Dog Laser Therapy

At our hospitals, we pride ourselves on always searching for innovative ways to care for your dog especially where pain is concerned. Veterinary laser therapy provides a non-invasive, pain-free, surgery-free and drug-free treatment that is used for a variety of conditions and can be performed in conjunction with existing treatments. Laser treatment for dogs employs deep-penetrating wavelengths to promote a chain of chemical reactions known as photobiomodulation. This process helps relieve pain through the release of endorphins (internal opioids), and it stimulates mitochondria to help injured cells to heal at an accelerated pace.

Although improvement is often seen after the first visit, your dog's condition will influence how often and long laser therapy is necessary. Treatments vary in length, but most sites require 3 to 8 minutes. Level IV therapeutic cold laser treatments for dogs are cumulative, so each additional treatment facilitates a greater improvement in your dog's condition. The length and frequency of treatments vary by condition, so allow your doctor will help create a sufficient laser treatment schedule for your dog.

Class IV therapeutic Cold Laser Therapy For Dogs

Class IV Cold Laser therapy may also be referred to as Cold Laser, Low-Level Laser, photobiomodulation or Class IV Laser Therapy. Each of these terms refers to the same therapy, using the same equipment to stimulates cell regeneration and increase blood circulation.

Conditions Can Dog Class IV Laser Therapy Be Used To Treat

Laser therapy can be used to treat a multitude of ailments, including:

  • Muscle, ligament and tendon injuries
  • Post-surgical and soft tissue trauma
  • Back pain
  • Ear infections
  • Gingivitis
  • Hot Spots and open wounds
  • Arthritis/hip dysplasia
  • Degenerative disc disease
  • Anal gland infections

Many of our veterinary therapy patients are older animals with musculoskeletal ailments. Some signs that your senior companion is experiencing pain or discomfort are:

  • Abnormal sitting or lying posture
  • Circling multiple times before lying down
  • Restlessness
  • Whining, groaning or other vocalizations
  • Limping, unable to get up or lie down
  • Difficulty getting into car or down stairs
  • Lack of grooming
  • Won't wag tail
  • Licking or biting area
  • Lack of appetite
  • Trembling

Class IV Laser Therapy For Pain Relief

Laser treatments are an excellent way to provide pain relief for your dog. Laser therapy reduces pain by reducing inflammation through vasodilation and by activating the lymphatic drainage system, cellular mitochondria, thus draining swollen areas. The result is a reduction pain. The laser also stimulates nerve cells that block pain signals from being transmitted to the brain, thereby decreasing nerve sensitivity. Because there is less inflammation, less swelling and an interruption of pain signals to the brain, dogs experience less pain. Laser treatments for dogs also stimulate the production of high levels of naturally-produced endorphins which further counteract pain.

Class IV Laser Therapy To Recover From Injury Or Surgery

Dog laser therapy is a very helpful tool during postoperative recovery. In minor cases, laser therapy alone may be enough to alleviate pain and stimulate the healing process. Because it works directly on injured or affected areas, laser treatments help speed healing, strengthen muscle and tissue, improve mobility and enhance overall quality of life almost immediately.

What Can I Expect At My Dog's Laser Therapy Appointment?

The laser wand will be held directly on or over the affected area for somewhere between 3 and 10 minutes. There is no pain associated with the treatment and most dogs will relax during this time. The almost immediate relief of pain will allow your dog to be comfortable and any anxiety he or she initially experiences will quickly dissipate. Some dogs actually fall asleep during their therapy sessions.

Is Laser Treatment For Dogs Painful Or Uncomfortable?

Laser treatment for dogs is totally pain-free and very comforting. As the laser is administered, your dog may feel a gentle and soothing warmth, tingling, or no sensation at all. For many dogs, laser therapy is very relaxing. As areas of pain or inflammation become more comfortable.

Side Effects Of Laser Therapy For Dogs

Laser treatment for dogs has no known side effects and is considered both safe and effective across the veterinary industry.

Schedule A Dog Laser Therapy Appointment Today

Scheduling an appointment for veterinary laser therapy is as easy as contacting us, or visiting our veterinary hospital in person. Our knowledgeable, compassionate veterinary team can help answer any questions you have.