My dog has an ACL injury?

Question

My Golden Retriever just had ACL surgery on her left knee - approx. 4 weeks ago. During a follow up visit at the vet yesterday, she ruptured the ACL in her right knee. I'm looking for any advice/suggestions on how to proceed. Do I go through surgery again, knowing that she's not fully recovered from the previous surgery, or is it better to make the horrid choice to put her down? She's only 3.5 years old.

Answer 1

Maybe I took things to the extreme but I had the surgery done on BOTH knees at the same time in my female shih tzu.  I'm sure it was alot easier to keep her resting quietly than a 3.5 year old Golden, but she survived it just fine at 13 years of age.  She's 17 now and her knees don't bother her at all.  My opinion would be to go ahead and have the second surgery.  What does your vet recommend?

Good luck to you and your girl!!

Answer 2

I told you that putting her in the wrestling industry was a bad idea.  But did you listen?  No!  :D

Answer 3

Put her down because of an ACL injury?  That's a bit extreme.  If the cost is a big issue try a vetrinary college for the surgery.

Answer 4

Oh...well an ACL tear is ultra serious.  Happens in sports a lot, such as football.  It's one of the 4 main knee ligaments.  So if it ruptured , even after already having a surgery, I think you will have to put her down. But you shouldnt base your decision f any of us, instead you should consult your vet for the next step. :)

Answer 5

If your vet thinks her prognosis would be good after the surgery then go ahead.  He may want to give her some time to heal the first surgery, but I would go ahead if he says it's ok.  I have a golden as well, and if surgery would not affect his quality of living then I would definitely do it.