The ACL in dogs. The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is a thin connective tissue
in the middle of our (human) knees
. This connective tissue in dogs is called the cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) and it connects their bone below the knee (tibia) to their bone above the knee (femur).
Can a dog’s ACL tear heal on its own?
It is entirely possible for a dog to recover from an ACL tear without surgery
. Many dogs heal through surgery alternatives like orthopedic braces and supplements. You’ll need to consult with a licensed veterinarian to determine if your dog needs surgery or if your pup may be a candidate for surgery alternatives.
Can a dog still walk with a torn ACL?
In most cases dogs can walk with a torn ACL
. This walk is typically with a limp that varies in severity from the ability to put very little, if any, weight on the injured hind leg to almost a normal gate.
How do I know if my dogs leg injury is serious?
- Dangling limb (dislocation)
- Swelling.
- Hot limb.
- Obvious break or unnatural angle.
How much does it cost to repair a torn ACL in dogs?
ACL surgery in dogs (technically called CCL surgery) typically costs
between $750 and $5,000 per knee
. Costs vary based on the specific surgical procedure performed, your dog’s size, and other factors. Unfortunately, ACL injuries are pretty common in dogs.
Is a torn ACL painful for a dog?
A torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is a common injury in dogs, which may cause hind-leg lameness. This injury occurs when the ACL in the dog’s knee joint stretches or tears, causing either acute or chronic pain.
Although a torn ACL is painful for your dog
, it can recover with rest and medication.
What can I give my dog for a torn ACL?
- Physical therapy.
- Chiropractic adjustments.
- Acupuncture.
- Massage.
- Nutrition.
- Use of a leg brace.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Anti-inflammatory supplements.
How do you fix a torn ACL on a dog?
The best way to restore stability to your dog’s knee joints and return her to an active, high-quality life is to
surgically repair her damaged cranial cruciate ligament
. When people undergo ACL surgery, surgeons graft a section of cadaver ligament to repair or replace the damaged tissue.
What to do if your dog is limping but not crying?
It is best to
get your pet evaluated by a vet who can do a lameness exam to localize where the problem is on the leg
. They will be able to recommend the appropriate treatment, whether it is just anti-inflammatory medication or potential surgery if the injury is involving the ligament.
Why is my dog limping but not in pain?
Some minor injuries can lead to limping without pain, such as a minor tear to their ACL, minor patella luxation, or minor sprains
. Medically speaking, sprains harm the ligaments that connect bones. This can lead to joint damage if not properly taken care of.
Should I wrap my dogs leg if he’s limping?
Depending on the type of surgery, you’ll need to keep your dog quiet and limit his activity for a week or longer.
The vet may use a bandage or brace to support the joint
. If your dog moves too much or too soon after surgery, they could re-injure himself.
When should a dog with a torn ACL be put down?
If your vet tells you that there is a low success rate following surgery
, then a dog with torn ACL may be a candidate for euthanasia. Additionally, a dog that can’t eat, drink, sleep stand up, or walk normally will live a poor quality of life.
How much is knee surgery for a dog?
In general pet owners can expect cat and dog TPLO surgery cost to average
$3,500 to $5,000
and capsular suture stabilization to cost between $1,200 to $1,500
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, which often includes the exam, surgery, anesthesia, operating room use, hospitalization, medications, checkups and physical therapy.
