Surgery
ACL Repair in Cedar Springs, MI
A torn knee ligament can take an active dog from chasing balls to barely touching a back leg to the ground. At Cedar Animal Hospital, we help pets from Cedar Springs and all over West Michigan get back on their feet with careful diagnosis, surgical repair, and a recovery plan you can follow at home.
Understanding ACL Repair
In people, it is called the anterior cruciate ligament, or ACL. In dogs and cats, the same ligament is called the cranial cruciate ligament, or CCL. It holds the shin bone steady under the thigh bone. When it partly or fully tears, the knee becomes unstable and painful, and arthritis can start to build. Tears can happen suddenly during play, but in many dogs the ligament weakens slowly over time before it finally gives way.
Surgery is often the most reliable way to stabilize the knee, especially in medium and large dogs. Our hospital uses the I-LOC bone repair system for the repair of fractures and ligaments, and your veterinarian will explain which repair approach fits your pet’s size, age, and activity level. Dr. Lawrence Nauta focuses his continuing education on orthopedics, and our team works together to plan each knee repair from the first exam through the final recheck.
What to Expect During ACL Repair
From the first limp to the last recheck, here is how we care for a pet with a torn cruciate ligament at Cedar Animal Hospital.
1. Orthopedic Exam
Your veterinarian watches your pet walk, then gently feels the knee for swelling, pain, and abnormal movement. Some pets need light sedation so we can check the joint without tensing up.
2. Imaging and Pre-Surgical Testing
Digital radiographs show the joint, look for arthritis, and help with surgical planning. Bloodwork checks that your pet is healthy enough for anesthesia. For complex cases, our in-house CT scan can give an even more detailed view.
3. Surgical Repair
Under anesthesia and with pain control, your pet’s knee is examined and stabilized in one of our surgical suites. We will explain the technique we recommend before the day of surgery, along with an estimate.
4. Rehabilitation at Home
Recovery takes several weeks of controlled activity. We send you home with medications, a step-by-step exercise plan, and recheck dates, including follow-up radiographs when needed. Our team may also discuss laser therapy as part of recovery.
Why ACL Repair Matters for Your Pet
An unstable knee rarely fixes itself in larger pets. Treating it helps protect the joint and gets your pet comfortable again.
Less Pain
A stable knee hurts less. Most pets begin using the leg more as healing progresses and their activity is slowly increased.
Slowing Arthritis
The longer a knee stays unstable, the more wear the joint takes. Repair helps limit ongoing damage, though some arthritis can still develop over time.
Protecting the Other Knee
Pets with one injured knee often put extra load on the other back leg. Addressing the problem helps your pet move more evenly and comfortably.
Signs of a Torn Cruciate Ligament
Watch for these changes, especially after exercise or rest:
- Sudden limping or holding up a back leg
- Sitting with one back leg kicked out to the side
- Stiffness when getting up or after a walk
- Trouble jumping into the car or onto furniture
- Swelling or thickening on the inside of the knee
If you notice any of these signs, call us to schedule an exam. Pets who are in a lot of pain or cannot bear weight can be seen by our urgent and emergency team.
Can a Torn Ligament Be Managed Without Surgery?
Some small or less active pets improve with strict rest, weight management, pain control, and rehabilitation. Your veterinarian will talk through medical and surgical options honestly so you can choose what is best for your pet and your family.
Practice Highlights
Cedar Animal Hospital is proud to care for pets from Cedar Springs and across West Michigan:
- I-LOC Bone Repair System: Used for the repair of fractures and ligaments
- Multiple Surgical Suites: Dedicated space for orthopedic and other procedures
- Advanced Imaging: Digital radiography and an in-house CT scan
- AAHA-Accredited: Caring for pets since April 1993
- Flexible Payment Options: Cash, check, major credit cards, CareCredit, and Scratchpay
Schedule Your Pet's ACL Repair Consultation Today
If your dog or cat is limping on a back leg, our team is here to find the cause and talk through your options. Call Cedar Animal Hospital at (616) 696-1212 to book an orthopedic exam, or visit us at 3705 Gentle Way, Cedar Springs, MI 49319, across the street from Meijer, behind Aldi.
ACL Repair: Frequently Asked Questions
Is a dog’s ACL the same as a person’s?
It is very similar. In dogs and cats, the ligament is called the cranial cruciate ligament, or CCL, and it does the same job of keeping the knee stable. Unlike many human injuries, dog tears often come from gradual weakening of the ligament rather than a single accident.
How is a torn cruciate ligament diagnosed?
Your veterinarian examines the knee for pain, swelling, and abnormal movement, sometimes with light sedation. Radiographs show the joint and any arthritis, and our in-house CT scan is available for more complex cases. To book an exam, call (616) 696-1212.
How much does ACL repair cost?
The cost depends on your pet’s size, the repair technique, imaging, and aftercare. After an exam, we give you a written estimate before any surgery. Please call (616) 696-1212 for an estimate. We accept CareCredit and Scratchpay, and if you have pet insurance we provide the records and invoices you need to file your claim.
How long is recovery after ACL surgery?
Recovery usually takes several weeks to a few months of gradually increasing activity. Your pet will need leash walks only, no jumping or running, and regular rechecks. We give you a clear plan for each stage so you know exactly what is safe.
Can my pet tear the ligament in the other knee?
Yes, some pets go on to injure the other knee, especially if the ligaments weakened over time. Keeping your pet at a healthy weight and following the recovery plan closely can help. If you notice new limping on the other leg, call (616) 696-1212.
