Anterior Cruciate Ligaments in Dogs
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is a component of your dog's knee. The cruciate ligaments are vital for allowing proper knee movement. Unfortunately, ruptured cruciate ligaments, including ACL tears, are among the most common dog injuries.
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What is the ACL?
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Your dog's knee is comprised of three bones--the femur, patella and tibia--and several joining ligaments. Two ligaments, the anterior cruciate ligament (at the back of the leg), together with the posterior cruciate ligament (toward the front of the leg) cross between the tibia and the femur, allowing for proper movement of the knee.
Injury causes
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A sudden twisting motion of your dog's rear legs, a traumatic injury or a degenerative ACL can lead to a tear or rupture. Obesity can also lead to tears of the ACL.
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Dogs affected
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Certain breeds are more prone to ACL injuries than others, including: the St. Bernard, rottweiler, Labrador retriever, Newfoundland and bichon frise. Dogs that participate in sports that involve quick turns, twisting or sprinting motions (such as agility or dock jumping) are more apt to suffer from this type of injury, although it can happen to any dog.
Prevention
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According to Wendy Balzer, veterinary surgeon and director of the Small Animal Rehabilitation Center at Oregon State University's College of Veterinary Medicine, there are three ways to prevent this type of injury. Maintain your dog's healthy weight, provide your dog with regular exercise and ensure that your dog is physically prepared to take on major physical outings.
Treatments
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A complete ACL tear must be surgically repaired. However, Balzer reports of new research which indicates that partial tears may respond well to rehabilitative therapy including underwater treadmills, laser therapy and/or resistance-training exercises.
Warning
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It is important to seek out veterinary care if you notice your dog limping. ACL tears that are not treated can lead to long-term lameness in your dog.
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References
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Mike Baird
