acl dog is limping; TPLO Surgery options ; ACL Alternatives;

Question
I have a 2 year 9 month American Staffordshire Terrier Lab mix, she weighs 80 lbs. Several months ago she was running with my other dog who is the same kind, a half a year older, but I think more pit and very fast. I didn't see it happen but I'm assuming she hurt herself as she came in limping. I gave it two months thinking it would heal as she really didn't seem to be in pain and let me move it and touch it. I give lots of natural supplements, oils and a raw diet and no treats with any grain. I use to take her for long walks daily, but after seeing the vet this week he suggested I do short walks more frequently and on flat ground. He diagnosed her with an acl tear in her rear knee. Told me the only way to fix it was probably surgery, but I declined and said I wanted to try a natural approach. She takes a mineral and herbal supplement by Dr. Harveys, a glucosomine supplement and oil and he added SOD saying he has seen it work wonders. I don't know if there is anything else I should do as I do give quality supplements and food. I give her a lot of green tripe as I heard that was good for her. I'm hoping I'm not doing her harm by declining the surgery as I've read it can add extra burden on the other side and possibly affect the other leg because shes shifting her weight to one side more. What I've noticed is the limping mostly occurs after shes been laying down for awhile, when she gets up she doesn't put weight on it and limps, but then it seems to get a bit better after shes walked on it for a bit. She really doesn't look overweight, but I'm trying to lean her out a little more so it's not so much on her leg and knee.

Answer
Follow up ---- Staffie with ACL problems...---

Please let me know what happens.  If you decide to get the surgery done??? Or, if you decide to use some supplements.
KEEP me posted.
Marie    (  mtnmom@gci.net )
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Hi Linda, ACL surgery is always offered by most Vets.  Sometimes it is needed and there is no other choice.  Other times, you have options with natural supplements and anti-inflammatories.
Here are some links that may help you decide what needs to be done...
Hope this helps...
Bichon Limping:
http://en.allexperts.com/q/Alternative-Medicine-Pets-3721/2009/4/arthritis-baby-...

TPLO Surgery : bulldog
http://en.allexperts.com/q/Bulldogs-2360/2009/3/Luxated-Patella-surgery-TPOL-1.h...

Looks like you have done well with feeding and supplements.
YOU may want to add some Omega 3s or Salmon Oil....
Also, read about the NuVET - Very good product - does wonders...
see links above


Marie Peppers LPN MA
mtnmom@gci.net
USE my private e-mail..... Keep me posted!