A dog’s body, much like a human’s body, is rather complex and delicate. Sometimes, dogs could encounter trouble with their ligaments, particularly their CCL. A CCL is the canine equivalent to a human’s ACL, which is a ligament that stabilizes the knee by preventing too much movement between the shin bone and the thigh bone.
The good news for dog owners is that CCL injuries do not always require surgery. However, if your dog’s CCL injury necessitates surgery, it may cost thousands of dollars. How much is dog ACL surgery? Spot Pet Insurance explores more below.
The Price of ACL Surgery for Dogs
ACL/CCL surgery for dogs can be quite expensive. According to internal claims data, the average claim cost for a dog’s ACL surgery is $4,600.85 and the average reimbursement is $2,811.64†.
These numbers point to the fact that ACL surgery for dogs can be quite expensive, and a pet insurance plan can help you get money back on eligible vet bills.
What are Some Signs Your Dog Might Need ACL Surgery?
There are some signs that indicate that your pet may need ACL surgery. According to the Veterinary Specialists of the Rockies, “If your dog exhibits hind leg lameness after light activity, which partially improves with time and then is followed by stiffness after getting up, or if your dog exhibits mild-to-moderate lameness (limping or non-use of the leg) following heavy activity, then they may have partially or completely torn their CCL.1”
Is Dog ACL Surgery Worth It?
You should always consult a trusted veterinarian before you make the decision on getting surgery for your dog or to fully decide if dog ACL surgery is worth it. One of the biggest advantages of ACL/CCL surgery is that it addresses the pain caused by instability and is the only way to fix the joint and ligament themselves2.
Are There Alternatives to Surgery?
There are some alternatives to invasive surgery that dog owners can consider if their pet has damaged their CCL/ACL. Some of the most common ones for mild CCL injuries include pain management, weight management, and modified exercise.
What Can Be Included in The Cost of ACL Surgery?
The cost of ACL surgery may include many things. These include3:
Anesthesia
Follow-up visits
Medications
Physical Therapy
X-rays
How Can I Help My Dog Prevent an ACL Injury?
There are some ways that you could help prevent your dog from getting an ACL injury.
Keeping your dog at a healthy weight
Using pet stairs or ramps to prevent injury
Having safe play areas
Make sure to not have slippery floors at home
How is An ACL Injury Diagnosed?
An experienced veterinarian can diagnose a damaged ACL by performing a physical exam and examining the knee. Your vet may be able to make the diagnosis based on that examination alone, but x-rays or a sedated orthopedic exam may be needed.
Does Pet Insurance Cover ACL Surgery?
Yes, pet insurance plans like our accident-only plan can help cover eligible vet expenses related to ACL surgery as long as it is not pre-existing. Pet insurance coverage plans offered by Spot Pet Insurance are designed to help protect pet owners against unexpected vet bills.
As Spot’s resident cat enthusiast, I am dedicated to researching and sharing information that helps pet owners take the best care of their pets. Pet ownership comes with it’s share of challenges, but my goal is to help make this journey easier.
† Jan 2019 to November 2024 administrative claims data. Includes total reimbursement for accident, illness, and wellness. Individual reimbursement results and coverage vary based on plan type.
Serff, Ian. “What You Should Know about Dog Acl Surgery.” Veterinary Specialists of the Rockies, 16 Sept. 2023, vetsoftherockies.com/education/intro-to-dog-acl-surgery/.
ACL Surgery in Dogs. “ACL Surgery in Dogs.” PetMD, 30 Jan. 2024, www.petmd.com/dog/procedure/acl-surgery-in-dogs.
How Much Does Dog ACL surgery Cost? “How Much Does Dog ACL Surgery Cost?” GoodRx, GoodRx, 2 Nov. 2023 www.goodrx.com/pet-health/dog/dog-acl-surgery-cost. Accessed 20 Nov. 2024.
