Expert: English Bulldogs ( Marie ) e-mail me at mpmaltese@gmail.com - 12/31/2009

Question
My 9 month old bull dog has a spinal condition that makes his hind legs bow and move slower than his front legs.  He was diagnosed with this condition at 6 months when my husband and I noticed his hind legs dragging and filing the nail down.  He's been to a bulldog specialist who explained to us that it could get a lot worse quickly or might just stay the same.  Recently, our bullie started limping and acting lethargic, we took him to the vet, where we were told that he tore the ACL in his left leg.  He's been on pain meds for a few days and they don't seem to be helping.  We've been told by the vet that surgery should be done, but I'm not sure how they can tell the difference between his spinal condition (causing him to walk funny to begin with) and a torn ACL.  It clearly is in his left leg now, but I'm wondering if his condition could just be worsening.  Any thoughts?  

Answer
Torn ACL in bulldog;
acl injury in canine ;  torn acl in bulldog;
LET me know if you try any of my alternatives?

Hi Megg , So sorry to hear this.  Don't rush into surgery - You can try supplements and see if they help your bullie boy.
Here are some posts on Avoiding surgery in ACL injuries...
I am sure the vet can tell it is the ACL - but many do repair themselves over time.

Look here:  Let me know if you have more questions?
Let you vet know you may want to try some alternatives and rest, first:

SEE here - Ester C - NuVet and more:
http://en.allexperts.com/q/Bulldogs-2360/2009/8/English-Bulldogs-ACL-alternative...


Surgery and Alternatives:
http://en.allexperts.com/q/Bulldogs-2360/2009/7/Snoop-acl-repair-1.htm


After you do the reading - you can contact me at my private e-mail...
mtnmom@gci.net


BEST wishes and Happy New Year!

Marie Peppers LPN MA