My dog can't get up after ACL surgery. When should I be concerned?

Question

My 10 yr old dog had surgery to repair a torn ACL. She is overweight but was able to get up before the surgery on June 8 but has not been able to get up since. At what point is this a major concern? I have an injured arm and I am not able to help her get up. Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Female | spayed | 10 years and 1 month old | 86 lbs

Sarah Box, BVSc · Accepted Answer

I am so sorry to hear Kira is having difficulties after her surgery. It is understandable that she is having troubles standing, and hopefully I can provide you with some options for helping her. Movement and physical therapy after these types of procedures is important. But it must be don't correctly. Encouraging Kira to stand and move around on her own will be difficult at first but she will get stronger as the days pass. Rather than trying to lift her with your hands, try passing a towel or bed sheet under her belly, just in front of her back legs, to make a sling. Then you can lift this-it will provide more support for Kira and hopefully be more manageable with your injured arm. Try and find someone (a neighbor or friend) who can come help if you need extra assistance. Ensuring that Kira takes her post-Surgery pain medications as prescribe is very important too. If she is very painful she will be more reluctant to move around. Once Kira is moving around normally, has recovered from her surgery and is given the 'all clear' to return to normal activity by your veterinarian then it would be a good idea to try and achieve some weight loss for her. Being overweight not only puts extra strain on her joints (especially the one that has just been repaired) but it also puts her at much higher risk of rupturing the ligament in her other leg. Please do not hesitate to contact your veterinarian if you feel Kira is not recovering appropriately. Ask them too about any recommended physical therapy routines you can do for her to help improve her mobility. You may be able to find a certified canine rehabilitation specialist in your area too. Good luck, and I hope Kira feels better soon!

My dog can't get up after ACL surgery. When should I be concerned?

Most Helpful Answer

Related Questions

Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?

What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?

My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?

My pet has red spots all over. What's causing them and what to do?

My small pet is limping and can't bear weight. Should I see a vet?

My dwarf hamster has a shut eye and is limping. What should I do?

Share