This is my sweet Pit Bull mix, Ash. For years, he’s been my absolute favorite running partner, we were doing 15-20 miles a week together and he lived for our morning jogs. About 8 months ago, everything came to a screeching halt. We were on our usual weekend trail run when a rabbit darted across the path. Ash planted his back leg awkwardly to pivot and chase it, and let out this sharp yelp that completely stopped me in my tracks. He imediately lifted his hind leg and refused to put a single ounce of weight on it. Having to carry my heavy, panicked boy back to the car was one of the most heartbreaking and scary days I’ve had as a dog parent.
The vet diagnosed him with a torn CCL (the dog equivalent of an ACL). Because of some other factors, we opted for conservative mangement first. The vet prescribed a strict regimen of pain medications and highly recommended we get a heavyduty orthopedic knee brace (which he's wearing in the photo!). I learned a lot during this process - apparently, if you can keep the knee perfectly stabilized with a brace, the body can build up dense scar tissue over time that eventually acts like a new ligament to support the joint. The rehab process was grueling. Going from running miles a day to strict crate rest and carrying him outside just to pee was so hard on both of us mentally. But the brace did exactly what it was supposed to do; it gave him the mechanical support and confidence he needed to heal safely without re-injuring himself.
Fast forward 8months to today: Ash is officially walking without a limp, and this morning, our vet finally cleared us for short, easy run-walk intervals. Seeing that huge, goofy pibble smile light up his face as we trotted down our street today... am not going to lie, I defnitely shed some happy tears. Our family feels whole again now that our boy is out of pain. Just wanted to share this little victory with a community that understands how special those miles with our dogs are. Don't take your runs with your best friend for granted! ❤️ Has anyone else here navigated returning to running after a major joint injury? Would love to hear your pacing advice!