Weeks 5–8: Rebuilding strength and returning to normal life
The first four weeks keep your dog safe. Weeks 5–8 get them back to the dog they were — or better. This course covers progressive strengthening, muscle re-building, and a structured return-to-activity protocol that protects the joint long-term.
Part 2 · Weeks 5–8
$97
USD · Instant digital access · Lifetime access
💡 Haven't done Part 1 yet?
Get both TPLO Part 1 & 2 for $165 USD instead of $194 USD
Week-by-week video exercise demonstrations
Strengthening & muscle re-building protocols
Return-to-activity milestone framework
Gait re-training & compensatory movement correction
Printable pocket sheets for each week
Lifetime access — revisit any time
What to expect
Week by week — what happens in Weeks 5–8
By week 5 your dog should be using the leg — but they're nowhere near full strength or stability. This is the phase that determines how well they recover long-term.
Transitioning from restriction to rehabilitation
Week 5 begins the active rehabilitation phase. Crate rest is greatly reduced, and the focus shifts from "preventing harm" to "building function." Muscle atrophy will be visible — this is normal, and this week begins addressing it with targeted strengthening exercises.
Progressive loading and balance work
Week 6 introduces balance and proprioception exercises — the work that rebuilds your dog's sense of where their leg is in space. This is critical for preventing re-injury. Video demonstrations show you how to progress safely based on your dog's response.
Increasing duration and complexity
Week 7 extends walk duration significantly and introduces more complex movement patterns. Off-lead activity remains restricted, but your dog's improved confidence and strength will be clearly visible. Gait assessment at this stage helps identify any compensatory patterns that need correcting before full release.
Return-to-activity protocol & discharge assessment
Week 8 is the final milestone — typically including a veterinary follow-up and radiograph, and the beginning of controlled off-lead activity for many dogs. This course helps you understand when your dog is truly ready, what "full recovery" actually looks like, and how to maintain joint health long-term.
Course contents
Everything included in Part 2
🎥
Progressive exercise video demonstrations
Every week's exercises are demonstrated clearly on video — from the right technique for hill walking to correct proprioception board use. No guesswork at any stage.
💪
Strengthening & muscle re-building protocols
Targeted exercises to address the significant muscle atrophy that occurs during the restricted phase, progressively loading the joint and rebuilding function.
🎯
Return-to-activity milestone framework
Clear milestones that tell you when your dog is ready to progress — rather than just counting down weeks. Every dog's recovery is slightly different; this framework accommodates that.
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Gait re-training & compensatory movement correction
Dogs often develop compensatory movement patterns during restricted recovery. This module covers how to identify and address these before they become permanent habits.
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Pocket sheets for each week
One printable reference card per week with that week's exercises, progression criteria, and key checkpoints. Keep it handy during walks and exercise sessions.
♾️
Lifetime access
One-time payment, no subscription. Revisit any module at any time. Useful for dogs facing recovery later in life, or if you want to build on the programme for ongoing fitness maintenance.
What owners say
From owners who've completed the full programme
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about the Part 2 course
Do I need to have done Part 1 first?
Ideally, yes — Part 1 covers the foundational recovery period (Weeks 1–4), and Part 2 builds directly on that. However, if your dog is already past the first four weeks of recovery and you're coming in at Week 5 or later, you can enrol in Part 2 directly. If you're pre-surgery, the bundle (both parts) is the best way to begin.
My dog's progress has been slower than the timeline. Is Part 2 still relevant?
Yes. The week numbers in the course are a guide, not a rigid prescription. Bone healing varies — some dogs reach the Part 2 milestones by week 5, others by week 7 or later depending on age, health, and other factors. The course covers readiness criteria so you can assess where your dog is, regardless of calendar weeks.
What equipment do I need for the Week 5-8 exercises?
Some exercises in Part 2 use balance boards, wobble cushions, or cavaletti poles. These don't need to be purchased — the course shows household alternatives. If you do want to invest in any equipment, recommendations with sourcing guidance are provided in the relevant modules.
My vet has cleared my dog at 8 weeks. Does this mean recovery is complete?
Veterinary clearance at 8 weeks typically means the bone is healing as expected and controlled activity can resume. It doesn't mean the dog is fully rehabilitated. Muscle mass, proprioception, and movement quality continue to improve for months after this point. The long-term maintenance section of Part 2 covers what ongoing management looks like for TPLO patients.
Can I book a virtual consultation if I need more personalised guidance?
Absolutely. Virtual consultations with Tania are available for owners anywhere in the world who need assessment and guidance tailored specifically to their dog's situation. These are particularly useful if your dog's recovery is progressing atypically or you have concerns about compensatory movement patterns. Book via the Contact page.
Select your preferred option
Purchase the TPLO Recovery course
Pick the option that works for you — Part 2 only, or the complete bundle with both Parts 1 and 2 at the best price. Don't forget the saving, then click buy now to purchase and get instant access.
Starting from the beginning?
Get the complete 8-week programme from day one. The bundle gives you both Part 1 (Weeks 1–4) and Part 2 (Weeks 5–8) for $165 USD — saving $29 compared to buying separately.
Part 2 · Weeks 5–8
Managing the First Four Weeks at Home
Crate rest, first exercises, warning signs checklist, and the mental enrichment bonus.
$97 USD
Or get both parts for $165 USD — save $29 on the bundle
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