QUESTION

My small springer spaniel bitch tore her crutiate ligament in one of rear legs and on vets advice I rested her for a few months, and she healed well and I started to walk her again. Trouble is the other day I stupidly allowed her to run free without warming up and it went again. She is having complete rest and she no longer carries it and appears to be on the mend again - apart from a clicking noise coming from her knee. it did click the first time but only for a few days and the vet said the click was common with the injury. Will it heal a second time around? I cannot afford surgery and she doesnt seem to be in any pain.

Matt

ANSWER

Dear Matt,
Cruciate injuries are very common in dogs. In a young dog it is often from trauma. I have found that surgery oftens speeds up healing, but I do know that a lot of dogs are left without surgery, and still make a reasonable recovery. The clicking that you are hearing is due to the loss of fat and synovial fluid from within the joint. This gives a degree of joint laxity (loosness), and thus the clicking that you are hearing. Swimming can help with the dog's exercise needs, as well as build up the injured stifle. Also, glucosamine supplements can be of benefit in the healing, and the future, as often these dogs develop arthritis. If things do not go well, then you may need to ask your vet about the surgical option.

James Haddow