CCL Injuries In Dogs 

You’ve likely heard of ACL injuries before. They’ve definitely been the bane of many athletes’ existence! Our canine companions can also develop similar problems. Fido’s version has a slightly different name: cranial cruciate ligament. However, the doggy version can be just as painful and debilitating as the human one. A local Tipp City, OH vet discusses CCL injuries below.

Basics

The CCL is a ligament that connects the bones above and below Fido’s knees. They keep things in place, and generally stabilize your furry friend’s legs when he is walking, running after a Frisbee, or doing a doggy happy dance to greet you. CCL injuries are usually, though not always, degenerative. There is no one specific cause: your canine buddy’s size, diet, weight, health, age, breed, and activity levels all play roles. That said, even a perfectly fit and healthy pooch can hurt themselves if they slip or fall.

Signs

It’s important to know the warning signs of CCL injuries. This is one condition where early detection and treatment can make a huge difference! Some of the things to watch for include limping, swelling, lameness, trouble going up or down stairs, and difficulty etting in and out of the car and or—if Fido is allowed—on and off beds and couches. Your pup may get up or sit down slowly, and he may not want you to touch that sore joint. Understandably, your furry pal may also lose interest in play, and he may not be very enthusiastic about exercise. It’s also worth mentioning that these warning signs can be indicative of many different issues. Call your vet immediately if you notice any of these things.

Treatment

The good news is that there are treatment options available. Many pups heal with the use of a brace and/or supplements, or with special care regimens. However, more severe cases may require surgery. Your vet can discuss the options after a diagnosis has been made.

Prevention  

While there isn’t any way to completely guarantee that your canine pal won’t get injured, there are things you can do to reduce the risk. As one may expect, diet and exercise are both crucial here. Certain supplements, such as Omega-3s, can also help. Ask your vet for more information.

Please contact us with questions about your dog’s health or care. As your Tipp City, OH animal clinic, we’re always here to help!