Animal Care Center & Pet Resort

800 Pulaski Highway

Joppa, MD 21085

Phone 410-676-2525 Fax 410-676-5151

Cruciate Surgery

Torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)

The number one symptom of a torn ACL is limping in the left or right rear leg. Cruciate repair surgery is when we "fool" the knee joint into permitting it to move in a natural fashion by placing an artificial cord or suture along the joint.

What happens to warrant a ACL repair? Some dogs injure their knee by simply chasing a ball or running/jumping. There is usually no weight being put on that leg after being hurt. Without surgery the leg will not improve on it's own.

Surgery is involved and strict recovery instructions are crucial in these cases. After surgery you can expect to make a few visits back to the office so that our doctor can check the incision and ensure that it is healing properly. You also will need to leash walk your dog 2-3 times a day for 20 minutes at a time and practice leg stretches with your dog. This helps with the physical therapy aspect of healing. Also, leash walking will help prevent your pet from over exerting itself and re-injuring the leg. No stairs, jumping or jumping are allowed. It is important to keep your pet as quiet as possible until fully healed. After 6 weeks of recovery, we suggest swim therapy:

Interstate Canine Swim Center

If you are interested in watching a ACL repair click on the following link:

Video of Cruciate Surgery

Animal Care Center & Pet Resort is located at 800 Pulaski Highway Joppa, MD 21085 (410) 676-2525