Cruciate Surgery for Senior Rocco

This is Rocco, a 14-year-old Jack Russel Terrier. Rocco's owner was concerned about a limp he had developed on his right back leg and booked him for a consult at Animal Trust Vets Blackburn.

After examining and x-raying Rocco’s knee, the team confirmed a ligament in the knee had been damaged (the cranial cruciate ligament, or CCL for short). This condition (further reading: Cruciate Disease) can cause pain and instability in the knee, making it difficult to walk. It can also lead to arthritis when older.

After assessing all the factors, vet surgeon Luis recommended a surgery called cranial close wedge osteotomy as the best approach to get Rocco back to his active self. Just a few days after his surgery, Rocco was back on his paws and has been comfortable and pain-free since his surgery.

Animal Trust Blackburn is part of the wider Animal Trust veterinary group, offering accessible, high-quality care for pets across Lancashire. The clinic provides a range of services, including consultations, diagnostics, imaging and both routine and more complex surgeries. Animal Trust Vets focuses on keeping treatment affordable while maintaining high clinical standards, helping more owners access the care their pets need when they need it most. The team includes experienced vets and nurses who work collaboratively to diagnose and treat a wide variety of conditions, from soft tissue to orthopaedic issues like Rocco’s. Facilities at the Blackburn surgery allow for on-site x-rays, imaging, diagnostics and surgical procedures.

We are pleased to see Rocco making such a strong recovery and returning to a comfortable, active life with his family. His case highlights how early diagnosis and appropriate surgical intervention can significantly improve long-term outcomes for dogs suffering from cruciate ligament injuries.

For more information about the Blackburn clinic and services available, visit the Animal Trust website page for Blackburn online today.