A torn ACL in dogs is troublesome and requires some rehab, starting with rest (contingency), healing and (nourishment), and soon therapy. It is a common sporting injury in both humans and dogs (I tore my left knee twice, ending a less-than-impressive footballing career…) It’s not the end of the world. While unsettling as the joint loses stability, it’s not particularly painful (until it snaps!) They often recover well. The best way to do that as well as prevent your dog’s ACL tear is outlined below.
Home Treatment Options for a Dog CCL Injury
Before attempting to treat your dog at home for a torn CCL, you should speak with a veterinarian. This is a serious injury, and if it is not treated properly, your dog could experience much worse results. However, you and your veterinarian can agree on a few things you can do at home to speed up the healing process.
Strict rest and veterinary painkillers or anti-inflammatory drugs can significantly help. Graham emphasizes that you should never administer aspirin or any other human medications to your dog because they pose a risk of serious illness or even death. So get those meds from your vet.
In order to try and lessen the weight on the injured joints, you can also ask your veterinarian if changing your dog’s diet is the best option if they are overweight.
Dog Breeds Most Susceptible to CCL Injuries
Any dog can injure their ACL, says Graham. However, she claims that larger, more powerful dogs are more likely to sustain more severe wounds, such as:
Due to increased pressure on the ligament, overweight dogs of any breed are more prone to these injuries.
Symptoms of CCL Injuries in Dogs
CCL injuries are one of the most prevalent orthopedic issues in canines.
The symptoms of a dog with a torn CCL can range from a hint of lameness to being unable to bear weight on the injured leg, depending on the severity of the injury. Swelling on the inside of the knee may also be present in dogs with CCL injuries.
The “drawer sign” is one clue that canines have a torn CCL. This means that the dog’s tibia can be pulled forward in a manner akin to a drawer opening when the veterinarian holds the dog’s femur in place. The CCL may still be damaged even though the drawer sign is absent.
Your dog’s knee will likely be X-rayed by your veterinarian in addition to a thorough physical examination to determine the extent of injury and rule out any other potential lameness causes. Your veterinarian will be able to determine whether there is fluid or arthritis in the joint, as well as whether any small pieces of bone were broken off along with the ligament when it ruptured, using X-rays.
FAQ
Can a dog’s torn ACL heal on its own?
A dog can indeed recover from an ACL tear without surgery. Dogs without treatment or surgical intervention will adapt over time. Following the injury, their body will start to heal and adjust on its own over the following few months.
Can a dog still walk with a torn ACL?
The short answer is that a dog can walk despite having a torn ACL. But even if it’s just a sprain, they shouldn’t walk on it if it’s unsupported.
How can you tell if dog torn ACL?
Dogs who exhibit joint stiffness while resting after physical activity may have torn their ACLs. Difficulty jumping or rising from the floor. Sitting with one hind leg stuck out to the side. Clicking sound when your dog walks.
What does a dog walk like with a torn ACL?
A dog will feel sudden pain and frequently hold their leg up when their ACL tears. Depending on the extent of the tear, they may then decide to wait a day or two before putting any weight on the leg again. When they do, they will likely limp for several weeks.