If your beloved dog has an ACL/CCL injury, a dog ACL brace may seem like an obvious solution. But will a dog knee brace help a dog with a torn ACL? Integrative veterinarian Dr. Julie Buzby shares the pros and cons of the dog ACL brace and whether it’s a preferable option over other treatment methods. Learn the answer to the question, “To brace or not to brace?”
My dog tore his ACL. Is a dog ACL brace an option?
As is the case for most of the conditions veterinarians routinely treat, torn cranial cruciate ligaments (CCL, analogous to the human anterior cruciate ligament, or ACL) have several different treatment options. Many variables influence what treatment option is most appropriate, including:
- Size of the dog
- Severity and chronicity of the tear
- Owner finances
Treatment of CCL tears can include at least four different surgical techniques, medications, supplements, rehabilitation, laser treatment, and complementary modalities (like acupuncture for dogs). We don’t have a “one size fits all” treatment for dog ACL tears. So where do dog knee braces fit in that treatment spectrum?
Interestingly, whether or not a dog knee brace is appropriate for the treatment of a torn cruciate ligament is not murky. It’s not one of those areas where you have a huge diversity of opinion among veterinarians.
Do braces help dogs with a torn ACL?
In general, the veterinary consensus is thumbs down for the concept of a dog ACL brace. Recovery time is significantly longer with a dog brace vs. surgical procedure, such as a TPLO (tibial plateau leveling osteotomy). That said, dog braces may still be a valuable tool in rare cases. Plus, the “supply” for dog knee braces is strong (with a dozen options readily available), indicating high consumer “demand.”
To get to the bottom of this question, we’re going to look at the merit of the dog ACL brace from five perspectives.
1. Gaining the veterinarians’ collective perspective on dog knee braces
In my 25+ years of experience as a veterinarian, the use of a dog knee brace is pretty much never suggested by a veterinarian as the first-choice course of action after diagnosing knee injuries in dogs. The knee brace option is almost always raised by a client who has done internet research at home and is looking for an alternative to dog ACL surgery.
I suspect it’s natural to envision treating your dog’s torn ACL with an ACL brace because we’ve all seen humans walking around with Frankenstein-esque contraptions on their knees for this type of condition.
But here’s where I need to reveal a deep truth: Dogs are not humans. Humans are bipeds, walking on two legs. Dogs are quadrupeds, walking on all 4 legs.
It matters.
it’s rarely a vet’s course of action for our four-legged friends suffering from a torn ACL.
2. Considering a dog’s anatomy
While human anatomy lends itself to a knee brace, a dog’s anatomy does not.
Braces can work well for humans because they mimic the function of the ACL by preventing internal rotation and hyperextension. Dogs’ knees are not designed the same.
Also, humans mostly use our ACLs when flexing our knees into the “crouch” position, for example, while playing sports or doing the limbo. However, canine knees are in this position whenever the dog is standing or gaiting—meaning much of the dog’s day is spent putting stress on his cranial cruciate ligaments.
Non-athletic individuals with a torn ACL can often avoid surgery with conservative treatment. By virtue of their quadruped status, dogs aren’t as lucky.
3. Gathering a research-based perspective—A lack of studies on ACL braces
Besides the anatomical issue, there’s another reason veterinarians aren’t quick to recommend these types of leg braces. There just aren’t a lot of studies out there proving that dog ACL braces work. The few studies that have been conducted show significantly better results with surgery than with braces. And in fact, braces themselves can cause some complications.
4. Consensus views from veterinary specialists and general practitioners on the dog ACL brace
So how do veterinarians feel about knee braces for dogs? I informally asked some of my colleagues for their opinions on the matter. Allow me to present the unofficial party lines:
The Veterinary Surgeon:
“A cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) rupture is a surgical problem. Period. Especially if the ligament injury is associated with a meniscal tear, which 50-75% of them are. Meniscal tears are terribly painful and leg braces can’t help those one bit.
Conservative management (which would include dog knee braces) of a torn ACL in dogs is a bad idea, especially for large dogs. Using a brace and expecting the knee joint to heal and return to normal function is just wishful thinking. The fastest and most effective way to help these dogs get back on their feet is surgery.”
The Vet Rehab Practitioner:
“Rehab can help a dog with a torn ACL more effectively than a brace can. And even if an owner elects for a brace, the dog should still have rehab.”
The General Vet Practitioner who is “pro dog brace”:
“It’s a lot to ask of a client to cough up $5,000 for a stifle joint (knee) surgery. I recommend this type of leg brace for clients who can’t afford surgery because some stability has to be better than nothing. I also recommend braces as an alternative to surgery for dogs who just aren’t good anesthesia/surgical candidates for whatever reason. I see decent results with dog knee braces in my practice. I think they improve quality of life for my patients.”
The General Vet Practitioner who is “anti dog brace”:
“In my experience, dog knee braces cost a lot and don’t produce results. I certainly wouldn’t waste time or money on anything less than a custom brace if the client insisted on getting one, but I’m not a fan.”
5. Sharing my own perspective on the dog ACL brace
I get asked by my clients a lot, “What would you do if it was your dog?” While this can sometimes be a tricky question to answer as a veterinarian, I will share my personal opinion on the matter of dog ACL braces.
Here’s what I would do if my own dog ruptured his cruciate ligament:
As a veterinarian certified in both acupuncture and animal chiropractic, I don’t commonly send dogs off to surgery. I consider myself a very conservative practitioner. I am a huge believer in tincture of time and the body’s ability to heal itself. However, after two decades of caring for lame dogs, I am in the pro-surgery camp for cruciate tears.
This occurs because the ACL is not doing its job of tethering the shin bone in place.
Also, I wholeheartedly agree with the rehab practioners’ stance on rehabilitation as a more effective solution than a brace. Physical therapy is a valuable adjunct for treating ACL tears in dogs. In fact, several studies support the value of rehab for CCL treatment across the board—pre-op, post-op, and even no-op.
solution for treating ACL/CCL tears than a knee brace.
A dog’s unstable knee joint is arthritis waiting to happen
It’s important to set expectations. Without surgery (even with bracing), dogs will never again be “good as new.” Dog knee braces are really a “band-aid” solution. They are to be worn during periods of activity. But dogs can be active in the house spontaneously and whimsically.
When the dog brace is off, the knee joint is unstable enough to develop arthritis, which is the serious long term complication from a torn ACL that we seek to minimize or even prevent. With surgery, dogs often return to full, unrestricted activity, and arthritic changes are expected to progress more slowly.
For more information on canine arthritis, check out some Signs of Arthritis in Dogs and also How to Relieve Arthritis Pain in Dogs.
Custom ACL braces for dogs
An unfortunate truth is that “generic” dog knee braces just don’t cut it. Even within the same breed or size of dog, there is so much variability in their legs that it’s impossible to formulate a brace that will appropriately fit a large population of dogs.
An ill-fitted dog knee brace can do more harm than good. If your dog has torn the cruciate ligament and you plan to use a brace, purchasing a custom brace that is fitted specifically to your dog’s measurements is key. The bad news is that those braces are not cheap, and sometimes cost almost as much as surgery would.
The case of Pete, a middle-aged Irish Setter, who wore a custom dog knee brace
In 25+years of practice, I’ve only had one dog ever get a custom knee brace, at his owner’s insistence. The dog’s name was Pete, and he was a middle-aged Irish Setter. After I diagnosed his torn ACL, his mom brought me five pages stapled together of instructions for measuring for a good fit. We measured Pete and he received his knee brace shortly thereafter. It looked solid and well constructed. It had not been cheap and, holding it in my hands, I understood why.
I continued to care for Pete for many years, and I must confess I was not impressed with the results from his knee brace experience.
He had the right kind of owner to make the leg brace a success; she was meticulous. And because his mom was very conscientious about using it properly, I don’t think it caused him any harm. But my observation was that it did not improve his lameness.
Arthritis set in and became progressive and painful in that knee over the subsequent years. His arthritis progressed at about the same rate as my other patients who manage CCL rupture without surgery or using a brace. So I’m just not sure this expensive, custom made brace made much difference at all.
Two veterinarians’ experiences fitting dogs with ACL braces
Dr. Tanis Walker, DVM—my friend and colleague—has fit three dogs with custom stifle braces with varying success. She has graciously allowed me to share her point of view of dog ACL braces and her photos with you.
stifle brace may include having a cast made.
“I educated the owners on the downsides of stifle braces versus having stifle surgery performed (which is like having a 24/7 internal brace). But the owners were concerned their dogs would not do well for either the surgery or prolonged rehab period, so we moved forward with fitting the dogs for the braces.
The first stifle brace we did was GREAT (dog pictured in photo below). The second two dogs had a lot of fit issues despite multiple casts and remeasures for adjustments. They only work when the dogs wear them (obviously) and you aren’t supposed to leave them on an unattended dog, so how much do they really help? I don’t know. They were fun to do but also stressful—they are $1200-$1500 and if you get the measurements wrong…ugh.”
~Dr. Tanis Walker, DVM
Veterinarian and rehab practitioner, Dr. Mandi Blackwelder, graciously shared this perspective:
“As a rehab practitioner, I agree that it is a surgical disease. Ninety-nine percent of the time that is my preference. However, there are many dogs that surgery is just plain not a good idea — for example, dogs over 14 years old or dogs with heart disease.
Here are some points about stifle braces — and I’ve treated somewhere around 100.
1. It has to be a custom brace with the cast done by a PROFESSIONAL.
Many companies will send dog owners the casting material. I am a vet of 22+ years and I can tell you that it took me MANY years to feel proficient with casts in general AND another 2 or 3 of casting for braces to have the skill to make a consistent cast that reflects the pet’s anatomy enough for a proper fitting brace.
2. It has to have data that it minimizes cranial tibial thrust (CCT).
No data = No dice. If it is not helping CTT, then it is a painful weight on the dog’s leg.
3. The owner needs to be prepared for the dog knee brace to potentially require many adjustments and appointments.
Even with good casting, how the dogs bears weight will determine if areas will rub or not. A proper practitioner or company will work through these with the owner with a grace period after obtaining the brace.
4. It has to have proper suspension to hold it on the leg in the right place.
For example, a Pit Bull has a leg that is narrow at the bottom and big at the top. This dog MUST have a component on the metatarsal region in order to have it not slide down the leg. If it slides down, it is a big painful weight.
5. A dog knee brace is NEVER, EVER a “cheap” alternative to surgery.
In my practice, a stifle brace starts with a consultation to make sure the patient and the owner are a proper fit for a brace ($250), casting ($300), the brace is $1200-$1600, plus rehabilitation ($600). So yes, you are within $1000 of TPLO when all is said and done. So in general, surgery is indeed the way to go.
Fear of anesthesia is not a good reason to not consider TPLO, and proper education about screening and monitoring often help with that. Plus, in larger cities, there is often a traveling anesthesiologist who can be called in. But in those cases where surgery is a bad idea, a brace is a good option with the proper practitioner, proper device, and proper expectations.”
~ Dr. Mandi Blackwelder, DVM
Making an informed decision in partnership with your vet
Ultimately, the job of veterinarians is to provide you information so that you can make an informed choice. With that in mind, here is a list of dog knee brace pros and cons, so you can start a discussion with your vet:
Dog ACL brace cons:
- Cumbersome to put on and keep on
- Potential to slip and rub the skin
- Predisposes to skin disease (One study reported almost half of dogs who wear braces suffer from skin problems caused by the brace)
- The dog will still limp while wearing the brace (for some period of time)
- Relatively expensive ($1000+)
- Doesn’t relieve pain, especially if a meniscal tear is involved
- Needs to be worn long term (possibly for life)
- Possibility of incurring an additional cost for a replacement brace if worn long term
- May put more stress on the opposite hind leg, increasing the chance of injuring that leg
Dog ACL brace pros:
- Cheaper than surgery
- Does not require anesthesia
- Provides joint support for dogs who don’t have surgery
- Less invasive treatment option than surgery
My secret weapon for treating dog ACL tears
I’ll let you in on a little secret for treating cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) ruptures in my canine patients.
Did you know that ligament-related stifle (knee joint) problems occur in horses too? How do we stabilize the stifle in horses? One of the things we do to help is apply horseshoes.
We can apply “horseshoes” to dogs too. They aren’t called “dogshoes”, they are called ToeGrips® dog nail grips. Whether or not the dog has a surgical repair, ToeGrips® provide improved traction and stability to the hind legs.
Take a look at this feedback from a ToeGrips® customer whose dog had ACL surgery:
“Our Yellow Lab, Cali, is 13 and thriving. In her lifetime she has had 2 ACL surgeries on both of her back legs and arthritis has tried to slow her down just a bit… but these ToeGrips have given Cali a newfound confidence on slippery surfaces around the house and have helped maintain her footing in the company of our 1-year-old playful Golden Retriever puppy, Zoey.
We can’t thank you enough for making a product that has brought so much joy to my dog in her golden years!” ~Allison
If you choose “to brace…”
If you choose to pursue the dog knee brace option, I do not judge! Especially if you have an older, less active dog or a smaller dog. I understand that surgery is expensive, and physically and emotionally demanding.
But I draw the line here: If you elect to go with a dog ACL brace, please choose the custom brace—one that is measured and fit for your dog. Make sure your vet is comfortable accurately measuring your dog for the brace, and will help you fit it. If they aren’t, ask for a referral for a vet who has more experience with them.
Here’s a list of reputable companies that manufacture and sell custom braces:
If you choose “not to brace…”
I encourage you to read more about torn ACL treatment options in the happy-ending story of Bailey the Labrador in my article, Torn ACL in Dogs: Signs, Symptoms, Surgery Options.
Finally, wherever you land on the “to brace or not to brace” issue, please work closely with your veterinarian on the decision. By building a trusting relationship with your vet and sharing your questions and concerns, you’ll be a team that champions the common goal—giving your beloved dog the healthiest, happiest life possible.
What questions do you have about a dog ACL brace?
Please comment below. We can all learn from each other.
My dog had ACL surgery about 4 years ago . He is now 13 . The arthritis has significantly increased in that joint . Watching him walk I notice that the leg is wonky , meaning it’s very weak and seems to sway out a bit as he walks right at the knee . He slows down immensely during walks . This is unusual for him as he has been a puller all his life . Started shorter walks . Was thinking a brace may help to stabilize his knee ? He is a mastiff mix and is about 70-75 lbs .
Hi Brenda,
I am sorry your senior guy is struggling with arthritis and mobility issues. While his knee may be the main issue, it would be good to have him evaluated by your vet just to make sure nothing else is contributing. A brace might be helpful, but I highly recommend you talk to a veterinary rehabilitation professional before purchasing one. They can let you know if your boy is a good candidate for a brace and help get him measured and fitted for a custom brace if one is needed. Hoping you can get the answers you need to help your boy continue living his best life. Bless you both!
Hi! My 12 yo Schnoodle tore his ACL recently. He is older and has slowed down substantially; not much running any more and he may try to catch an occasional squirrel which is how he incurred this injury. The vet said relatively quick this is a surgical situation. However he didn’t take any X-rays. Are X-rays needed to diagnose an ACL injury and considering the dogs age and low-activity lifestyle, we’re leaning towards a brace as a less invasive option.
Hi Dave,
I am sorry your senior boy has injured his knee. I understand why you are hesitant to pursue surgery and agree a brace may be a good alternative. I do think it would be wise to have him evaluated by a veterinary rehabilitation professional. They could offer more guidance as to whether he is a good candidate for a brace or not. X-rays are not needed to diagnose an ACL rupture but are helpful to evaluate the level of arthritis formation in the joint which could change the recommendation for the type of surgical procedure performed. If you need an expert opinion, you can always ask for a consultation with an orthopedic surgeon. I will attach links to other articles with more information and great comments from other readers. Hoping you can find the answers you need to make the best choice for your sweet boy. Best wishes and good luck!
1. Dog Torn ACL Treatment Without Surgery: A Rehab Vet’s Approach
2. Torn ACL in Dogs: Signs, Symptoms, Surgery Options
3. TPLO Surgery for Dogs with a Torn Cruciate Ligament
Thank you so much for all your information. I have a 10 year old Silkie, 15.4 lbs. She tore her ACL 4 days ago and my vet wants to do TPLO surgery. It’s really hard for us to spend $3,000.00 for this surgery. Is she a candidate for a fitted brace? Thank you for your time!
Hi Judy,
I am sorry you are facing this difficult situation with your senior pup. Your girl may be a good candidate for a brace, but I would ask for a consultation with a veterinary rehabilitation specialist to get their expert opinion. While a TPLO is a great surgical choice it is definitely not the only one. There are other ways to surgically offer stabilization to the knee (especially in small dogs) that have wonderful outcomes and are not as expensive. Here is a link to another article that discusses these different techniques: TPLO Surgery for Dogs with a Torn Cruciate Ligament
I would encourage you to read about medical management for torn ACLs as well. Here is an article about non-surgical treatment: Dog Torn ACL Treatment Without Surgery: A Rehab Vet’s Approach
There are just too many options to feel like you have to make a decision without knowing all the facts. Hoping you can find the answers you need to feel confident moving forward. Wishing you all the best and please give your sweet girl a hug for me!
Thanks for all this info! I have a 9 y/o GSD mix, 58lbs, who tore her ACL a month ago. I unfortunately didn’t know it was her knee as the only area she was painful in was her hip. Two weeks after the injury I brought her in and not only was it a torn ACL, but I found out for the first time she has moderate hip dysplasia! That makes me so sad b/c now that I know, I think she’s been in pain from that for at least a few years. She also has a grade 3-4 heart murmur and intermittent urinary incontinence. I spoke to two vets, one pro surgery and the other pro brace. I ultimately decided to try the brace because of the cost, long recovery from surgery and b/c of all her other health issues. My thinking was let’s see how this goes for the next 3-4 months (and I’m going to take her to rehab, as well) and then reassess. My questions-will this option make surgery harder if she does end up needing it? I’m worried about her hip dysplasia contributing either way (not to mention murmur w/surgery). I also wonder if the toe grips would help her hips feel better? I just want her to have a good rest of her life as I’m not really sure she’ll live as long with her health issues 🙁 Thank you!
Hi Susan,
I am sorry your Shepherd is having issues with her knee and hip at the same time. I am glad you were planning to incorporate rehab into your girl’s treatment plan as I think you will be very happy with the results. I don’t think it will make the knee surgery any more difficult by postponing it a few months. The extra time may allow a bit more arthritis to develop in the knee, but it is hard to weigh the risks verses benefits of seeing how the brace will impact your dog’s mobility and comfort. I understand your concern about anesthesia with a heart murmur present. A murmur by itself is not necessarily an indication of poor cardiac performance and may not increase the risks of anesthesia. To fully understand the health of your girl’s heart, it would require more in-depth testing (x-rays or ultrasound). ToeGrips could definitely help if your pup is struggling with losing traction when walking on slick or hard surfaces. They help prevent slipping and sliding and give them confidence to move around in their normal environment. If you have any questions about if ToeGrips are right for your girl, feel free to reach out to our amazing customer care team at: [email protected]
I will attach links to other articles with more information on ways to treat cruciate ligament injuries and reduce pain and inflammation. Wishing you and your sweet girl all the best and praying for a full recovery.
1. Dog Torn ACL Treatment Without Surgery: A Rehab Vet’s Approach
2. Torn ACL in Dogs: Signs, Symptoms, Surgery Options
3. TPLO Surgery for Dogs with a Torn Cruciate Ligament
4. Medicine for Hip Dysplasia in Dogs: 10 Tips for Treating Hip Dysplasia
5. Natural Pain Relief for Dogs: 13 Methods
Hi Dr Buzby,
My dog Remy is a 5yr 9mo old pit-bull about 50 ilbs. We were told she had hip dysplasia about 2 years ago and we should consider the reality of eventual surgery. We tried a holistic approach with joint supplements, but eventually took her into surgery. Unfortunately, she was limping again about 2 months after surgery. Our surgeon put her on Prednisone and a cocktail of antibiotics. She lost a lot of weight, presumably from Prednisone and lack of activity. It took two surgeries to get the plate implant out and despite being infection-free at this point, she often limps on her surgical leg (left) and now has obvious pain in her right.
Our Orthopedist has suggested amputating the left leg and performing a TPLO on the right. We got a second opinion and this Orthopedist told us that she advised against the surgery because Remy has had complications, probably built up antibiotic resistance, and has just had a lot done already to her.
She went from being a leash-pulling, energetic, perfect puppy, to this deflated state. Over the last year we thought we might lose her a couple of times just from how bad she was looking. The thought of putting her through 2 more surgeries; an amputation and another TPLO seems insane. Not to mention I’m $25,000 in debt from the past 3 surgeries and treatments related to the complications.
At this point we are trying to pull out all the stops. If there is a brace that might help her gain some muscle by allowing her to move around better, that would be great. If there’s a bit of advice you have, that would be appreciated as well. She doesn’t move very fast and looks pained and unsure when she does step. We also are open to other out-of-the-box rehab methods. She’s a young dog and we were planning on spending a lot more time with her, so even something like building a small pool in the living room to have her swim are options. It should be noted we have tried rehab at a paid facility in our area. We eventually stopped taking her because she would be so sore after each session.
Dear Elijah,
My heart goes out to you as you face this difficult situation with Remy. I am so sorry that after all you have done to help her, she is still painful and cannot enjoy life the way she should. Of course, without examining her myself, it is hard to make specific recommendations. But it might be a good idea to see if there is an integrative vet in your area or one that practices Traditional Chinese Medicine. Have you thought about acupuncture, laser therapy, or a PEMF mat? I will attach links to other articles with more information on ways to deal with chronic orthopedic pain. Hoping you will see some things you could try or discuss with your vet. Also, what pain medications is your pup currently taking? Sometimes it helps to use Amantadine in combination with NSAIDs or opiates to achieve good pain control. While I am not a huge fan of ACL braces, in this case I would say the benefits probably outweigh the risks. Wishing you all the best of luck and praying for relief for your sweet girl.
1. Amantadine for Dogs: Everything You Need To Know
2. How to Relieve Arthritis Pain in Dogs: The Ultimate Guide
3. Dog Arthritis Treatment: 8 Ways to Help a Senior Dog at Home
4. Natural Pain Relief for Dogs: 13 Methods
Hi, thank you for posting great information! My question is that most of the dogs mentioned with a torn ACL are large breeds. I have a 6 yr old Pembroke Corgi with an ACL/CCL tear on her left hind leg. Can you please share your thoughts about surgery or not with my short legged baby. The thought of her being crated for 6 weeks post-op, kills me as I know mentally and emotionally it would torture her to be separated from us. She has to be sure we are safe at all times from anything that might try to kill us. Crating her with a cone of shame would ruin her. Please help. Thank you!
Hi Ruth,
I am sorry your Corgi has injured her knee. No matter the size of the dog, I tend to lean more towards surgical correction. But for smaller dogs, I do think they do fine with the less expensive surgical procedures (extracapsular lateral suture stabilization) than what most large dogs require (TPLO or TTA). Here is a link to an article that discusses all types of surgical options for this condition: TPLO Surgery for Dogs with a Torn Cruciate Ligament
But if you want to forgo surgery, I strongly encourage you to partner with a veterinary rehabilitation professional. They will be instrumental in helping to get your girl on the right track and can monitor her healing and recovery progress. Read more about that here: Dog Torn ACL Treatment Without Surgery: A Rehab Vet’s Approach
Best wishes and good luck to you both!
I came across your article while researching how to help my dog that has CCL in both hind legs. He will have surgery in 2 weeks on his right leg. Unfortunately, his left has gotten worse. I am so worried he won’t be able to get around on one bad leg and one that is healing. I first thought a brace might help but it doesn’t sound like it would. I’m wondering if toe grips would help my lab. I see him chewing them off. I have also started researching different supplements that could aid in pain and recovery. With your extensive background I’d love to hear if you have any suggestions
Hi Krista,
I am sorry your pup is having knee issues but glad to hear you have a surgery appointment already scheduled. I do think ToeGrips could offer some great benefits to your boy during his recovery period. We really don’t have a big problem with dogs chewing them off. Because the ToeGrips only make contact with the toenails and not the skin, most dogs don’t even notice they are there. But should you run into a problem, you can always contact our customer care team and we do offer a 30-day money back guarantee. There are so many great options for joint supplements (and natural treatments/therapies) that help to reduce pain and inflammation. I will attach links to other articles with more information. Wishing your sweet boy a successful surgery and a speedy recovery. Take care and best wishes!
1. Deer Antler Velvet: The Science Behind the Supplement
2. Green Lipped Mussel for Dogs: Help Your Dog’s Joints
3. Natural Pain Relief for Dogs: 13 Methods
4. TPLO Surgery for Dogs with a Torn Cruciate Ligament
5. A Veterinarian Answers Your TPLO Recovery FAQs
Thank you so much for the links and info on toe grips. My pup is only 2 years old. The article on Green Lipid Mussel references senior dogs often. I’m assuming it’s bc the joint problems are more common in seniors. This is still a good fit for a young dog with knee problems, correct?
Hi Krista,
Yes! Green Lipped Mussel is great for all ages. The reason the articles reference senior dogs often is the Dr. Buzby’s site is mainly geared toward the care of senior dogs. But most of the information and advice applies to all ages and stages of life. I encourage you to consider giving Encore Mobility a try. I think you would be happy with the results. 🙂
Hi,
Thank you for your article, I came across it while researching alternatives to TPLO. I have an 11 yr old aussie shepherd dog (30kgs). About 10 months ago he tore his left CCL and had TPLO surgery on this leg ($9000 AUD). He has just torn his right CCl (xrays pending).
I cannot afford another surgery. I am worried about the strength of his left leg to compensate for his lame right and am wondering if bracing both may be an option? I wish I could afford another TPLO but I just can’t.
I’m currently helping him to get up and go outside to the potty while he’s on strict bed rest. I don’t currently have a treatment plan with my vet as Xrays are pending.
I have read many people have had success with custom braces and that surgery was avoided. But it seems most Vets are a hard No on bracing. Not many articles say if the brace is lifelong or if it’s a temporary solution while the dog heals naturally with pain management and/or rehab. Or if bracing is better than not while undertaking alternative treatments.
Your article makes me think surgery is the only option. I’m at a loss what to do.
Hi Ashlee,
I am sorry your senior guy has injured his knee, and you are facing this difficult situation. While I am not a huge fan of braces, sometimes they can be the best option and they definitely have their place. Your boy may be a good candidate for a brace. Also, a TPLO is not the only way to stabilize the knee after tearing a cruciate ligament. There are many surgical options, and some are much less expensive than others. Also, rehabilitation/physical therapy may be able to reduce inflammation and pain enough to avoid surgery (at least for now). I will attach links to other articles with more information. Hoping you can find the advice you need to make the best decision for your sweet boy. You are doing a great job advocating for his health and well-being. Keep up the good work!
1. TPLO Surgery for Dogs with a Torn Cruciate Ligament <--<-- Even though this article is about TPLO surgery it also discusses the other surgical options as well! 2. Dog Torn ACL Treatment Without Surgery: A Rehab Vet’s Approach
3. Torn ACL in Dogs: Signs, Symptoms, Surgery Options
4. Cruciate Ligament Rupture in Dogs: The Partial Tear
My 4 year old Pitt mix Tommy tore his ACL, right back leg. Boy are we struggling hard in deciding what to do. We have friends who say they have had dogs with a torn ACL and it healed relatively well after several months to a year. Others who recommend a doc in an area about a hour from us. We went for a consult which they did free and he laid out 3 different types of surgeries, all with different costs and said he was comfortable with the cheapest. However the cheapest is still expensive. We can afford it with a loan, but barely and it basically empties the bank. That combined with hes 4 so hes young, our friends stories make it very tempting to go non surgical and perhaps brace. My flip side concern is I do not want too do something which will cause Tommy undo pain later on, leading to more suffering years down the road and possible more severe injury if that makes sense? When it boils down, what we want is the best thing for Tommy. He’s our baby and we love him as such like most love their own dogs id imagine. Is there any insight you can offer?
Hi Sean,
I am sorry Tommy has injured his knee and you are facing some difficult decisions about how to proceed. With so many options and therapies available, the best thing I can do for you is to make sure you have all the details so you can make a well-informed decision. Here are links to other articles that cover just about everything related to cruciate ligament rupture and ways to treat it:
1. Torn ACL in Dogs: Signs, Symptoms, Surgery Options
2. Dog Torn ACL Treatment Without Surgery: A Rehab Vet’s Approach
3. Cruciate Ligament Rupture in Dogs: The Partial Tear
4. TPLO Surgery for Dogs with a Torn Cruciate Ligament
5. A Veterinarian Answers Your TPLO Recovery FAQs
Even though the articles have TPLO in the title, they do in fact cover all the surgical options. In young dogs I tend to lean more toward surgical correction as I feel it gives a better quality of life in the long run. With that being said, I have seen great outcomes with just rehabilitation and feel if you decide to forgo surgery, rehab will play a vital role in the successful recovery of your pup. Wishing you all the best and feel free to keep us updated on how things progress!
So nice to see all the replys. Thank you for taking the time to get back with everyone. My 1.5 yearold Pitbull/Catahoula mix just injured her left crucuate. Being a pity mix mama my whole life I have had lots of these. My first experience was with one and a half year-old supermutt who tore both and had double surgery about 20 years ago. This is really hard for him so we elected not to do surgery on our next three different dogs who tore their crucaites who recovered well with rest but did reinjure them occasionally – cost was also a factor. With my last epileptic pitbull we discovered health insurance so our current dog is insured. Our health insurance would reimburse a custom brace or surgery. From the post it’s clear that you would lean towards surgery, but in my experience, rest and anti-inflammatories has worked quite well. I’m wondering if you have any statistics on re-injury rates post surgery. I’m not opposed to surgery since keeping an active one and a half year-old from re-injuring herself seems challenging, but so does surgery recovery. Also, currently spot treating with an Assisi Loop. Any thoughts on that? Thank you!
Hi Mollie,
I am so sorry your young dog has injured her knee! It sounds like you have lots of experience with this and I think it is great you are open to alternative therapies. All of the surgical techniques used for this condition help to stabilize the knee joint and reduce the angle at which the femur and tibia interact. They do not replace the torn ligament and therefore there is no risk of tearing the ligament again after surgery because it is no longer present. The only way to reinjure the knee after surgery would be for the surgical implant/hardware to fail. While I have no personal experience with the Assisi Loop, I am familiar with PEMF mats and other devices and think it is a wonderful idea! You may also want to look into rehabilitation/physical therapy, acupuncture, and laser therapy as ways to reduce inflammation and pain with or without surgery. I am confident that you will make a choice that works best for you and your sweet girl. Best of luck to you both!
This is older post, but found it researching what to do about my 12.5 year old mix dog who apparently just ruptured her acl. Our other mix rescue had straight legs and arthitus by 6 months old, it was recommended both of his knees be repaired. Bone cut, repositioned, and plates. One leg was perfect the other leg swelled painfully and it was a night mare getting him through that. When it finally healed, he limped so it was recommended to take the plate out. So our experience wasn’t awesome, but he did have many years of running and hiking with us. Now at 11, he walks ok, has arthritus and won’t fully put weight on the problem surgery leg, so it has atrophied. All of this makes me hesitate about the insistance for surgery now for my girl, but I hear her bone drawer move and shudder. She is on pain meds and carprofen, so is comfortable enough to still try to use the stairs when I’m not looking. Of ourse now, post covid surgery time is a long wait of 3o days, so in the meantime I was thinking of a brace. But I do know her feet slide, so will try the toe grips and see if that helsp stabalize her enough Just sharing my experiences. It’s a sad frustrating condition to go through, and for those whove had perfect results, they are the lucky ones.
Hi Suzanne,
Goodness, you have been through so much with your dogs and their knee issues! I am sorry you are facing this difficult decision and I wish I knew what was best. Thank you for being willing to share your experience. It helps others to know they are not alone. How is your senior girl doing? Feel free to leave an update if you have a chance.
We rescued a German Shepherd x Doberman (4 yo, 30kg) at Christmas 2022.
He is a beautiful boy. So active and playful – running, swimming, and chasing butterflies. Until last week when he pulled up lame in his right hind leg.
Xrays today reveal hip dysplasia, ruptured cruciate ligament in right hind leg., left leg is poorly, arthritis in hips and knees. Cost of surgery is in excess of $20,000 which we cannot afford. His condition has deteriorated over the past week – heartbreaking.
We are going to see an animal physiotherapist. We cannot afford a regime of therapy. I was thinking of a leg brace for both hind legs. Balto brand? Now I’m thinking a wheelchair. We’ll see what the physio says.
I’ll check out the toe grips – thank you.
Hi Narelle,
I am sorry your big guy is dealing with so many issues at once. Have you had your consultation with the rehabilitation specialist yet? I am curious to know what they recommended. While a brace may help the leg with the ruptured cruciate ligament, I am worried that bracing the other leg or using a wheelchair will promote muscle atrophy and cause weakness in places that are currently functioning rather well. The saying is true…. if you don’t use it, you lose it. If you decide to give ToeGrips a try let me know what you think of them! Also, I highly recommend starting some good quality supplements to help with arthritis pain and inflammation. I will attach links to other articles with more information and advice. Surgery prices can vairy depending on what area you live in. It might be worth calling some clinics a few hours away or in another state to see if you can get a better quote for the cruciate surgery. Hoping you can find the best way to restore your sweet boy’s quality of life. Wishing you both the best of luck!
1. Natural Pain Relief for Dogs: 13 Methods
2. How to Relieve Arthritis Pain in Dogs: The Ultimate Guide
3. Dog Arthritis Treatment: 8 Ways to Help a Senior Dog at Home
4. Adequan for Dogs: Don’t Just Treat Arthritis, Slow it Down
Had x rays done on my dog and has a tore ccl and meniscus damage. She hasn’t put her leg down for 3 weeks and is on pain pills not sure if she needs them. She is 11 yrs old should I get her surgery? Also some arthritis in her other hip.. also put a deposit down for a lab puppy 3 months ago and have just been born. Should I get him or lose my deposit?
Hi Dave,
I am sorry your dog is having issues with a torn CCL. If she is non weight bearing on the limb, then that is a sure sign of pain. I would think the pain medication would be a necessity. Without examining her myself, I don’t know if surgery is the best option. Did your vet recommend surgery? Age alone should not prevent your pup from moving forward with surgery if that is what you were hoping to pursue. If you need additional information or have lingering questions, it would be a good idea to schedule a consult with a veterinary orthopedic surgeon or the vet that would be performing the knee surgery. I will attach links to other articles with more information. Are you worried about getting a puppy due to the effects on your dog? I am not sure I can offer advice on how to proceed with the puppy. There are just too many unknown variables. I think you are wise to be considering how adding another dog to the mix could affect your senior girl. I am hopeful you will find the answers you need to make the best decision for everyone involved. Wishing you both the best.
1. Torn ACL in Dogs: Signs, Symptoms, Surgery Options
2. Cruciate Ligament Rupture in Dogs: The Partial Tear
3. TPLO Surgery for Dogs with a Torn Cruciate Ligament
4. A Veterinarian Answers Your TPLO Recovery FAQs
I hate to be ‘that’ person, but TPLO is not always the success we hear so much about. 2 years ago my 9 year old 120lb Shiloh Shepherd, Georgia tore her left CCL. We went straight to the vet and were told it was TPLO or euthanasia because of her size. We couldn’t afford it but did it anyway. Our vet and the surgeon assured us we would all be hiking again in no time.
Not the case.
She got several infections. We were told to have the hardware removed. We did. Her bones hadn’t healed enough and it made everything worse. In the meantime, she tore her right CCL.
We were told to euthanize.
We couldn’t. Not out of selfishness, but because our girl was so full of life!
We bought a help em up harness and carried her around to her favourite spots and people. I had a custom brace made for her right leg. We went to rehab.
Her right (none surgery) leg is back to normal functioning. Her surgery leg is wonky looking, but functional and her pain is managed.
At 11, she is happy and healthy and able to enjoy her senior years-they may not look like her more youthful years but are they really supposed to?
I’m not saying TPLO is wrong for every dog. It was wrong for my dog and the vet and surgeon who suggested we euthanize this beautiful, happy dog were wrong too.
Posting for any dog families who may be feeling hopeless.
Robyn
Hi Robyn,
Thank you for sharing your experience with our readers! I appreciate your perspective and completely agree there is no perfect solution that fits every dog/situation. I hope others will feel empowered to ask those hard questions and when necessary, seek a second opinion. I am so glad Georgia has been able to overcome all the obstacles in her path. What a blessing to still have her by your side. Wishing you both the best for a long and happy future. ♥
Hi there, my 8 year old shepherd (partially) tore her CCL and is currently being restricted in her activities and receives physio. I have an appointment for a custom made brace ( casted and fitted by a professional). TPLO is not an option for me (- financially out of reach and too invasive for my liking). However, I recently read about a different approach (- now predominantly used in Europe according to the article I read), – way less invasive and recovery is much quicker. It is called MMP CCL surgery. What do you know about this and what are your thoughts? Thank you
Hi Sannie,
Until reading your comment I had never heard of MMP surgery for a cruciate rupture. I did some research, and while reading the initial description of the procedure it sounded very similar to a CCL surgery I was familiar with called a TTA (Tibial Tuberosity Advancement). Upon further reading I did find that the MMP is considered the “next evolution” in TTA surgery. I think this method seems like a great option. I will say that I am not sure how it is less invasive as it still requires the bone to be cut and spread apart and hardware will be placed and left permanently. Here is a good website that I found with an informative video showing the procedure’s details:
I like the use of the OrthoFoam to promote bone growth and a faster recovery rate. If you do decide to pursue this surgical treatment, I would love some feedback on what you think post-surgery and during the recovery phase. I hope your Shepherd girl makes a quick and full recovery. Best wishes to you both and feel free to leave an update if you have a chance.
I didn’t see the website posted for the MMP surgery. Do you still have that info on hand?
Hi Sheila,
I looked back at my previous comment and realized that the link didn’t post. Thank you for letting me know! I will try again to attach the link at the bottom of this comment. But just in case it doesn’t work you can google: MMP OrthoFoam Canine Cruciate Repair System.
Thank you for the insight, Dr. Buzby. My 8 year-old female French bulldog has gone through two unsuccessful TPL surgeries. After nearly three months of limited movement, constant drugging, $10K in expenses, and general despondency for her, my wife, and I, we are at a loss for options. We walked our girl nearly an hour every day, so limiting that outdoor time to zero has negatively affected all of us.
Long story short: we do not want to put her and us through another surgery. We are now looking into other options like physical therapy or even a brace. We are coming to terms with the realization that our girl will likely never be the same (even though our vet assured us she would make a full recovery). Any insight you can provide will be much appreciated.
Thank you for everything you do for dog lovers.
Dear James,
I am sorry your Frenchie girl did not have a successful outcome with her knee surgeries. I understand your concern with her limited mobility and loss of function affecting her quality of life. I think your plan of looking into physical therapy is a wonderful idea. A veterinary rehabilitation specialist may be able to greatly improve things for your sweet pup. Also, I know you are not interested in another surgery, but it might be of some benefit to talk to a veterinary orthopedic surgeon and see what their thought are on the failure of the previous surgeries. I hope you can find the right help for your girl to get her back to living her best life. She is lucky to have you advocating for her wellbeing!
I have a Great Dane/German Shepherd mix, that we rescued at 16-weeks old. He is brindle and quite the handsome devil. He has had a torn ACL in left hind leg for close to a year now, which was just recently diagnosed, and formerly misdiagnosed. Anyhow, due to his weight (115lbs) we were told he would need the same type surgery usually performed on horses, with a cost of $8000 to $10,000. This is really steep for us, and most likely not a viable solution. I was hoping a brace would offer him some relief, but after reading your article my hopes were dashed. It breaks my heart to see him in pain, and not able to play with his sister as he so much enjoys. Hoping he does not injure his other leg as well, due to bearing most of his weight on good leg. If you have any alternative suggestions I would be happy to hear about them. I love my boy and wish I could do more to help him.
Hi Jeffrey,
I understand what a difficult position you are in with your big guy. It is hard to want to do what is best but feel like your hands are tied due to financial circumstances. My best advice is to team up with a veterinary rehabilitation specialist in your area. They can offer many treatments and exercises to reduce inflammation and pain and help strengthen the “good leg”. You could also look into an integrative vet and see if there are any additional supplements or treatments (such as acupuncture) that might improve your dog’s quality of life. I hope you can find what works best for you and your sweet boy. Wishing you both many happy years together in the future.
Very informative! My wife and I have a few questions regarding our (7 y/o) Akita and her recently diagnosed cruciate tear. We are unable to do the surgery immediately and are wondering what we can do for our girl in the meantime. The surgery is scheduled for March (2 months from now) .Besides medication is there anything else we can do for her to improve her mobility? Help her manage pain/inflammation? Should we plan on doing rehabilitation both pre and post operation? Thank you so much for any help/guidance you can offer.
Hi Matthew,
I am glad you have your girl scheduled for surgery and very happy you already have rehab on your radar. I definitely think rehabilitation would be a great benefit before and after the surgery. Besides the medications and supplements, rehab would be my recommendation for the best way to manage pain and inflammation while you wait for March to arrive. Go ahead and contact your preferred rehab veterinarian and get the ball rolling as soon as possible!
I can’t find how to make my own comment so I am replying, sorry! Is this information the same for a PARTIALLY torn ACL? I have a 2 year old lab with partially torn ACL. Kept her from running for 2 weeks but impossible to keep her from jumping. She still has a limp after playing at times. Googling “brace” and found this info. Thank you in advance for advice.
Hi Lynne,
I understand how difficult it can be to try and keep a high energy dog’s exercise restricted. My best recommendation is to talk to a veterinary rehabilitation specialist in your area. They can find ways to let your girl exercise without adding to the inflammation and pain associated with the torn ligament. They also have access to other treatments that can help promote faster healing. I don’t think a brace would be the best option for your specific situation, but since I haven’t examined your girl myself, I can’t make definite conclusions. I hope you find the help your Lab needs to get back to living her best life. Good luck!
This was a very helpful article! I am 1 day post surgery for my 9 year old Australian cattle dog who had a torn ccl and torn meniscus in her left hind leg. I have the rehab and cold laser therapy appointments all scheduled for the next 6 weeks with my vet, and I will be asking their opinion on this as well, but I wanted to see what your opinion was.
I am considering some sort of a brace, or maybe even a type of compression sleeve/brace for my dog once she is fully healed and rehabilitated. What do you think?
My thoughts are, she has already had the surgery and will have the rehab, and the compression brace might help her during periods of more activity… Going for a walk/run or playing outside. Something just to help stabilize and protect the knee a little more. Do you think that is worth it?
I found a company called tailwinds that makes compression type braces that are reasonably priced compared to the custom braces out there.
Thanks!
Hi Kevin,
I am glad the surgery went well and that you have your girl already scheduled for rehab. I definitely recommend you talk to your rehabilitation veterinarian about their opinion on a brace. They will have more accurate information on which to base their opinions since I have not personally examined your dog. In general, if the surgery was successful and the recovery is complete, I don’t usually see a need for any type of bracing post-op. I hope your sweet girl continues to have a smooth recovery and will find herself completely healed at the end of this long process. Best wishes to you both and good luck for a happy future!
I have a 9 year mixed breed, mostly terrier, that is about 24 lbs. He began hopping on 3 legs after chasing a squirrel. The vet has said probably a CCL injury and just recommended rest and time for it to heal. I have a pain/anti-infmmatorty medication as well that’s he has been taking for a week. He still “hops ” on his 3 legs, never putting his left hind leg down. Would the Encore Mobility help him at all? Also, is it possible for him to heal without surgery?
Hi Sandra,
I am sorry to hear that your guy may have ruptured his cruciate ligament. It is possible for a dog to regain function of their leg after CCL injury without surgery in certain situations. For the majority of cases, surgery is the preferred treatment. I will attach some links to other articles that may be of some help. Without surgery, the goal is to reduce inflammation and manage pain in the joint. I highly recommend you look into the services of a rehabilitation veterinarian whether surgery is pursued or not. Encore Mobility would be a good option in combination with other pain medications and anti-inflammatories as long as your dog doesn’t have any other issues that would be a contraindication. You can always ask your vet to make sure adding the supplement is safe. I hope you can find a solution that works best for you and your sweet boy. Keep us updated!
1. Cruciate Ligament Rupture in Dogs: The Partial Tear
2. Torn ACL in Dogs: Signs, Symptoms, Surgery Options
This is depressing… my 14.5 y/o Dachshund has Cushing disease and just diagnosed with bilateral CCL tears, left worse than right, of both hind legs…. Surgery is not an option because of her age and comorbidities, nor is euthanizing her at this point. I’m very sad and very lost
Hi Lisa,
I understand how much you want to help your senior girl and how sad it can be to feel like there are no options. I highly recommend you contact a rehabilitation vet in your area. There may be supplements, treatments (laser, underwater treadmill, etc.), or other therapy options they can offer that a general practitioner does not have access to. I hope you can find something that works for you and your girl to help restore her quality of life. Best wishes!
Lisa,
I’m so sorry to hear this. I hope that rehab has helped to improve your girl’s quality of life. My 70-lb 13-year old girl just ruptured her rear right CCL and is also not a good candidate for surgery due to Cushing’s and age. Have you learned anything with respect to treatment of your girl’s CCL tears that is specific to Cushing’s, for example any issues, concerns or pointers? We are seeing a chiropractor soon and planning rehab but were also looking at a possible custom brace.
Great article, thank you! My 12 year old rescue tore both of her CCLs. One when she was 6, and the second when she was 9. Both times I elected for the TPLO. With careful rehab she was back to 100% after each surgery. I’ve had her on Cosequin with MSM since and take great care to keep her as healthy as possible. My question is would having her wear a brace on each hind leg help give more stability and prevent arthritis as she continues to age? I really just want the best for her and I’m always worried her having torn those will cause her pain and immobility as she ages.
Dear Shelby,
It sounds like you are doing a great job staying on top of her care. I’m so glad to hear that she recovered well after her TPLOs and appreciate your dedication to keeping her happy, healthy, and mobile for as long as possible. Braces are definitely one of those things that vets have many different opinions on. I think the best way to make a decision about braces for her would be to either consult with the vet who did her TPLOs or the vet who helped with her post-op rehab. They would have a good idea of what her legs and joints are like and how much a brace would help (or not help) her.
If you are interested in trying out a different joint supplement, I would like to suggest our Encore Mobility supplement. Keeping her a healthy weight and providing daily exercise are also great ways to keep her mobile as she ages. I wish you and her the best of luck and many wonderful, active years together.
Hi Doc,
Great blog! If you wouldn’t mind (and have the time), I have two questions regarding braces and toe grips.
My quadruped has the same problem w/both his hind leg knees: The kneecap moves (improperly) in and out of position, which causes his hind legs to shake and at times “give out.” Otherwise, he doesn’t show any lameness, doesn’t seem to notice the issue, and doesn’t show any signs of pain or discomfort (wish he could just tell me).
It is evident that the left knee is significantly worse than the right. Given the length of time this problem has existed, which is presumably his whole life (w/the issue getting progressively worse over time), arthritis is a real possibility if not now a reality.
My doctor recommended surgery today, said rehab wouldn’t do the trick. I intend to get the surgery; however, it will take a few weeks for me to be able to move forward w/the first knee. In the interim and since there are no tears diagnosed, would you say a relatively inexpensive knee brace is a worthwhile purchase while awaiting surgery?
Lastly, with respect to the toe pads, have you found that they make notable difference in smaller dogs? And if so, would those too be a good addition while awaiting surgery? Muppet Jack Waffles (the quadruped) is a 10.5 yr old, 20 lbs cockatoo and is extremely energetic.
Thanks for your time (and great blog)!
Dear Justin,
Thanks for reading the article and reaching out to us. Based on your description of his signs, I am guessing that he probably has a luxating patella in both legs. Overall I haven’t found braces to be all that helpful for slowing the progression of arthritis or increasing comfort in these cases, especially since a surgical repair is in the near future.
ToeGrips would be a great addition to add while Muppet Jack Waffles awaits surgery and during the recovery period. Our customer care team would be happy to assist you in finding the correct size for him. I do think that they can make a big difference for dogs of all sizes (as you will notice if you check out the ToeGrips testimonials on our site). They could add some traction to help before and after his surgery which could help him walk more comfortably and confidently.
I would also recommend my joint supplement, Encore Mobility. It contains deer velvet and green lipped mussel, two ingredients which are superstars when it comes to supporting joint health and reducing inflammation.
He sounds like such a fun energetic dog! We wish you both all the best as you move forward with surgery!
Green Lipped Mussel for Dogs: Our Planet’s Gift for Arthritic Joints
ToeGrips Reviews: Help for Slipping Dogs
We just adopted a 3 yr old Plott Hound Mix (Shiloh). She had a fracture to her front right ulna. Surgery was done and. Plate put in, then roughhouse play in her foster home with her brother broke the plate. She then had another surgery where they put in pins and external fixater brace. She got caught in her crate and ripped it all out. She started rehab with no further surgery with hopes the bone would fuse. After 8 weeks they did not see any fusion and do not believe it will. We just got her and she will still be doing rehab but she is sedated and full of energy still. We walk her but are afraid of doing more harm so thought about a brace. Any suggestions for our Shiloh?
Hi Rebecca,
Congratulations on the new member of your family! It sounds like she has had quite a rough time with her ulna fracture to have managed to break a plate and rip off her external fixator. Poor girl! It is great that she is in a rehab program. Does the rehab vet have any thoughts about the benefits of a brace or splint for Shiloh? I don’t personally have much experience with front leg braces for dogs so I don’t want to weigh in one way or another. You could also potentially consider another consultation with an orthopedic surgeon to see if he or she thinks it would be worth trying another surgery once she is settled into your home. If you aren’t already doing this, lots of mental exercise can also be a great way to keep dogs content and tired out. There are a ton of different puzzle toys and brain games for dogs on the internet that she might really enjoy (and that don’t put too much strain on her leg). Best of luck and congratulations again!
Dear Dr. Buzby –
My 10 year old male Jindo just had surgery today for a torn ACL in his right hind leg. There was some damage to the meniscus as well. He has always been very athletic, very muscular, & has maintained a healthy weight. I know he’s going to need many weeks of rehab and someone suggested water therapy at which I laughed (Jindos hate water!). I got to this page by researching knee braces, but I’m looking for something for AFTER surgery to keep his knee stable. I know the doctor is going to tell me to keep his activities restricted, but have you ever tried to slow down a Jindo? It’s impossible, even if they’re in pain. Before the surgery, I had to wait 10 days. In order to keep him mellow, I had to give him all MY medication (doc said it was ok).
I would like to put a brace or a sleeve on his leg to keep him from using his knee while it’s healing post surgery. Any suggestions? Thanks so much!
Leslie
Hi Leslie,
Sorry to hear that your Jindo needed ACL surgery. I definitely understand your concerns with trying to keep him calm and restrict his exercise. Unfortunately though, exercise restriction is so very important after ACL surgery in order to promote good healing and long term leg function, and there really isn’t a good substitute. While I understand your line of thinking about a brace, I don’t think that it would end up being that helpful in his case.
Instead, I would consider asking the surgeon for some sedatives/anxiety reducing medications to help keep him calm. I know no one wants to think about having to sedate their dog, but in this case we are really just aiming to take the edge off and help him be more content to rest and let his body heal. Looking up how to play brain games with dogs or getting some different puzzle toys for him can also be a great way to keep his brain engaged and redirect his energy towards mental pursuits rather than physical ones. I’m sure the weeks of restricted exercise and rehab seem long and dauting now, but I can assure you that it is well worth it. Unfortunately I have seen a number of patients over the years who never healed well from ACL surgery because they were too active too soon, so I really am a firm believer in the benefits of exercise restriction.
I hope you are able to find some solutions that work well and that he makes a full recovery so he can be back to the activities he loves! ❤
Doctor,
Thank you for the information. Our 13 1/2 year old German Shepherd mix who weighs 98 lbs has ruptured his right CCL. He had surgery 5 years ago at Purdue University on his left CCL. I’m afraid he is much to old for surgery. I have been researching braces for Shiloh my dog. Do you have any Advice. He is still very energetic to a fault and I don’t want to have to put him down. It’s a sad situation. Thank you for your advice.
Hi Scott,
I’m sorry to hear that Shiloh has now ruptured his other CCL. Since he is older now, I can definitely understand your reservations about surgery for this leg. One option would be to make an appointment with the orthopedic surgeons at Purdue (or a different specialty hospital of your choice) and get their opinion on surgery given his age. I do also have two blogs entitled Is My Dog Too Old for Surgery? and Is My Dog Too Old For Anesthesia? that you might find helpful. Another option would be to start working with a rehab vet (you can find one at Find a veterinary rehabilitation professional). He or she would be able to help fit Shiloh with a brace (if he or she thinks it would be a good choice for him) and can help develop a strengthening and rehabilitation program. I hope one of those options helps give you some clear direction on how to proceed. ❤
After reading up on procedural information and articles like yours, i am now more torn than ever. Albert is a 7-year old American Bulldog mix (short on the mix). He is currently down from his winter weight of 95lbs to a summer slim of 86lbs. As best as we can pinpoint, the injury occurred around June 29th when i noticed his limping. It was July 3 before the vet could examine him. The vet explained in more detail than I could remember, so i researched it when I returned home. His initial estimate for one knee was $3,700 and he gave me the referral to the orthopedic surgeon, I phoned the surgeons office and left a message. They returned my call today. The real estimate is $8,400 for the procedure, not including after care. I’m 72 years old, fully retired and on a limited and fixed income. i have established a gofundme site and am considering a brace until the funds are available for the surgery. What i am reading on your site (and I know it is an ad) tells me that expendature is a waste. Can you clarify?
Hi Bill,
Sorry to hear that Albert tore his CCL recently. It is wonderful that you are trying to read up on the procedures and options! It is always good to equip yourself with knowledge (but I also understand quite well that like many topics, the more you read about the treatment for CCL tears, the more confusing things can get). I am not entirely sure if I interpreted your second to last sentence correctly, but I will try to answer what I think you are asking. If I didn’t get to the root of your question, please let me know!
The overall consensus is that braces are an inferior solution to surgery. A surgery (such as a TPLO- discussed in TPLO Surgery for Dogs with a Torn Cruciate Ligament) is generally going to be the best solution for a dog with a torn CCL because it provides constant and rapid stabilization of the knee. In most cases, I do not recommend spending the money, time and energy on a custom brace if you are planning to pursue surgery in the future as it is an added expense that probably won’t make a drastic difference in arthritis formation or patient comfort. I would rather see people put the money spent on a brace towards the surgery if they are planning on surgery anyway. There are exceptions to this, and I haven’t examined your dog, so this is just a “in most cases” recommendation. For recommendations specific to your dog’s situation, I would talk to the vet who diagnosed the CCL tear or the surgeon who would be doing the repair as they would be best equipped to speak to your dog’s case specifically.
If surgery is not a good option due to age, cost, or underlying medical conditions, then this raises the question of how else you can help your dog. This is where lots of proposed solutions (knee braces, rehab, supplements, acupuncture, laser therapy, ToeGrips, etc) come in. Braces may occasionally be a workable solution for certain dogs where surgery is not an option, but it is important to find one that helps, not hinders your dog, and fits correctly. Otherwise you have an expensive piece of hardware that is giving you a false sense of security and isn’t doing anything to slow down arthritis progression or decrease pain. Also, there may be other options, such a rehab, that are actually more beneficial to your dog’s long term comfort and healing. In these situations, I often recommend making an appointment with a rehab specialist (find one at Find a veterinary rehabilitation professional).He or she usually is well versed in the different non-surgical treatments for CCL tears and can help create a plan that is best for your dog (and advise you on if a brace is a good or bad idea for your dog’s specific situation/help ensure your dog is in a brace with the highest chance of being effective).
I hope that this has answered your questions and wish you and Albert all the best!
My dog only has three legs. She is missing her left rear. She has a slight tear in her right rear and she doesn’t have a spare. Looking at races I saw a lot of them they go over the butt and hook to the other leg to help keep it in place which obviously here cannot work. I know you’re against braces but I think a brace that has some flexibility would help as she tries to heal. Plus she’s a whippet which has A very long skinny leg
Hi Debbie,
Sorry to hear that your pup has a slight tear in her ACL in her remaining rear leg. Being a tripawd does add an element of difficulty to the situation but there are still some ways to help her during her healing. I would definitely recommend consulting with a rehab veterinary professional (you can search for one by state at Find a rehabilitation professional). He or she would be able to assess your dog to see if a brace would work for her and if so, which kind would be best. Additionally, he or she could develop a rehab and strengthening program to aid in your pup’s recovery. Finally, your dog might also benefit from our signature product, ToeGrips. Many moms and dads of tripawd dogs have said that ToeGrips really helped their pups be more stable and confident when moving around. Plus, during recovery, wearing ToeGrips would help her have better traction which puts less strain on the injured leg. We offer a 30-day money back guarantee, which makes it easy to try them risk free and our customer service department is great at troubleshooting any issues that arise. Best of luck!
My 9 yr old Beagle had a TTA for a partially torn CCL on his left knee 12/29/20 that failed causing a Tibial Thrust which post op damaged his meniscus and ruptured the Caudal Cruciate ligament. I kept telling them something was wrong from week 2 post op his leg was shifting kept getting told I need to give him time. I made them give me a referral to PT from there he got a evaluation and the problems were noted. On 3/17 he had a Latural Suture that failed within 3 weeks making him lamer. On 5/5 he had another surgery to remove the broken suture by a Board Certified Surgeon and to do another suture only to be told the leg is to damaged to repair. I’ve asked about other options like TPLOs to correct the failed TTA no resolution offered. Now I’m at the point of bracing to give my dog a better quality of life since all other avenues have failed him and honestly I don’t know what to do at this point. He had the right knee repaired in 2019 recovery was perfect. I knew something wasn’t right from the beginning with this one and no one would listen and now I find myself feeling defeated and like I have failed my dog. What suggestions do you have on bracing or other rehabilitation. Thanks in advance for any information you can offer
Hi Kristy,
So sorry to hear about your Beagle’s difficulties with the TTA then lateral suture. It sound like you have done a great job advocating for him during the whole process so please don’t be hard on yourself or think you have failed him. Since it sounds like you have exhausted the available surgical options, I think it definitely makes sense to look into rehab and possibly a brace. It sounds like you may already have connections with a rehab specialist (doggie PT) since you mentioned taking him to PT in your message, so that person would probably be a good place to start. He or she can evaluate your dog’s gait and leg and work with you to create a rehab exercise plan and fit him for a brace if he/she thinks your dog could benefit from one. Best of luck to you and your pup!
We have a 12 1/2 year old lab-husky mix we rescued from the animal shelter 2 years ago. Soren had surgery for cancer a little over a year ago which dr’s could not get all of. He weighs 95 pounds and has just got a cranial cruciate ligament rupture (complete rupture) right rear leg. His vet says he also has arthritis and the cancer could have also moved to his leg and caused the rupture. They do not recommend surgery due to his age and health. What all can we do for him to help him? What type of brace would be best for him? What else would benefit him? Please help us.
Hi Cheryl,
I’m sorry to hear that Soren had a tumor that wasn’t able to be removed fully and is now dealing with a cranial cruciate ligament rupture and possible spread of the cancer. Since surgery is not an option for him, the goal is going to be keeping him as comfortable and calm as possible. I would highly recommend finding a rehab practitioner in your area so he or she can fit Soren for a brace if they think he is a candidate and help develop a good therapy program for him. I also recommend working closely with your veterinarian to develop a pain management program for him. The good news is that over time, scar tissue will be laid down and stabilize the joint, which tends to make dogs a bit more comfortable. You could also consider using joint supplement like the ones I discuss here Do Joint Supplements for Dogs Work? A Vet Oughta Know… to help keep his joints healthy. I recently wrote an article called 8 Ways to Help a Senior Dog with Arthritis at Home that might also be helpful as you look for ways to support him. Wishing you and Soren all the best!
My Irish Setter 10 years old is a PSS dog inoperable. Really doesn’t cope with anesthetiser.
He walk and really hikes out every day between 3-6 Ks. sometimes he has trouble getting out of a puddle if slippery and at home getting up. Would the tie grips help at all he has an old CL tear just found out.
Excellent vet I work with said keep him moving.
Regards Rosie
Hi Rosie,
Sorry to hear your Irish Setter has an inoperable PSS and an old CCL tear. It is wonderful that he is able to get out and walk/hike daily! So great for him, and for you too. I think it is worth trying out ToeGrips for him. They should help him grip slippery floors (and potentially slippery rocks on a hike), which may make it easier for him to get up and move about confidently. We offer a 30-day money back guarantee on the ToeGrips, so that can be a nice way to try them risk-free. We also have an excellent customer support team who would be happy to help with any issues you may encounter with sizing or applying the ToeGrips. If you decide to try out the ToeGrips, we would love to know how he does with them!
Thank you for your insights. We have an enthusiastic ridiculously friendly five year old Rottweiller cross who just ruptured her left ACL a few days ago, about two months after partially injuring her right one. We were doing rest and Metacam for the right one, but she slipped on ice and tore the left one. Never quite heard her scream like that, I must say.
We are waiting for surgery, but the wait may be many months. Is there value of bracing in the interim to help decrease the risk of an associated meniscal tear and later arthritis development.
I was thinking about some support and hopefully pain relief until she can get the surgery done. She is not putting much weight on this leg currently, but the injury is only a few days old. Watching her limp around in pain is hurting my heart.
Thanks,
Hi Alan,
I love how you described your dog! She sounds wonderful. I’m sure it was quite heart wrenching to hear her scream when she tore her ACL and to watch her limp around. It is great that you are pursing surgery for her, and I think that your question about bracing before surgery is a good one. I applaud you for wanting to do everything you can to keep her comfortable and promote a good long term prognosis. Unfortunately there isn’t an easy “one-size-fits-all” answer to that question. Since I can’t examine her myself, I would defer to the opinion of your veterinarian or veterinary surgeon regarding using a brace in the intervening time. I would also recommend using Encore Mobility for it’s anti-inflammatory and joint support properties while waiting for surgery, during the recovery period, and beyond. Hopefully she will be feeling a bit better each day, and you will be able to get on the surgery scheduled sooner than anticipated.
Hi!
I have a 7 y/o pit mix, she’s about 55 pounds, maybe a little more. She just had a TPLO surgery on her left rear leg at the end of January, and she has done great! Unfortunately, as of yesterday, it seems she has torn her right rear. Fortunately, I do work at a vets office and do plan on having another tplo scheduled. My question would be, since it is so soon after her other, would it be beneficial to use a brace or some type of compression sleeve on her leg she’s already had done, to offer extra support?
Hi Amy,
I’m glad that your dog is doing well after her first TPLO but that is very unfortunate that she tore the other side so soon after the first side was fixed. I think your question about using a brace to help support and stabilized the leg she had the first TPLO on is a good one, and I can see the potential benefits of doing this. Ultimately I’m going to defer to the opinion of the surgeon who did the TPLO and is going to do the second one. He or she knows what the left leg feels and looks like post-op, what your dog is like in general, and would be best suited to make a final judgement call on using a brace. I hope that the second TPLO goes well! She is a lucky pup to have a devoted mom like you. ❤
I see that your article focuses on braces for long term use instead of surgery- I’m looking at it for short term use, in between the heartbreak of now and the first availability of my consultation which is in 20 days from. I know we all feel the same- our dogs are our babies. I can’t stand to see my baby like this. We DO plan on getting surgery. I just can’t see her lasting 20 days without stabilization of her knee. Thoughts? Thanks in advance
Theresa, I know how distressing it can be to see your pet in pain, and commend you for wanting to do everything you can to keep her comfortable while she is waiting for surgery. Since I cant assess the extent of her knee injury to determine how much instability is present and exactly which knee structures (ACL only or ACL and meniscus) are involved, I will defer this questions back to the veterinarian who first examined and diagnosed her. I hope you are able to find a plan that works well for her and that she recovers well from surgery. If you haven’t already, I would encourage you to check out my blog post Torn ACL in Dogs: From Diagnosis to Recovery (https://toegrips.com/torn-acl-in-dogs-diagnosis-recovery/) for some helpful recovery tips.
How do you know if or when surgery is needed? My Schipperke has a CCL injury. Our local vet was wishy washy about surgery after I mentioned we are retired and cost is a consideration we must make, even though we love the dog. He said if not too serious they will heal in time. If she doesn’t get better, surgery is only option he recommends. He took an xray (which doesn’t show ccl) to ensure no broken splinters or gravely substance indicating a more serious problem, and said she looked good from that perspective.
How do we know how serious it is? How long from the time of the injury before you know if the dog has a chance of healing without surgery? She is middle aged for a Schipperke. She is using her leg more than before, but still favors it and when she does use it, she only takes a few steps and then lifts it back up.
So we are in a state of worry and concern if we should wait longer? Very frustrating not knowing how serious the injury is and if we would be spending money we can’t afford if we have it done, or if we don’t do it then whether it will get worse and cause her to blow out the ccl on her other leg (we read that can happen).
Hi Norm, I’m so sorry to hear about your Schipperke’s CCL injury. I can tell how much you care for her and you are doing a great job of thinking through the options and asking good questions. These decisions can be so difficult. Being a small dog, she does have size on her side because that injured leg doesn’t have to carry as much weight. The torn portions of the ligament can’t reattach, but over time scar tissue will form around the joint and lend stability to the joint. It is possible that without surgery she may be able to use the leg more normally eventually, but that leg will always be a bit weaker, prone to reinjury, and more likely to develop arthritis. You bring up a good point about potentially increasing the risk of a CCL tear in the “good” leg by off-loading more weight onto it right now to compensate for the “bad” leg. I would urge you to consider having a consultation with a veterinary orthopedic surgeon who could examine your dog’s leg and give you a better idea of the recommended surgical options, cost, and prognosis. Having a consultation doesn’t mean you are committed to doing the surgery, but it does mean that you will be armed with more information to make the most informed decision you can for your dog.
Firstly, thank you for this article! My dog Daisy has hip dysplasia in her left hip; it was diagnosed 2 years ago: I thought that was the reason for her limp. Nope, she has a partially torn CCL in her right knee. The surgeon recommended surgery. My regular vet, upon Daisy’s dysplasia diagnosis, had told me that he did not think she was a candidate for hip surgery as she’s extremely difficult to treat. Daisy is a 9 year old completely deaf 74lb pit bull mix (50% pit, 12.5% Doberman, 12.5% Boxer and 25% mystery). She’s a very reticent dog: doesn’t like other dogs and will not allow strangers (& vets) to touch her any further than a quick pat. It takes her quite some time to warm up to new people. She doesn’t bite; she gets so frightened she poops herself. She bucks and scratches and works herself into a panic. It’s incredibly stressful for everyone. It took 2 hours, 3 people and 2 separate injections today to get her sedated enough to complete the X-ray and blood work, and she pooped everywhere on the first injection and threw up after the second. We are both exhausted!! I am concerned about Daisy’s ability to successfully rehab from the surgery., and wondering, in this specific instance, would a custom brace be a better alternative? Does a torn (but not completely) CCL ever heal on its own in a brace or would she be stuck in a brace forever? She’s super active…and we have 17 stairs to our bedroom.. I am torn (yeah…intended pun), and would appreciate any insight you might have. We’ve spent lots on training, but her fears are deep seated and I do not believe she will ever lose her distrust of strangers. (Yes, she’s a rescue. I got her when she was about 7 months old.). Any thoughts regarding the best course of action would be most appreciated.
Hi Kirsten,
What a difficult situation to be in, and one that doesn’t have one clear-cut right answer. That does sound like quite the ordeal for everyone to get her x-rays and bloodwork done, and I can completely understand not wanting her or you to go through that again anytime soon. Here are my thoughts:
#1. I would encourage you to check out the Fear Free Pets. This organization’s main focus is decreasing fear, anxiety and stress in pets in many situations, but especially in the veterinary setting. Veterinary clinics who achieve Fear Free certification status have been specially trained in techniques to help dogs like Daisy have a low-stress veterinary visit. I’m sure your current veterinarian is great, but sometimes there is benefit to switching to a practice that specialized in Fear Free techniques since they may have access to additional resources or techniques to help the visit go smoothly. A list of Fear Free certified practices can be found on the fear free website. ToeGrips, our signature product, is a Fear Free product, and we think very highly of the organization in general, but especially for dogs like Daisy.
# 2. There are a wide variety of medications on the market now that might be able to decrease Daisy’s fear, stress, and anxiety, so this is something worth talking to your veterinarian about if you haven’t already. Some of these medications can be given at home in preparation for a visit, and other may help decrease daily anxiety to a more manageable level. I know that the injection didn’t go a smoothly as you would have liked when you had her at the appointment for the bloodwork and x-rays, but I do think it was good that your veterinarian used this tool. Sometimes dogs just need a bit of pharmacologic help to make life experiences more tolerable so maybe with the right drug combination, Daisy would be able to manage the surgery and recovery or brace fitting.
# 3. The decision about whether to use a brace or pursue surgery isn’t an easy one. Fitting a brace well (casting, etc) then adjusting it to ensure it is working well may require several veterinary visits, and there is no guarantee it will work well for her or she will tolerate it well. On the other hand, surgery usually requires an overnight hospital stay, so that can be challenging too due to her fear. Two advantages to surgery would be the fact that it does give a superior functional outcome compared to a brace, and the fact that once it is done, it over with. Perhaps you could even do her rehab yourself at home once someone shows you what to do. I don’t know if this is a possibility or not, but more and more clinics are able to utilize telehealth visits, so you might be able to find a veterinary surgeon who could do a video consult to talk to you and look over the radiographs and bloodwork, then advise you on if they think surgery would be manageable or if a brace would be better. This way you can get advice from the comfort of your home.
# 4. If the ACL tear has been there for awhile, there is a good chance that she already has some degenerative changes (i.e. arthritis) in the joint, so she may still limp a little even with surgery. This isn’t to say you should not do surgery, but it is something to ask the surgeon about. The ACL doesn’t truly heal but the scar tissue that gets laid down around the joint will lend some stability to the joint so it is possible that without surgery or a brace, she may regain more use of the leg again. However that leg will be more prone to arthritis and re-injury compared to a leg with a surgical repair.
Best of luck to you both. ❤
Thank you for sharing your article to brace or not to brace regarding dogs. Your advice is excellent. Nice pictures also. Very interesting and useful information. I learned something. I will bookmark this site.
Thanks so much, Richard. We strive to publish high quality, “vetted” (ha ha) articles weekly to help educate our customers and counteract the misinformation on Google. Thanks for becoming a regular reader! We’re honored to have you!
In my case my Doberman is 9 years old and 2 years ago she had complete ACL surgery on her right hind leg and had a maniscus tear as well. We knew the possibility of surgery on the left leg but that’s impossible now because she has been diagnosed last August with DCM. The risk is too great on her heart to survive the surgery. She has recently really been limping and favoring the left hind leg. It breaks my heart. I have been told to immobilize her as much as possible and brace it as well as therapy for possible healing. What is your opinion?
Hi JoEllen,
I’m sorry to hear about your dog’s second ACL tear and DCM diagnosis. As you discovered with the first ACL tear, surgery is the best option if your dog can tolerate it, but I would agree that having DCM does make surgery much more risky. Arthritis and instability tend to be the big problems with ACL tears that are not repaired, so I would recommend working with a rehab veterinarian (if there is one in your area), starting your dog on a joint supplement such as Encore Mobility, and using ToeGrips to give her some added traction. If you are interested in a brace, try to work closely with a veterinarian who has experience in casting for and fitting braces to give you the best chance of sucess with the brace. Best of luck to you and your sweet girl!❤
I have a 60lb lab/pit mix. She’s about 5 or 6 years old. I found her in a parking lot when she was about a year old. She was limping slightly.
The poor girl has a mix of arthritis, terrible conformation, and possibly injuries. At one point she had locating patella. Surgery was not an option due to money and the fact I can’t handle rehabbing a dog her size. (I’ve broken a lot of bones. I still love my horses. )
She went 3 legged lame last week. Her x Ray’s show her left hip is okay, but not great. Her left stifle is in the process of fusing. I have partially fused ankle and it eliminated the pain, but destroyed my balance.)
Her right hip shows no neck between the ball of the femur and the top of the femur.. there is obvious arthritis in the stifle, and the stifle is stable. The inside of the joint looks good, but the outside shows separation.
Her femurs are both bowed.
She’s getting medication, which relieves the discomfort. We have never made her walk far or run. She is a lap dog and also has cushy beds to sleep on. Crib mattresses are great.
Would a brace help her? Not 24/7, but in the yard and possibly on walks. We live in a rural area and she has a fenced in yard she shares with our Jack Russell.
Hello Valerie, She’s blessed to have you! It sounds like you’ve navigated so much together. ♥️ I would not recommend a leg brace in this situation, but I always defer to your regular vet’s opinion. What I’d love to recommend for her, however, is our New Zealand deer velvet joint supplement. Please read more here: https://toegrips.com/best-supplement-joint-pain-dogs/ And, yes, crib mattresses are a great tip! Thank you!
My Saint Bernard has a torn acl on one leg and a partially torn acl on the other. Surgery would cost 6-8 thousand dollars (which we can’t afford). We are hoping that knee braces will prevent further injury ( on the partial tear) along with PT. We also want to start giving her CBD oil for her arthritis along with fish oil. What are your thoughts on all this?
Hello Adam, I completely understand why surgery is just not an option in this case. I think the braces are a good choice, just make sure you’re working with a reputable company and a vet who is conscientious about fitting them correctly. Fit is everything! I have not yet joined the CBD bandwagon. Some of the reasons are explained in this article on our blog: https://toegrips.com/cbd-oil-for-dogs-facts-pros-cons/
I do think it can be effective for pain and possibly anxiety, but I’m not thinking that’s your primary problem here. I’m guessing your main issue is the need for restorative healing. This would be my supplement of choice. I LOVE it for ACL issues in my patients: https://toegrips.com/best-supplement-joint-pain-dogs/
I hope this is helpful! I know how hard this can be to navigate.
My is a cairn terrier mix est age 14 – he has been battling allergies and skin issues. It has been hard to get into the Vet. He finally got in and med when by the time I got him home he was limping. To the emergency Vet and extras he has a torn ACL. I work and with all going can not afford a lot. Emergency Vet said would not recommend surgery. But they offer water therapy – what does that entail? Again, I need to work and have no family – would it help if it is one day a week? I just want to make him comfortable. Any advise would be helpful – my long term Vet – the had a major change over and he is gone. I don’t feel comfortable with a new person I am not allowed to go in and meet when my dog is examined again.
Hi Cheryl, I know how hard this is for pet owners during these challenging COVID times. First of all, even though you may have to use curbside service at the vet’s office, you should still be able to talk to the vet via video call or phone so that you can develop rapport. Unfortunately my area of expertise is not animal rehabilitation, so I don’t feel comfortable answering your questions, but what I can tell you is that rehab in general is a great idea, and you’ll likely be working with a practitioner who can answer all of these questions with confidence, plus more! For more information on “water therapy”, visit the American Association of Rehabilitation Veterinarians’ site: https://rehabvets.org/rehab-therapies.lasso#hydrotherapy
I have a middle age 45 lbs dog.
Last month he tour both ACLs. My Vet recommended surgery at a cost of $2K each.
There is no way short of getting another job can I afford this.. Right now I am treating him with
Carprofen 75 mg and Gabapentin 100 mg once a day.
Because of the expense of .the surgery and the cost of the casting for a brace the only option
I see is keeping him on the med’s and obtaining and trying one of the low cost braces found
on line. Do you think rather than doing above, I just put him down.
Thank you for your time
John..
Hello John, I’m sorry to hear about your dilemma. I know that’s probably tearing you apart. First, I don’t think euthanasia is necessary for ACL tears. Granted, it may be a bit more difficult since both knees are involved, but usually dogs will heal from these if you do nothing. Managing the pain and inflammation is key and it sounds like you are doing that with the oral medications. I should clarify that when I say, “dogs will heal”, I mean that they will usually slowly return to using the leg(s) and the body will “scar down” the joint to provide some stability. However, this joint will most definitely be unstable and develop arthritis. So there will be a price for the body to pay. That said, I would try to rehab through this period and then save the option of euthanasia for down the road when the pain and mobility management is unbearable for your dog. And personally, I woudl not go with a low cost brace. I think nothing (rest) is better than a non-custom brace. These are my opinions but I’ve not seen your dog. Please work closely with your vet to discuss your concerns and strategize. Thanks!
In our case this does not come down to a choice between a brace or surgery. The TPLO surgery has already been done. In fact out dog has had two TPLO’s. The first went well and we have not had any problems with it. The second unfortunately did not go well. Our dog now has a lot of lateral play in his knee, it’s suspected that the torn meniscus was not fully repaired (or maybe was reinjured during recovery), and he already has developed pretty significant arthritis. So what are the options? Is there a surgery to remodel the knee and remove the arthritis? Or is repairing the meniscus the only thing that can really be done surgically? So in this case, maybe a brace is the best remaining option?
Hello TJC. I’m sorry to hear that your dog has been through so much with these surgeries. I know you have a huge investment of resources here and the current situation is extremely frustrating. I would recommend 3 things:
1. I would get your dog on a joint supplement right away to keep the joints as healthy as possible. This is my first choice: https://shop.toegrips.com/products/new-zealand-deer-velvet-for-dogs-veterinary-formula
2. I would get in touch with a board-certified orthopedic surgeon for a second opinion. You can find them online here: https://online.acvs.org/acvsssa/rflssareferral.query_page?P_VENDOR_TY=VETS
3. I would reach out to a vet rehab specialist for their input in recovery. https://rehabvets.org/directory.lasso
I really think these 3 steps are they key to success! And #2 is the top priority, but #1 is easiest. 🙂
We have a 6 year old mixed breed 60ish lb female dog. She’s had ACL surgery and surgery for a torn meniscus on her right back leg. THEN she had the pin from the original ACL surgery removed because she had internal irritation and fluid around it. After ALL of that she is still limping and often struggling to stand. She will of course run around the backyard or go for walks if she wants to (basically every day) but then for the rest of the day/night she’s limping and struggling. It’s heartbreaking. In this instance when she’s already had all the surgeries possible and nothing is working, would you recommend trying a brace?? We will do anything to help her but after all the surgeries and all the joint supplements in the world, we’re at our wits end of what to try 🙁
Hello Hilary, Your poor girl. I’m so sorry to hear all that you both have been through! I would definitely consider a brace for her situation, but I’d recommend you start by finding a board certified veterinary rehabilitiaton practitioner who can help guide you through the “to brace or not to brace” question as well as PT for her recovery. ♥️
I have a question more than a comment. What are opinions on bracing until surgery? Is it beneficial or no?
Hi Abra,
Good question and I can only offer my opinion. I don’t think it is worth the effort or the expense. I would just move to surgery as swiftly as possible (though not an emergency!) and keep your dog quiet in the meantime. Good luck!
As a rehab practitioner I agree that it is a surgical disease. 99% of the time that is my preference. However, there are many dogs that surgery is just plain not a good idea — usually dogs >14 or dogs with heart disease. BUT I disagree with many points regarding stifle braces — and my N is somewhere around 100. (1). It HAS to be a custom brace with the cast done by a PROFESSIONAL. Many companies will send owners the casting material. I too am a vet of 22 years and I can tell you that it took me MANY years to feel proficient with casts AND another 2 or 3 of casting for braces to make a consistent brace that reflects the pet’s anatomy. (2). It has to have data that it minimizes cranial tibial thrust. No data = No dice. If it is not helping CTT, then it is a painful weight on the dog’s leg. (3) The owner needs to be prepared for it to be a pain in the rear — even with good casting, how the dogs bears weight will determine if areas will rub or not. A proper practitioner or company will work through these with the owner with a grace period after obtaining the brace. (4) It has to have proper suspension to hold it on the leg in the right place. For example a pit bull has a leg that is narrow at the bottom and big at the top. This dog MUST have a component on the metatarsal region in order to have it not slide down the leg — if it slides it is again a big painful weight. (5) It is NEVER, EVER a “cheap” alternative to surgery. Mine are $1600, plus casting $300, plus consultation $250, plus rehabilitation $600. So yes, you within $1000 of TPLO when all is said and done. So in general, surgery is indeed the way to go and fear of anesthesia is not a good reason to not consider TPLO. BUT in those cases that surgery is a bad idea, it is a good option with the proper practitioner.
Thanks for this perspective, Dr. Blackwelder. For the most part I think we are in agreement, but you provide great depth of experience. I will contact you about adding it into the body of the post! I really like your last two sentences. Thanks again!