Dog owners often worry about ACL injuries since they may affect animal companions’ movement and create pain and suffering. We’ll go over how to massage your dog, check for an ACL tear in your dog, treat an ACL tear, and which dog ACL braces are best in this article.
How to Check For ACL Tear in Dog?
A frequent injury in dogs is a rupture in the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). You should check for an ACL injury if your dog is dragging or has difficulties supporting weight on a leg. Untreated, this may result in chronic joint issues.
You should first observe a dog’s gait and behavior to determine whether its ACL is torn. A dog with a torn ACL will often limp or attempt to avoid bearing weight on the injured leg. When they run, they might have stiff legs when they walk or bunny-hop.
Next, gently move your dog’s leg to check for pain or a loose knee joint. Keep your thigh bone stationary while attempting to move your lower leg forward and backward to do the drawer test. If the knee moves excessively or aches, the ACL may be torn.
How to Massage a Dog With Torn ACL?
- Talk to your vet to determine the best way to treat your dog and if massage therapy suits his or her situation.
- When rubbing the area, use a strong but gentle touch so you don’t cause more pain or injury.
- Start by gently rubbing the quads, hamstrings, and leg muscles close to the affected joint.
- Move onto the joint and gently press on it to increase blood flow and reduce swelling.
- Make sure to rub both the leg that hurts and the leg that isn’t hurt. This will keep the muscles in both legs balanced and avoid further injury.
- Before rubbing, you might use a warm towel to help rest the muscles and improve circulation.
- Watch how your dog moves and stop immediately if it shows any pain or discomfort.
- Do the massage daily or as your vet tells you to help the animal heal and reduce pain and stiffness.
When To Put a Dog Down With Torn ACL?
It may be difficult for any pet owner to choose whether to put down a dog that has torn his or her ACL. Never make the rash decision to put your pet to sleep. Before deciding, you should consult your veterinarian and consider your dog’s quality of life. When making this challenging decision, keep the following points in mind:
- If the dog’s torn ACL is not treated, it might result in long-term discomfort or injury. A torn ACL can be very unpleasant for a dog.
- The best treatment for a torn ACL is often surgery, however, due to the dog’s age or condition, this isn’t always an option.
- It may be time to consider euthanizing the dog if surgery is not an option or if its condition worsens despite treatment.
How To Treat Dog Torn ACL Without Surgery?
A frequent injury in dogs that may lead to pain and mobility issues is an ACL tear. Although surgery is frequently advised, there are non-surgical options as well. Among these choices are:
- Rest and moderate exercise to let the ligament repair naturally.
- Pain management with medicine that a veterinarian has prescribed.
- Physical treatment to help the dog recover strength and mobility, such as swimming and moderate activities.
- Applying a knee brace to help support the hurt joint.
Can An X-ray Show a Torn ACL in a Dog?
X-rays are often utilized in veterinary medicine to identify bone and joint issues in dogs. However, a dog with a torn ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) cannot be diagnosed with just an X-ray. Following are some key points:
- Soft tissue injuries like ACL rips are not seen on X-rays.
- A veterinarian may use X-rays to rule out other illnesses, such as fractures, that might present with identical symptoms.
- Physical examination, X-rays, and other diagnostic imaging exams like an MRI or ultrasound are often used to identify an ACL tear.
- Dogs that have torn their ACL may limp, be lame, have trouble getting to their feet, and have a lower activity level.
- Surgery, rest, and physical therapy may be used as treatments for a damaged ACL in a dog.
What are the Symptoms of a Partial Cruciate Ligament Tear in Dogs?
A frequent injury in dogs that may result in discomfort and lameness in the afflicted leg is a partial cruciate ligament rupture. Since the cruciate ligament stabilizes the knee joint, damage to it can result in instability and arthritis. Some signs of a partial cruciate ligament injury in dogs include the following:
- Limping or favoring one leg.
- Swelling and tenderness around the knee joint.
- Decreased activity level or reluctance to play.
- Difficulty standing up or sitting down.
- A popping or clicking sound when the dog walks.
- Lameness improves with rest but worsens with exercise.
Our Recommended Dog ACL Braces
IN HAND Dog Rear Leg Hock Brace
It may be distressing to see dogs, who are cherished friends, suffer from wounds like a ruptured ACL in their rear leg. A device called the HAND Compression Dog ACL Brace claims it can support and stabilize a dog’s rear leg with an ACL tear or other problems, including arthritis.
The HAND Compression Dog ACL Brace has received favorable reviews from customers, who laud its efficiency in easing their dog’s discomfort and enhancing mobility. A secure and comfortable fit is guaranteed by the brace’s adjustable straps, which are manufactured from high-quality materials.
The HAND Compression Dog ACL Brace has the following characteristics and advantages:
- Provides support and stability to a dog’s hind leg affected by a torn ACL or arthritis.
- Made with high-quality materials for durability and comfort.
- Adjustable straps ensure a secure and comfortable fit.
- Helps reduce pain and improve mobility in the affected leg.
- It can be worn during exercise and daily activities.
While veterinary care may not replace the HAND Compression Dog ACL Brace, it can be useful in managing a dog’s injury or condition. Customers have commended its efficiency, toughness, and use, so pet owners looking to enhance the quality of life of their furry buddy should give it some thought.
MerryMilo Cruciate Ligament Recovery Brace
The MerryMilo Cruciate Ligament Recovery Brace can be just what your pet needs if their back leg suffers an ACL tear. This adjustable brace is designed to provide stability and support so your dog may heal and return to living an active lifestyle.
The MerryMilo brace has received excellent reviews from customers who have used it to help their dogs recuperate. A happy customer said, “The brace is very well made, durable, and our dog seemed comfortable with it right away.” Another reviewer said the brace allowed their dog to “avoid surgery and recover quickly.”
The MerryMilo brace not only works well, but it also has several outstanding qualities, such as:
- Adjustable straps for a secure and comfortable fit.
- Breathable mesh for ventilation and comfort.
- Reflective stitching for added visibility during nighttime walks.
Dog owners wishing to help their canines heal from a damaged ACL should strongly consider the MerryMilo Cruciate Ligament Recovery Brace. It stands out among products in its category because of its robust construction, adaptability, and extra functionality.
Conclusion
Both pets and their owners may have major difficulties due to an ACL tear, but dogs often recover and regain their mobility with the appropriate care and support. Remember to talk to a doctor if you think your dog could have a torn ACL and try non-surgical treatments, including rest, medicine, and physical therapy, before deciding to have surgery. Your animal buddy may quickly return to their joyful, active self with the right care and attention.
