Cranial Cruciate Ligament Rupture

[chopsuey]

I have a 6 year old German Shepherd who has partially torn his cruciate ligament. Following several visits to the vets, we've been told they will not operate on him as he already has elbow dysplasia and this will hinder his recovery. I am devestated, as he is otherwise in good health and I know I must, at some stage, make a decision. What I want to know is can I take him swimming or will this damage the ligament further? After reading the other posts it seems this is a very popular injury in dogs but does any one have a large dog who has not had surgery and been ok?

[Labadorer]

I don't know if you went to a Orthopedic Vet or your regular veterinarian - not all are created equal.
You must be proactive in your pet's healthcare the same way you must be in your own.
I have a 6yr old Lab who exhibited all the signs of the CCL injury. I am a member of a kennel club and started asking around and looking for a SPECIALIST - got on the web and read different articles - well, I know I did the right thing - I am lucky enough to be close enough to VOSM in MD and let me tell you I would throw my own knee up on the table! Just look at their website, read and learn and then where ever you are check it out - it can make a world of difference in the expected outcome. We are just starting out on our journey and I pray that a less invasive (stem cell repair) treatment will be the answer - either way we are willing to go the distance! Good luck with your GSD.

[chopsuey]

Thankyou Labrador for your reply. Unfortunately on the 24th April my gorgeous boy had to be put to sleep as he suddenly, completely went lame. As you can imagine as a family, we are totally devastated. I was warned that without the operation the ligaments would tear completely and this is exactly what happened. My usual vet did tell me that he would not refer me to a specialist because Zak had severe osteo arthiritis and he would need to have good mobility to carry his leg, post op. I can totally understand his decision as he has had constant problems with his legs since I purchased him. I have been living in hope that all the treatment and meds he'd been on, would work wonders but they didn't.
What I do know is that Zak was loved and cared for by us all. The worst thing is that because he was only 6, he still looked young and wanted to play and run around and it was hard to constantly discourage this activity. The Vet also informed us he got the best temprament of a GSD he'd ever seen. He was a special boy.
I do hope things are better for you and your dog has a long and happy life.
Once again thank you.
chopsuey

[1Bigjobby]

Just wanted to let you know I understand about having mixed feelings. I have a 6 yr old Chesapeake Bay Retriever that had a partial tear. This evening, after a swim, he ran toward the car and ruptured it completely. I am devastated for him because he lives to play. This incident prompted my joining the forum. (never joined one before!) Looks like we have no choice but to have surgery now. I don't know much about the surgery yet. I hate seeing him in pain. Have you checked with any other vets?
michelle

[Labadorer]

Be sure to get to an ORTHOPEDIC veterinarian and if you are not comfortable with that one or want a second opinion do it!
Next Monday (5/04) we begin our journey with a partial tear and I am hoping all goes well.
Take a look at www.vosm.com to get an idea of what to look for.
Good luck on your journey.