Recovery From Hamstring Grafting of ACL Tears in a Dog

A dog's knee joint consists of two ligaments crossing each other to hold the tiba and patella together in proper place; the ACL -- or anterior cruciate ligament -- is in the front of the knee. Sometimes referred to as the CCL in dogs (canine cruciate ligament), it works in conjunction with the rear ligament to keep the bones from rubbing across each other. When a dog has an ACL injury, he may limp, exhibit a hesitancy to sit down, or hold his paw up. Surgery is often required for repair; one method to stabilize the knee joint involves cutting sections of the hamstring muscle on the back of the leg and securing them to the front muscles to provide a natural "graft," rather than introducing a foreign stabilizer to the dog's knee joint.

  1. Environment

    • You can anticipate keeping a recovering dog quiet for at least two to three weeks post-surgery, and possibly up to eight weeks depending on the speed of recovery. The dog should be kept in a quiet area, away from children and other pets; additionally, the area should be small and contained so that he cannot run or jump during recovery. A closet or bathroom that allows the dog to completely stretch out but restricts vigorous movement is recommended. Bedding should be clean, warm and dry, and the area free of extreme temperature changes or drafts.

    Activity

    • Initially, the dog's movements will be completely restricted to avoid any attempt at weight-bearing on the repaired knee. You will need to assist the dog in going outside to relieve himself during this time, which could take up to two weeks. Dogs should be kept on a leash even while being carried during this period, to avoid a sudden attempt at running while outside. A special sling may be recommended to provide additional security against the dog's attempt at weight-bearing on the joint. Playing is initially prohibited; as the dog begins to heal and the joint gains strength, your vet can recommend light activities to keep the dog entertained. You should not bathe the dog until the suture shows significant healing to avoid infection.

    Medication

    • Initially your dog should take anti-inflammatories that are free of steroids to reduce swelling and help manage pain. To promote speedy healing in the joint, your vet may prescribe a chondroprotective supplement that contains glucosamine, vitamins and fatty acids, among other things. Available by prescription or over the counter, these compounds can reduce inflammation and pain by encouraging natural lubrication of the dog's knee joint. Your vet may also recommend ice packs on the knee a few times each day to help reduce swelling, as well.

    Rehabilitation

    • Your vet may recommend physical therapy exercises after several weeks of recovery; these can usually be done at home, although sometimes professional assistance is recommended. Gentle stretches and movements are geared toward helping the dog regain his range of motion. Walking will be prohibited for some time, but after several weeks, he may be allowed hydrotherapy (physical therapy in a pool environment), moving up to controlled, leashed walks that are low-impact on the knee.