Cruciate Ligament Tear in Dogs: Causes, Costs, and Care

13 Mar Cruciate Ligament Tear in Dogs: Causes, Costs, and Care

A cruciate ligament tear is one of the most common injuries in dogs, causing significant pain and mobility issues. If your dog has a torn ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament), they may require surgery to stabilize their knee joint and regain mobility. But how much does dog ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) surgery cost in Australia? And what are your options if you can’t afford the surgery? 

In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about cruciate ligament injuries in dogs, including surgery types, recovery times, and the associated cost of care. 

What Is a Cruciate Ligament Tear in Dogs? 

The cruciate ligament is a vital structure within your dog’s knee joint, acting like a strong rope that connects the shinbone (tibia) to the thighbone (femur). This ligament plays a crucial role in stabilizing the knee and enabling smooth movement. 

A cruciate ligament tear, often referred to as a “torn ACL” in dogs, occurs when this vital ligament is damaged or ruptured. This injury can happen suddenly due to a twisting motion or gradually due to wear and tear on the joint. 

Recognizing the Signs: 

• Limping: This is the most common symptom, often noticeable in one or both hind legs. 

• Reluctance to move: Your dog may be hesitant to jump, run, or even stand. 

• Pain: You may notice signs of pain, such as whining or yelping when touched. 

• Swelling: Swelling around the knee joint may be present. 

• Difficulty bearing weight: Your dog may shift their weight to avoid putting pressure on the injured leg. 

What Causes a Cruciate Ligament Tear in Dogs?

There are several factors that can contribute to a cruciate ligament tear in dogs: 

1. Genetics: Some breeds are more prone to this injury due to genetic predisposition. Labradors, Rottweilers, Golden Retrievers, and Boxers are more susceptible. 

1. Obesity: Excess weight places additional stress on a dog’s joints, increasing the risk of ligament injury. 

1. High Activity Levels: Active dogs that frequently run, jump, or make sudden directional changes are at higher risk. 

1. Aging: As dogs get older, their ligaments can weaken, making them more prone to tears. 

1. Trauma: In some cases, a sudden injury, such as slipping or landing awkwardly, can cause the ligament to tear. 

ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) Surgery for dogs 

Surgery is often the most effective way to treat a cruciate ligament tear in dogs and restore stability to the knee joint. Without surgical intervention, the knee remains unstable, leading to chronic pain, lameness, and long-term joint damage such as arthritis. There are various surgical techniques available, including Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO), Tibial Tuberosity Advancement (TTA), and Lateral Suture Stabilization. These procedures aim to reduce pain, improve mobility, and prevent further deterioration of the joint. While the cost of surgery can be significant, the long-term benefits often outweigh the financial burden, ensuring a better quality of life for your dog. 

Cruciate Ligament Dog Surgery Cost 

Dog ACL surgery cost can vary depending on a lot of different factors. However, the surgery to repair a torn ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) usually lies between AUD 3500 and AUD 7000.  

Some of the factors that determine dog ACL surgery cost include:  

1. Surgical Technique: The surgical technique being used is usually the biggest determining factor of the cruciate ligament dog surgery cost. A TPLO surgery (Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy) usually costs more than a TTO (Tibial Tuberosity Advancement). If the surgery is done using the Zlig procedure, the costs can go up even further.
2. Dog’s size and weight: Larger dogs typically require more anaesthesia and surgical supplies, leading to higher costs.
3. Pre-operative diagnostics: X-rays or other imaging tests may be needed before surgery, adding to the overall cost.
4. Post-operative care: Medication, rehabilitation therapy, and follow-up appointments can add to the total cruciate ligament dog surgery cost.

At the time of publishing, a Lateral Suture Stabilisation costs about $3500, while a Zlig procedure costs about $6900 at Southern Cross Veterinary Clinic.  

Kindly call the clinic at 1300 DOC SAM (1300 362 726) or send an email at [email protected] to enquire about the cost of the Cruciate Ligament Dog Surgery Cost closer to the date of surgery for more accurate pricing. 

Is ACL Surgery Worth It for a Dog? 

Yes, ACL surgery is generally worth it for most dogs suffering from a cruciate ligament tear. Without surgical intervention, dogs often experience ongoing pain, limited mobility, and progressive joint degeneration. Over time, the instability in the knee joint can lead to arthritis, causing permanent damage that greatly affects a dog’s quality of life. 

Surgery not only restores joint stability but also helps reduce pain and allows your dog to return to their normal activities. It prevents further damage to the affected knee and reduces the risk of the opposite knee tearing, which is a common occurrence in dogs with untreated ligament injuries. 

While dog ACL surgery cost may seem high, the long-term benefits far outweigh the expense. Dogs that undergo surgery are more likely to regain their mobility and live a more active, pain-free life. For pet owners concerned about their dog’s well-being, surgical correction provides the best chance of a full recovery. 

However, surgery may not be suitable for every dog. Factors such as age, overall health, and activity level should be considered. For senior dogs or dogs with underlying health issues, conservative management options such as weight control, physical therapy, and pain management may be more appropriate. For instance, it would not be a good idea to get an ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) surgery done for a 14-year-old dog. 

What If I Can’t Afford ACL Surgery for My Dog? 

Not every pet owner is financially prepared to cover the cost of ACL surgery, which can range from $3,500 to $7,000 per knee in Australia. However, if you’re unable to afford the surgery, it’s important to know that you still have options to manage your dog’s condition and improve their quality of life. While surgery is often the best long-term solution to restore knee stability, reduce pain, and prevent arthritis, there are alternative approaches that can help your dog live more comfortably without breaking the bank. 

Here’s a breakdown of what you can do if you can’t afford ACL surgery for your dog: 

1. Conservative Management: Non-surgical approaches like weight management, physical therapy, and pain relief can help alleviate discomfort and slow joint degeneration. Knee braces can also provide support. 

1. Payment Plans & Insurance: Many veterinary clinics offer payment plans, allowing you to spread dog torn ACL surgery cost over time. At Southern Cross Veterinary Clinic we offer AfterPay, Zip Pay, Open Pay and Vetpay to help pet owners who do not have the required funds for treatment at the time of surgery. You should also check your pet insurance to see if ACL surgery is covered. 

1. Charities & Financial Assistance: Some non-profits, such as Pet Medical Crisis offer financial assistance to pet owners facing veterinary bills. Charities like Project HoPe help provide free veterinary care, including surgeries, to the pets of the homeless and domestic violence victims. 

1. Alternative Surgical Techniques: Consider lateral suture repair, a more affordable surgery option compared to TPLO or TTA, especially for smaller dogs. 

1. Home Care: Limit your dog’s activity, provide supportive bedding, and use ramps to avoid strain on the knee. 

Contact Southern Cross Vet for More Information 

If you’re concerned about your dog’s knee health or need advice on the cost of cruciate ligament surgery, our experienced vets at Southern Cross Veterinary Clinic are here to help. 

Call us at 1300 DOC SAM (1300 362 726) today to schedule a consultation and discuss the best treatment options for your pet.