FurWell at Barkingham provides expert ACL (cranial cruciate ligament) repair surgery for dogs in Greenville. CCL tears are one of the most common orthopedic injuries in dogs, and prompt surgical treatment gives your pet the best chance for a full recovery.
The cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) is the equivalent of the ACL in humans. It stabilizes the knee (stifle) joint in dogs. When this ligament tears, it causes immediate pain, lameness, and progressive joint damage. Without surgical repair, arthritis rapidly develops and function deteriorates. Surgery stabilizes the joint, reduces pain, and restores mobility.
We perform radiographs and a thorough orthopedic exam to confirm the diagnosis and plan the surgical approach most appropriate for your dog's size, age, and activity level.
Your dog is under general anesthesia with continuous monitoring. Our team performs the stabilization procedure using sterile technique and appropriate implants.
Post-operative recovery requires strict exercise restriction for 6-8 weeks. We provide a detailed rehabilitation plan and schedule follow-up appointments to monitor progress.
Surgical stabilization of the stifle joint reduces pain immediately and prevents the progressive joint damage that occurs without treatment.
Early surgical repair significantly slows the development of osteoarthritis in the affected joint, preserving long-term function.
Most dogs recover excellent function after ACL repair and can return to normal activities, including running, jumping, and play.
Signs of a CCL tear include sudden lameness or non-weight bearing on a hind leg, swelling around the knee, pain when the joint is manipulated, and progressive muscle loss. Many dogs will initially improve slightly with rest but then relapse. A veterinary examination including radiographs confirms the diagnosis.
Most dogs begin bearing weight on the repaired leg within 2-4 weeks post-surgery. Full recovery typically takes 3-6 months with proper rehabilitation. Strict exercise restriction for the first 6-8 weeks is critical for a successful outcome.
Your dog will need to fast for 8-12 hours before surgery. Arrange for a quiet recovery space at home. Our team will provide a complete recovery protocol and exercise restriction schedule when you schedule the procedure.
Without surgical repair, dogs with CCL tears develop progressive arthritis, chronic pain, and permanent lameness. The opposite leg is also at increased risk of tearing due to compensatory loading. Surgery is strongly recommended for most dogs to prevent these outcomes.
Call us at (864) 458-8500 or visit 1240 E Butler Rd, Greenville, SC 29607. We are open Monday through Thursday, 8am to 4pm. Schedule an orthopedic consultation today.
If your dog is limping or was diagnosed with a CCL tear, contact FurWell at Barkingham. Call (864) 458-8500 or visit 1240 E Butler Rd, Greenville, SC 29607. Open Monday through Thursday, 8am to 4pm.
