TPLO / ACL Surgery Quotes: What Owners Actually Paid

Updated 2026-08-18 · Plain-English guide for pet owners

TPLO and ACL/CCL surgery quotes vary widely because the total can include imaging, anesthesia, implants, surgery time, medications, hospitalization, and follow-up. Before saying yes, ask what is included and what would make the final bill higher.

what the pricing would look like

  • Ask whether the quote is for TPLO, lateral suture, or another procedure because the techniques cost different amounts.
  • Check whether imaging, implants, anesthesia, medications, e-collar, and recheck visits are included.
  • Specialist orthopedic surgery commonly costs more than general-practice surgery.

the surgery seems incredibly high

  • A high quote may include specialist care, implants, imaging, longer anesthesia time, and follow-up.
  • Ask for a line-by-line estimate so you can compare the same items across clinics.
  • Ask what would change the final bill after surgery starts.

what vet you used and what the cost was

  • Owner-to-owner comparisons help with ballpark expectations, but region, pet size, procedure type, and clinic type matter.
  • Use published ranges and itemized quotes together instead of relying on one number.
  • If the quote is outside your budget, ask about medically appropriate alternatives and payment options.

Frequently asked questions

Are TPLO and ACL surgery the same cost?

Not necessarily. TPLO is one surgical approach for cranial cruciate ligament disease; other procedures may have different costs.

What should be in a TPLO quote?

Ask about imaging, anesthesia, implants, surgery, medications, hospitalization, and follow-up.

Can I ask another clinic for a quote?

Yes. Make sure you compare the same procedure and included services.

Got a bill in front of you?

Upload it and we’ll explain every line — free during early access.

Join the waitlist

Sources

  1. CareCredit — Dog ACL surgery cost
    The national average cost of canine ACL surgery is $3,525, but ranges from $2,793 to $6,417.
  2. PetMD — Help with vet bills
    Your vet should provide you with estimates for each option so you can pick what is best for you.

More guides & cost references

Why Is My Vet Bill So Expensive?How to Read a Vet Bill, Line by LineQuestions to Ask Your Vet Before Paying a Large BillVet Bill Estimate vs. Final Bill: Why They DifferCan You Negotiate a Vet Bill?Is My Vet Bill Normal? How to TellMy Vet Quote Was Lower Than the Final Bill — Why?How to Ask for an Itemized Vet BillDog Dental Cleaning Quote: What's a Normal Range?Vet Gave Me an Estimate — What Should I Check Before Saying Yes?How Much Does TPLO Surgery for Dogs Cost?How Much Does Dog ACL (CCL) Surgery Cost?How Much Do Dog X-Rays Cost?