This is Jessie the 11-year-old Staffy cross before having cruciate surgery performed by my colleague Dr Joe Covelli.
Vet Talk
AT OUR clinic we frequently examine dogs that are suddenly lame in one of their back legs.
A common diagnosis is a damaged anterior cruciate ligament of the knee.
This is the same injury that footballers often suffer.
The cruciate ligament consists of a tough fibrous band connecting two bones – the femur/thigh bone and the tibia/shin bone.
Rupture or tearing of this ligament causes an unstable and painful knee joint and eventually leads to arthritis.
Active, overweight, middle-aged dogs are at highest risk of cruciate disease, however any pet can be affected.
Often the injury occurs while pets are running, jumping or playing.
Treatment varies depending on the severity of the lameness, size of the pet and activity levels.
Many small dogs will respond well to strict rest, anti-inflammatory medication and arthritis treatments.
Larger dogs usually require surgery on the affected knee to examine the knee joint and perform corrective surgery. Your own vet may be experienced in this procedure or they may refer you to an orthopaedic specialist veterinarian who can offer a range of corrective procedures.
