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.
Where is the ACL in dog?
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is a thin connective tissue
in the middle of our knees
which connects the lower leg bone to the upper leg bone. In dogs we call this connective tissue is called the cranial cruciate ligament (CCL).
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.
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.
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.
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.
Where is a dog’s knee on back leg?
The stifle or knee is the joint that sits
on the front of the hind leg in line with the abdomen
. The lower thigh (tibia and fibula) is the part of the hind leg beneath the knee to the hock. The hock is the oddly shaped joint that makes a sharp angle at the back of the dog’s leg (corresponds to a human’s ankle)
Should you walk a dog with a torn ACL?
The bottom line is,
yes, a dog can walk with a torn ACL
. However, they should never walk on it if it’s unsupported, even if it’s just a sprain. If you want to learn more, visit Doggy Brace today.
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
4
, which often includes the exam, surgery, anesthesia, operating room use, hospitalization, medications, checkups and physical therapy.
Can an xray show a torn ACL in a dog?
Pet owners regularly question why we take X-rays to diagnose an ACL tear. After all, an ACL is “soft tissue”, and
you can’t see it on X-rays
. This is actually a very valid point.
What happens if a torn ACL is not repaired?
If nothing is done,
the ACL injury may turn into chronic ACL deficiency
. Your knee may become more and more unstable and may give out more often. The abnormal sliding within the knee also can hurt cartilage. It can trap and damage the menisci in the knee and can also lead to early osteoarthritis.
