TPLO Tip #1 - Checklist in Preparation for Recovery

Make a TPLO friendly home.

Large Towels (inexpensive) to cover bed - can be washed.
2 fluffy comforters - can be washed
A walkabout belly band or sling (can also use a towel) to assist in walking if needed and getting in and out of car.
Soft gel ice packs (or frozen corn/peas, can be refrozen)
Heating pad
Extra water bowl, non tip for x-pen
Made and froze Chicken soup (broth with noodles and carrots) in meal size containers
Made and froze lean ground beef (cooked) and rice mixture in meal size containers
Canned plain pumpkin if needed to get them pooping
No knock signs for doors
4 x 4' x-pen (he's a large dog and was never crate trained, it'll be big enough for me to get in as well and sleep with him)
(I actually got two of these, cause they were a great price, and I'll put the other one outside for the nice days when we both want some fresh air - check out CDN site: www.treasurecoast.ca )
54" Memory foam dog bed to ensure he's as comfy as possible
2 kongs which will be filled with either yogurt or baby food (frozen) to keep him busy.
Anti Septic wash
Bag Balm (http://www.bagbalm.com/) for scar once staples are out.
Ramp for the front stairs outside, ramp for car
Baby gates (still have from puppy days) to block off stairs and areas of the house where it will not be safe for him to go.
E-collar to keep him from licking
Halti head collar so he doesn't pull
Taking a daily temperature-if increased as 102 will catch most infections ASAP. A digital rectal thermometer is inexpensive and the easiest to use
Vasoline needed too

Extras:
Looking into Arnica and Symphytum (Comfrey) homeopathic remedies to aid in healing process. But be sure you ask your surgeon and vet about possible adverse reactions drug interactions. They may not want to risk it.
Rescue Remedy

Great book called "The Veterinarian's Guide to Natural Remedies for Dogs"

Life jacket for dogs, so I can get him in the pool once he is in stage 2 recovery (will be used after for boating on the river)