potential cruciate problem

Question
Hi there. We have a 2 yr old (just) black dane that began limping after her evening 1 hour walk. There was no known mechanism of injury. She may have slipped on ice or had difficulty in deep snow, we aren't sure. She was on anti inflamms for the first few days and did okay at first, but after a big walk 3 days later (by accident) she limped again. The vet does not think it is hip displasia, but checked both her cruciate ligaments. Her good side showed signs of discomfort, and her bad side she cried. We are trying to reduce her activity and is back on anti inflamms for now. She will get an xray in 3 weeks. Do you have any advice for us? she is in a lot of discomfort (which she normally does not display signs of discomfort when she is sick). The vet said surgery is 3500 to fix. We do not want to go that route. any ideas/supplements?
Thanks,
Kirsten, Andy, and Hula

Answer
Don't walk her so far, she doesn't need that much exercise.  Her joints are still soft and you are potentially causing damage.  If she is already limping you will cause more damage.

Rest her completely for three to six weeks, then gentle exercise building up to perhaps 15 minutes at a time, maximum.