Norman, a 5-year-old Japanese mastiff weighing 190 pounds, has saved the lives of 15 dogs through blood donation. But when he began limping in mid-2021, his owner, Jeff King, knew something was wrong.

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A Lifesaver in Need

“Norman is like my child,” Jeff said. “He’s been donating blood since he was a puppy, just like family members before him. Seeing him in pain was very upsetting—I was constantly worried about him.”

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Jeff took Norman to veterinarian Tim Preston, BVSc, DACVS-SA, for an evaluation.

“The cause was a torn cranial cruciate ligament in the left hind knee,” Dr. Preston explained. “It was a slow wear-and-tear injury, which is especially common in animals of Norman’s size."

Why CCL Tears Are Common in Large‑ and Giant-Breed Dogs

Large‑ and giant-breed dogs are more likely to tear their cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) because their size places extra stress on the knee joint. Over time, this stress can weaken the ligament, making it more vulnerable to injury during normal activities like running, turning quickly, or jumping.

Breeds at higher risk include Labrador retrievers, golden retrievers, rottweilers, German shepherds, and giant breeds like mastiffs and Great Danes.

For big dogs like Norman, a CCL tear can be especially limiting to their mobility—making early diagnosis and treatment very important.

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Advanced TPLO Treatment for Norman

To help stabilize the knee and prevent further joint damage, Dr. Preston recommended a tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) using the Arthrex 4.5 mm TPLO Locking Plate System—designed specifically for large- and giant-breed dogs.

A CCL tear in a dog is the equivalent of an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear in humans; it makes the knee painful and unstable. TPLO surgery works by adjusting the angle of the top of the shinbone so the knee no longer slips forward. This restores stability in the knee and helps dogs like Norman get back to comfort.

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Next Steps for Norman’s Surgery

To help cover the cost, Jeff launched a GoFundMe campaign that raised over $8000. Arthrex also donated the 4.5 mm TPLO plate and screws made for large‑ and giant-breed orthopedic cases.

“Dogs like Norman and their owners are integral to helping other pets in need,” said Product Manager Matthew Houbre. “We knew by donating the plate and screws, we’d be helping Norman and the future animals he would save.”

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In October 2021, Dr. Preston performed the TPLO procedure.

“The placement of the plate and screws was sublime,” he said. “The Arthrex 4.5 mm TPLO System is my favorite because there’s no need to fidget with screw trajectory or plate contouring; it fits smoothly. The case was perfect.”

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Returning to Full Health After TPLO Surgery

Norman recovered at home over the next several weeks. Like all dogs healing from TPLO surgery, he required a structured plan with many important components—such as strict rest, short controlled walks, and close monitoring—and Jeff followed that plan every step of the way.

“I’m very happy and grateful,” Jeff said. “Norman is a huge part of my life and our community in the way he gives and helps others.”

Dr. Preston added, “Helping an animal like Norman, who helps others, is very rewarding and the pinnacle of giving back.”

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Arthrex Vet Systems Helps Pets of All Sizes

Whether your pet is a giant breed like Norman or a tiny chihuahua, Arthrex Vet Systems designs implants and techniques to support safe, effective orthopedic care for dogs of all sizes.

If your pet is injured or struggling to walk comfortably, talk to your veterinarian about Arthrex solutions.

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