Laser therapy is an effective treatment option for pets’ postoperative recovery and health condition management. Using the power of focused light energy, laser therapy offers a noninvasive and drug-free approach to pets’ pain management and healing. To illustrate the many benefits of laser therapy, our Harbor Pines Veterinary Center team discusses what laser therapy is, the conditions this modality treats, and the benefits it offers pets.
What is laser therapy for pets?
Laser therapy, also known as cold or low-level laser therapy (LLLT), involves using a laser device to deliver focused light energy to specific body areas. Unlike surgical lasers that cut or burn tissue, therapeutic lasers used in veterinary medicine are designed to penetrate the skin without causing damage. The light energy stimulates cellular activity, encouraging cells to divide, grow, and multiply, promoting tissue healing and regeneration.
What pet conditions are treated with laser therapy?
Our Harbor Pines Veterinary Center team often uses laser therapy to treat musculoskeletal injuries and conditions. We also use this treatment modality during pets’ postoperative recovery to encourage quick healing and decrease pain. However, this therapy can be beneficial for a range of pets’ conditions:
- Arthritis and other joint conditions — Laser therapy reduces inflammation and alleviates the pain associated with arthritis, spinal disc disease, and degenerative joint diseases. When a pet’s inflammation is reduced, they experience improved mobility and quality of life.
- Wound healing — Laser therapy accelerates healing, promoting quick recovery from surgical incisions, lacerations, and other wounds. This therapy stimulates pets’ blood circulation, enhances tissue repair, and minimizes their infection risk.
- Soft tissue injuries — Pets suffering from sprains, strains, and muscle or ligament injuries can benefit from laser therapy, which reduces swelling, relieves pain, and speeds up soft tissue injuries’ healing.
- Dermatological conditions — Laser therapy can resolve various skin conditions in pets, including hotspots, dermatitis, and lick granulomas. This treatment modality helps reduce itching and inflammation, leading to quick resolution.
- Postoperative recovery — Laser therapy is often used postoperatively to manage pain, reduce swelling, and encourage tissue healing after procedures such as orthopedic surgeries or dental extractions.
The number of times laser therapy should be used to manage a pet’s condition depends on their issue’s severity or whether it’s chronic. Most pets leave their first laser therapy session feeling better. However, we often recommend multiple therapy sessions for significant beneficial effects.
Advantages of laser therapy for pets
Laser therapy offers versatility in treating various conditions, and pet owners elect laser therapy for their furry friends for many reasons. Laser therapy benefits pets in the following ways:
- Noninvasive — Laser therapy is a painless, noninvasive treatment that does not require anesthesia or surgery, making it safe for cats and dogs of all ages and conditions.
- Pain management — By stimulating the release of endorphins and blocking pain signals, laser therapy is an effective pain relief option for pets suffering from chronic pain or recovering from injuries or surgeries.
- No side effects — Unlike certain medications or invasive treatments, laser therapy has no known side effects when administered by our trained veterinary professionals. Laser therapy is gentle and well-tolerated by most pets.
- Quick and convenient — Laser therapy sessions are typically short, lasting only a few minutes per treatment area. Pets can resume their normal activities immediately after the session, making it a convenient option for busy pet owners.
- Improved quality of life — By reducing pain and inflammation and promoting quick healing, laser therapy improves pets’ overall quality of life, allowing them to enjoy an active and comfortable lifestyle.
Laser therapy can manage or heal your furry friend’s medical condition by offering a safe, effective, and drug-free treatment option. Whether your pet has arthritis, a wound, or a dermatological issue, laser therapy can provide significant benefits and improve their well-being. Schedule an appointment with our Harbor Pines Veterinary Center team to determine if laser therapy is appropriate for your pet’s specific needs and condition.