knees repaired here and is back to running like before. The care team answered every call and supported us through recovery. — Ilana G. We chose Core after a frustrating corporate hospital experience. The difference was night and day — direct access to the surgeon, clear answers, and excellent care. — C. Medeiros The first two weeks were tough, but the team checked in constantly. Six months later, our shepherd is back on the trails with no limp. — Ilana G.

Hundreds of families across Greater Boston have trusted Dr. Davis for TPLO surgery. Most of our patients walk comfortably within two weeks and return to full activity within four to six months.

Cost and Insurance

Our orthopedic exam fee is $200. At that appointment, you’ll receive a personalized surgical estimate based on your dog’s size, the complexity of the tear, and whether one or both knees require surgery.

Most major pet insurance providers cover TPLO if the injury isn’t pre-existing. Coverage for the second knee varies, and our team will help you prepare claims so nothing gets missed.

Questions We Hear (and Answer!) Every Day

Do both knees usually tear?

About half of dogs who injure one cruciate ligament will eventually injure the other.

Can both knees be repaired at once?

Sometimes, yes. Dr. Davis will help determine if that’s the safest route for your dog.

How long will recovery take?

Most dogs walk comfortably within 4–6 weeks and return to full activity by 4–6 months.

What if it’s only a partial tear?

Some partial tears stabilize with rest, but many progress to a full tear. We’ll help you decide when to wait and when to book a TPLO surgery as your best next step.

What’s the difference between a board-certified surgeon and a general vet who does TPLO?

Board-certified surgeons complete years of advanced residency training, pass rigorous exams, and perform orthopedic surgeries daily. They are trained to manage complications and follow evidence-based techniques. General veterinarians may perform TPLOs, but without this level of specialization.

Take the Next Step

TPLO surgery is a big decision — but with the right surgeon, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At CORE Veterinary Surgical Services, you’ll have the confidence of a board-certified surgeon, the support of a seasoned team, and guidance every step of the way.