Understanding ACL Surgery for Dogs: What to Expect

When your dog suddenly starts limping or seems unable to put weight on a hind leg, it can be alarming and emotional. As a caring pet owner in Whitehouse Station and surrounding communities, you want to provide your dog with the best possible care and restore their comfort and mobility. One of the most common orthopedic injuries in dogs is a torn cranial cruciate ligament, often referred to as the ACL. This injury often leads to the need for dog ACL surgery, a procedure our veterinary team at Hunterdon Hills Animal Hospital is highly experienced in providing.

In this blog, we will guide you through everything you need to know about dog ACL surgery in Whitehouse Station. We'll cover how to recognize the signs of a torn ACL, explain why this injury happens, outline the treatment process, and share tips for canine knee surgery recovery. You’ll also learn how our veterinarians support your pet before, during, and after surgery, ensuring a smooth path to healing. If you’re searching for a “vet near me” who offers comprehensive orthopedic care, our team is here to help your pet regain their quality of life. For more details on our expertise, you can also visit our orthopedic veterinary care and surgery services page.

By the end of this article, you’ll feel more confident about what to expect from ACL surgery at 411 US Highway 22 East, Whitehouse Station, NJ 08889, and understand the steps involved in getting your dog back on their paws.

Recognizing the Signs of a Torn ACL in Dogs

When a dog suffers from a torn ACL, the effects are often sudden and distressing for both pet and owner. Key symptoms include limping on one of the back legs, difficulty rising from a lying position, and visible pain when the knee is touched or manipulated. Some dogs may avoid putting any weight at all on the injured leg, instead holding it up when standing or walking. You might also notice swelling around the knee joint, reluctance to jump or climb stairs, or a general decrease in activity.

Other signs to watch for are changes in your dog’s gait, such as an abnormal “bunny hopping” motion when running, or stiffness after resting. In many cases, dogs with a torn ACL will seem less playful and may withdraw from their usual activities. If your dog displays any of these symptoms, especially following vigorous play or an accident, it is important to schedule an appointment with your local veterinarian in Whitehouse Station. Early intervention by a veterinary professional can help prevent further injury and start your pet on the path to recovery.

Why Does ACL Injury Happen in Dogs?

The cranial cruciate ligament (CCL), commonly called the ACL in dogs, is a vital structure in the knee joint that stabilizes the femur and tibia. Injury to this ligament is unfortunately common in dogs of all ages, sizes, and breeds. The causes of ACL tears in dogs include sudden twisting or pivoting movements during play, chasing, or jumping. Over time, repetitive stress or degeneration of the ligament can also weaken it, making it prone to rupture even during normal activity.

Certain factors make some dogs more susceptible to ACL injuries. These include being overweight, which puts extra strain on the joints, as well as genetic predisposition in breeds such as Labradors, Rottweilers, and Boxers. Age can also play a role, since older dogs may have weaker ligaments due to chronic wear and tear. In some cases, underlying knee conformation issues can contribute to instability, increasing the risk for tears.

Understanding these risk factors can help pet owners in Whitehouse Station and surrounding communities take proactive steps in managing their dog’s joint health. At Hunterdon Hills Animal Hospital, our veterinarians are committed to providing guidance on both prevention and early detection, so your dog can lead an active, pain-free life.

What to Expect from Dog ACL Surgery in Whitehouse Station

When an ACL injury is diagnosed, surgical intervention is often the best way to restore function and relieve pain. Non-surgical management may be considered in very small dogs or when surgery isn’t possible, but for most medium and large breed dogs, surgery offers the highest chance of full recovery. At Hunterdon Hills Animal Hospital, we provide advanced ACL repair surgery services for dogs to address this common orthopedic problem.

The Surgical Process

Dog ACL surgery in Whitehouse Station typically involves one of several techniques, with the goal of stabilizing the knee and allowing the ligament to heal. The most common procedures are the extracapsular repair (lateral suture technique), tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO), and tibial tuberosity advancement (TTA). The approach chosen depends on your dog’s size, age, activity level, and the specifics of the injury.

During your dog’s surgical appointment, our veterinary professionals will administer anesthesia and carefully monitor your pet’s vital signs throughout the procedure. The damaged ligament is either repaired or replaced with a synthetic material, and in some methods, the bone is reshaped to improve joint mechanics. After surgery, your dog will be closely supervised as they wake up in our recovery area.

Canine Knee Surgery Recovery and Aftercare

The recovery period following dog ACL surgery is a critical phase for your pet’s healing. Initially, your dog will need to rest and avoid strenuous activity. Your veterinarian will provide pain management and, if necessary, anti-inflammatory medications. The first two weeks are especially important for monitoring the incision site and preventing infection.

Gradually, your pet’s activity will be increased under the guidance of our veterinary team. Controlled leash walks, passive range-of-motion exercises, and physical rehabilitation may be recommended to restore strength and flexibility. Complete recovery can take anywhere from eight weeks to several months, depending on your dog’s age, health status, and adherence to the prescribed rehabilitation plan. Our team of veterinarians will schedule follow-up visits to assess progress and make any necessary adjustments to the recovery plan, ensuring the best possible outcome for your dog.

For more insight into the specialized procedures we offer, you can explore our specialty surgery services for complex veterinary procedures.

Prevention and Home Care for Healthy Canine Knees

While not all ACL injuries in dogs can be prevented, there are practical steps pet owners in Whitehouse Station can take to reduce the risk. Maintaining a healthy weight for your dog is one of the most important measures; excess pounds put unnecessary stress on the knees and other joints. Regular, low-impact exercise such as walking or swimming helps keep muscles strong and ligaments flexible.

In addition, providing your pet with a balanced diet that supports joint health, and supplementing with veterinarian-recommended products like glucosamine or omega-3 fatty acids, may help protect against ligament degeneration. It’s also wise to avoid activities that involve sudden twisting or jumping, especially for breeds at higher risk. If your dog already has a history of knee problems, consider using ramps instead of stairs and providing soft bedding for extra joint support.

Our veterinarians are always available to discuss tailored prevention strategies based on your dog’s breed, age, and lifestyle. Routine wellness visits at Hunterdon Hills Animal Hospital are an excellent opportunity to address potential orthopedic issues before they become serious.

When Should You Seek Veterinary Care for a Suspected ACL Injury?

Any time you notice your dog limping, refusing to put weight on a hind leg, or showing signs of pain and swelling in a knee, it is important to schedule an appointment with a trusted veterinarian in Whitehouse Station as soon as possible. Delaying care can lead to further joint damage, muscle atrophy, and chronic pain, which may complicate recovery. If your dog’s symptoms worsen suddenly, or if there is a complete loss of function in the leg, prompt veterinary attention is critical.

Our team at Hunterdon Hills Animal Hospital is equipped to diagnose and treat ACL injuries with compassion and expertise. We use advanced diagnostic imaging and thorough physical exams to evaluate the extent of your dog’s injury and recommend the most effective treatment plan. Whether you’re searching for a “quality veterinary services near me” or need help with canine knee surgery recovery in Whitehouse Station, you can trust our veterinary professionals to support you every step of the way.

Partnering with Hunterdon Hills Animal Hospital for Your Dog’s ACL Surgery

Facing ACL surgery can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. At Hunterdon Hills Animal Hospital, our veterinarians are dedicated to providing exceptional care for every pet and every family. From the initial diagnosis through surgery and rehabilitation, we are committed to supporting your dog’s recovery and long-term mobility. Our approach emphasizes open communication, personalized treatment plans, and compassionate follow-up care.

If you believe your dog may need dog ACL surgery in Whitehouse Station or are concerned about their mobility, we encourage you to reach out and schedule an appointment. Our specialty surgery services for complex veterinary procedures and orthopedic veterinary care and surgery services are available to pets in Whitehouse Station and surrounding communities. Let us help you find the “best veterinarian near me” for your dog’s needs.

For more information or to arrange a consultation, contact our veterinary team at Hunterdon Hills Animal Hospital, 411 US Highway 22 East, Whitehouse Station, NJ 08889 or call (908) 923-7728. Together, we can give your pet the best chance at a healthy, active life after canine knee surgery.

This blog is intended for informational purposes only and should not replace professional veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment recommendations specific to your pet’s condition. For additional resources, visit the American College of Veterinary Surgeons at acvs.org.