Companion Animal Welfare

Dog Welfare and CCL Injury: Prevention and Management

Cranial cruciate ligament rupture is the most common orthopaedic condition in dogs, causing significant pain and disability. Prevention through weight management and exercise moderation is possible.

Key Facts

CCL rupture affects over one million dogs annually in the UK
Excess body weight is the strongest modifiable risk factor for CCL injury
Surgical repair including TPLO and TTA returns most dogs to good function
Physiotherapy following surgical repair accelerates recovery and reduces recurrence risk
Some breeds including Labrador retrievers and Rottweilers have significantly higher genetic risk

Welfare Considerations

CCL injury causes acute pain and prolonged disability in enormous numbers of dogs. Maintaining healthy body weight is the most accessible preventive measure owners can take for this common, expensive welfare problem.

What You Can Do

Maintain your dog at a healthy body weight throughout their life
Warm up dogs before intensive exercise and avoid sudden high-intensity activities
Consult a veterinary orthopaedic specialist promptly after suspected CCL injury