Repairing Torn ACLs

Discover our gentle surgical solutions to restore your pet’s strength.

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Is Your Dog Limping?

A torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the most common orthopedic injuries in active, athletic dogs. Because dogs naturally try to hide their discomfort, knowing the signs can help you act quickly.

  • Suddenly, severe limping in one of the hind legs.
  • Holding the back paw up off the ground or "toe-touching" while standing.
  • Difficulty sitting or sitting with the affected leg awkwardly stretched out.

Did You Know?

Pets often naturally compensate for joint pain, which is why early detection is key. Radiographs (X-rays) help us rule out other issues, but our team can often diagnose an ACL tear right in the exam room through gentle palpation (feeling the joint).

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Finding the Right Path

Depending on your dog’s size, lifestyle, and your budget, there are two primary surgical routes:

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Specialized Referral (TPLO Surgery)

For dogs over 100 lbs or extremely high-drive athletic dogs, we will likely refer you to a board-certified orthopedic specialist for a procedure called a Tibial-Plateau-Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO).

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In-House Solution (Lateral Suture Technique)

For dogs under 100 lbs—or if a specialty referral is financially out of reach—we proudly offer a highly effective, in-house surgical solution performed right here at our center by Dr. Allyson DeLozier.

A Less Invasive, Budget-Friendly Solution

How It Works

Dr. DeLozier carefully loops a specialized medical-grade suture around a tiny ligament behind the knee, threads it through a microscopic channel created in the lower bone, and tightens it. This acts as an "internal splint" to stop the painful sliding motion caused by the torn ligament.

The Benefits

This procedure is significantly less invasive than bone-cutting surgeries (like TPLO) and generally carries a lower risk of severe, long-term complications.

The Recovery

Healing takes teamwork! Your pup will need about 8 weeks of strict exercise restriction (starting with quiet crate rest and transitioning to slow, controlled leash walks). Professional physical therapy can also drastically speed up their recovery.

Let's Get Them Running Again!

Schedule a dedicated consultation with Dr. Allyson DeLozier today to see if our lateral suture surgery is the perfect fit for your pup.