ACL Injuries in Dogs - Find the Best Treatment Options
ACL Injuries in Dogs — Surgery, Home Care, and More
In dogs, what's commonly called an "ACL" injury is really an injury to the cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) — the ligament that stabilizes the knee (stifle) joint. It's one of the most common causes of hind-leg lameness in dogs, and it can range from a partial sprain to a full tear. Treatment depends on the severity of the injury, your dog's size and overall health, and your veterinarian's guidance.
Do Dogs Need Surgery for an ACL Injury?
One of the most common questions we get about ACL injuries is "will my dog need surgery?" There isn't always a clear answer — it depends on the severity, your dog's overall health, and other factors, and it ultimately comes down to a decision between you and your vet. If surgery is required, some owners use a daily joint supplement like Flexpet before and after the procedure to help support healthy cartilage, joint comfort, and a healthy inflammatory response. Discuss any supplement with your vet, as it may fit into the recovery plan.
How Much Does ACL Surgery Cost?
If you've decided your dog needs ACL surgery, you may be wondering about the cost. Many factors go into it, and the price can vary depending on the veterinarian you choose, the region you live in, and the severity of the issue. On average, a traditional ACL repair can cost anywhere between $1,000 and $2,000, and that figure can change if you have pet insurance. For owners for whom surgery is cost-prohibitive, some use a daily joint supplement like Flexpet as part of a long-term joint-support routine.
Home Care for ACL Injuries in Dogs
The right approach depends on the severity and type of injury, but several supportive home measures are available. For some dogs — often smaller dogs under about 30 pounds — rest and restricted activity may be enough. For larger dogs, a veterinarian may recommend anti-inflammatory medication for a period of weeks. An ACL brace is another option; braces range from around $10 to $700 for custom-made versions, and they can offer therapeutic support and stabilization before and after surgery, or in cases where surgery isn't necessary or feasible. Immobilizing and supporting the knee can help with comfort during healing.
A home-care routine can also include an all-natural daily joint supplement. We recommend Flexpet as a comprehensive daily joint supplement to help support cartilage health and a healthy inflammatory response. We back it with a 90-day satisfaction guarantee. You can find more information about Flexpet on our home page, or contact us with specific questions. Flexpet is a supplement, not a medication — it isn't intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, and it isn't a substitute for veterinary care.
Getting Your Dog Help
Deciding whether your dog should have ACL surgery is a case-by-case decision, best made after reviewing all your options with your veterinarian — it can depend on whether your pup has a tear or a sprain, and home care could save you significant cost. Whether your dog is using home care for a sprain or recovering from surgery, a daily joint supplement can be a helpful part of the routine. Flexpet is an all-natural supplement formulated to nourish the joints, support healthy cartilage, support the joint's natural lubricating fluid, and support normal mobility. It's hard to prevent an ACL injury, but it's easy to give your dog supportive care.
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Questions? Our customer care team is available M–F, 9am–6pm EST at 1-800-505-0575. Flexcin International, Inc., 909 NE 27th Ln #3, Cape Coral, FL 33909.