CCL Knee Ligament Injuries in Puppies?
One of our readers brings up a good question: Is it possible for a very young dog to have a complete CCL tear and knee ligament damage?
Hazel’s Story
Our Hazel is a 4 1/2 month old, 45 pound, large breed mutt. We suspect Sheppard, Rotti, Lab… She was ‘gimpy’ on her right hind off and on for about 2 weeks. I mentioned the limping to our vet when she went for her shots. X-rays were taken at that time, and she was diagnosed with a torn ACL.
Given her age, I am suspicious that this type of injury can even happen in a puppy so young. A strain perhaps, but a full tear??? She has low pain tolerance – if she bumps her head on the coffee table it sends her screaming like she has been mortally wounded. She would have made us aware of a sudden injury. She has not taken an unsound step in 10 days, and we are using conservative management with her. So far we’ve had excellent results (with conservative management).
It breaks my heart when I hear about such a young dog with this type of injury! My dog was pretty old when he tore his ACL and we went the conservative route too, with a woundwear brace and some anti-inflammatory meds. I’m happy to hear your having such good luck with Hazel’s CM! Keep up the good work. Hazel’s got a long life ahead of her 🙂
Hi Nina, what anti inflammatory did you use? Also, did you use any Omega 3 Fish oil or other supplements??
thanks
Hi Susan,
I used Rimadyl, which is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug that my vet had discussed. I know, there are so many different drugs and supplements, I just tried to keep it simple. 🙂