01/31/2026
This dog has been diagnosed with a cranial cruciate ligament injury, the most common orthopedic condition in dogs. Unlike humans, CCL rupture in dogs is typically degenerative rather than traumatic.
Because this is a degenerative disease process that affects both stifles, dogs that rupture one cranial cruciate ligament have a 30-50% risk of developing CCL disease in the other knee, which is the case for this patient.
Rupture of the cranial cruciate ligament results in stifle instability, known as cranial drawer and tibial thrust. This instability, along with joint effusion and potential meniscal injury, leads to the lameness observed.
Surgical stabilization is recommended in most dogs to restore function, reduce pain, and allow a return to normal activity. When surgery is not an option, non-surgical management should be addressed and may include weight loss, nutraceuticals, NSAIDs, and structured exercise or rehabilitation.
👕: FIGS
