Find Help for a torn ACL in Dogs

ACL Tear in Dogs (CCL Injury) & TPLO Surgery in Stratham, NH

Helping Your Dog Walk Comfortably Again

A torn ACL (also called a CCL injury) is one of the most common orthopedic conditions in dogs—and one of the most painful. If your dog is limping, avoiding weight on a leg, or struggling to stand, a ligament injury may be the cause.

At Vogel Veterinary Emergency and Specialty, we provide advanced veterinary surgery for canine torn ACL injuries in Stratham, NH, helping dogs across Exeter, Portsmouth, and the Seacoast region return to comfortable, active lives.

Our experienced surgical team performs TPLO (Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy), a highly effective procedure designed to stabilize the knee and restore mobility.

Illustrated medical diagram of a dog's healthy leg and knee joint
Illustrated medical diagrams of an ACL tear in dogs knee
Illustrated medical diagram of a dog's healthy leg and knee joint
Illustrated medical diagrams of an ACL tear in dogs knee

What Is an ACL Tear in Dogs? (CCL)

The ACL in dogs (called the cranial cruciate ligament or CCL) stabilizes the knee joint. When this ligament tears:

  • The knee becomes unstable
  • Walking becomes painful
  • Arthritis can develop quickly
 

CCL injuries often happen gradually due to degeneration, though sudden injury can also occur.

Signs Your Dog May Have a Torn ACL

  • Limping or favoring one leg
  • Difficulty standing or sitting
  • Stiffness after rest
  • Swelling around the knee
  • Reluctance to run or jump
 

If you notice these signs, early evaluation is important to prevent further joint damage.

A deep dive into more signs your dog may have a torn ACL

What Is TPLO Surgery?

TPLO (Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy) is one of the most advanced and effective procedures for treating canine torn ACL injuries.

Instead of replacing the ligament, TPLO:

  • Changes the angle of the tibia
  • Stabilizes the knee joint
  • Eliminates abnormal movement
  • Allows the body to function without the torn ligament
 

This results in improved stability, reduced pain, and better long-term outcomes.

A deep dive into what TPLO surgery involves.

Why Choose TPLO?

TPLO is often recommended because it:

  • Provides excellent long-term stability
  • Allows faster return to activity
  • Reduces arthritis progression
  • Works well for active and large-breed dogs
 

Our canine orthopedic surgeon carefully evaluates each patient to determine if TPLO is the best option.

What to Expect

Before surgery:

  • Orthopedic exam and imaging
  • Diagnosis confirmation
  • Discussion of treatment options
  • Pre-surgical planning

During surgery:

  • Advanced anesthesia monitoring
  • Precision surgical technique
  • Dedicated surgical team

After surgery:

  • Pain management
  • ICU monitoring if needed
  • Detailed recovery plan
  • Follow-up care and guidance

We remain available to support you throughout your pet’s recovery.

What to Expect

Before Surgery

  • Orthopedic exam and imaging
  • Diagnosis confirmation
  • Discussion of treatment options
  • Pre-surgical planning

During Surgery

  • Advanced anesthesia monitoring
  • Precision surgical technique
  • Dedicated surgical team

After surgery

  • Pain management
  • ICU monitoring if needed
  • Detailed recovery plan
  • Follow-up care and guidance

We remain available to support you throughout your pet’s recovery.

Vet tech with 2 happy terrier dogs after canine surgery at Seacoast Emergency and Referral Veterinary Hospital

Recovery & Prognosis

Most dogs recover very well after TPLO surgery.

Typical recovery includes:

  • Controlled activity for several weeks
  • Gradual return to normal movement
  • Physical rehabilitation (when appropriate)

Many dogs regain excellent function and return to walking, running, and playing comfortably.

Continuous Monitoring • Dedicated Nurse • ICU Recovery

Continuous Monitoring

Dedicated Nurse

ICU Recovery

Dog's legs on a cozy blanket after an acl tear

When Is Surgery Urgent?

While not always an immediate emergency, delaying treatment can:

  • Increase pain
  • Worsen joint damage
  • Lead to arthritis

If your dog suddenly cannot bear weight or is in severe pain, visit our emergency team immediately.

ACL Tear in Dogs FAQs

Get the answers you need from our pet surgery team.

Prepare a quiet, comfortable recovery space at home. Review all instructions provided by our team and ask any questions in advance so you feel fully prepared for your pet’s care.

Yes. We offer emergency surgical care through our 24/7 emergency service. If your pet needs urgent surgery, come directly to our hospital.

If it is an emergency, you can bring in your pet any time day or night without an appoint and we will see you.

Otherwise, the first step is contacting our hospital to make an appointment. Our surgical coordinator will schedule your pet’s procedure and provide all necessary pre-operative instructions.

Yes, we accept pet insurance and can assist with pre-approvals and claim submissions.

Your pet is cared for by a licensed nurse throughout surgery and recovery. After anesthesia, they are monitored in our ICU, where our team ensures a safe and stable recovery.

Follow-up care depends on the procedure. If needed, we will provide clear instructions and help coordinate ongoing care to support your pet’s full recovery.

Get Your Dog Back to Comfort and Mobility

If you suspect your dog has a torn ACL, early evaluation makes a difference. Our experienced surgical team provides advanced TPLO surgery with a focus on safety, comfort, and long-term success.

Serving the Seacoast Region

We proudly provide care services for pets in:

Stratham, NH  |  Exeter, NH |  Portsmouth, NH |  Greenland, NH |  Newmarket, NH |  Hampton, NH |  Surrounding Rockingham County communities