ACL stands for Anterior Cruciate Ligament, which provides vital support to a canine’s knee. A ruptured ACL causes immense discomfort to your dog by way of swelling of their injured knee and shooting pain in the hind limbs. These factors restrict their mobility, making it challenging to lead a healthy, active life.
Affected breeds tend to sit abnormally and walk with a limp owing to the weakness and stiffness they experience in their limbs.
Using a dog knee brace reduces their pain, allowing your pet pooch to put his full body weight on the injured side. With time, the natural healing process takes over, and once healthy scar tissues build-up, your furry pal can resume normal life minus the brace.
Braces today are lightweight and customized, enabling your four-legged companion to move about all day comfortably. They are simple to put on and take off, making your job as a pet parent that much easier.
Choosing the perfect dog knee brace helps address an ACL injury, and this article will guide you through the process. Ticking the following checkboxes enables you to make the right choice:
Made From Suitable Material
Neoprene is the fabric most suited for canine knee braces. It’s soft to the touch, making it sit comfortably against your pet’s skin. However, this material is hardy and serves its purpose by stabilizing your dog’s injured leg. Wet-suits are commonly made from the same material.
Possesses Features That Aid Comfort
A knee brace must be designed in such a way, it facilitates comfort rather than act as a hindrance. Those having a soft coating with Velcro straps to hold the brace in place are less likely to cause uneasiness to your most loyal friend.
Dog-friendly knee braces ensure the animal’s skin is not pinched or roughed up in the act of putting them on, wearing them, or taking them off. It’s advisable to take the brace off every few hours to allow the affected area to breathe easily.
Made To Order
Most manufacturers offer a dog knee brace in varied sizes, so you’re likely to find one that snugly fits your breed. Before you invest in a brace, accurately measure your pet, so you know what size to target.
One other thing to remember here is whether the front or rear leg knee is affected. The fit for both differs slightly as these are specifically designed to sit securely on the part that needs strengthening.
Provides Adequate Support
The tender joints of your canine must be adequately supported, especially when they suffer from an ACL injury. Select a knee brace capable of providing the necessary support and stability that the injured dog urgently requires. If you ignore this vital aspect, the very purpose of investing in a knee brace stands defeated.
In addition to the above, preferably proceed with a dog knee brace that has been approved by a veterinarian. In doing so, your pet will benefit from a quality product that delivers on all fronts.
Seek practical solutions to your dog’s injury problems and gradually steer them back into a happy zone.