Veterinary laser therapy is an innovative treatment that has gained popularity in recent years as veterinarians discover its benefits for pets. Used similarly to acupuncture, massage therapy, and other alternative therapies, laser treatment can be used in conjunction with or in place of medication to manage pain, inflammation, and wound healing. ~AAHA Publications

How does laser therapy affect my pet’s tissue?

Therapeutic lasers use light waves of a specific wavelength to cause photobiomodulation, or the alteration of cellular and tissue physiology. Light absorbed by cellular components stimulates electrons and activates cells to promote growth, proliferation, migration, and repair. ~AAHA Publications

Who can benefit from laser therapy?

Laser therapy is used for many medical conditions:

• Acute or Chronic wounds
• Chronic arthritis
• Surgical incisions
• Tendon and ligament injuries
• Traumatic injuries
• Back injury/ IVDD

Pets with limited medical treatment options:

• Pets with liver disease who cannot take medications
• Older pets with diminished organ function
• Cats, for whom only a few pain-control medications are approved

How are laser treatments administered?

During a treatment session, the handheld laser wand is slowly moved back and forth over the tissue, producing a warm, pleasant sensation that most pets enjoy and find relaxing. Sessions typically last 15 to 30 minutes.  The number of sessions and frequency of treatments depends on the injury. Chronic conditions may be treated weekly, whereas surgical incisions and open wounds often require daily treatment. 

What to expect post-treatment:

Within 24 hours of the first treatment, your pet can expect to exhibit a little soreness, similar to what you may feel after a physical therapy appointment. This will diminish as treatments continue and the affected area heals.