If your dog is suffering from tissue damage or pain, cold laser therapy may be a helpful additional treatment. Our veterinarians at Woburn have put together a guide to explain what the treatment entails and what you can anticipate.
What is cold laser therapy for dogs?
Cold laser therapy (also referred to as low-level laser therapy or Class IV laser therapy) uses focused light to increase blood circulation and stimulate the regeneration of cells.
This treatment is non-invasive and does not require medication. It is used to address inflammatory conditions and has also been employed alongside conventional medical treatments for the treatment of arthritis and soft tissue or tendon injuries. Additionally, it can facilitate the healing of wounds.
Does cold laser therapy work on dogs?
Certainly, the veterinary industry has determined that laser therapy for pets is both safe and effective. It can be utilized to treat a variety of conditions, including tissue injuries (such as strains and sprains) and arthritis.
It is often used in conjunction with other treatments to enhance the overall outcome for our animal patients.
Laser therapy has numerous benefits, including:
- Enhance circulation
- Decrease nerve sensitivity
- Reduce pain and swelling
- Speed the healing process
In addition, laser therapy does not have any negative side effects, and no sedation is required. We also do not need to clip or shave the area being treated.
Does laser therapy hurt dogs?
If the veterinarian who performs the laser therapy treatment is skilled and experienced in administering it correctly, your dog should not feel any pain.
Based on our experience, when a vet uses a handheld laser wand to treat injured tissue, it can produce a pleasant sensation that most pets find calming and relaxing.
During the session, all veterinary staff and patients should wear protective goggles to avoid any permanent damage to human and canine retinas from the laser beams.
How often should my dog get cold laser therapy?
The benefits of cold laser therapy increase with time and frequency of treatments. To achieve optimal results, it is important to follow your veterinarian's recommended treatment schedule.
How long does a cold laser therapy treatment last?
The duration of laser therapy sessions may differ per the body part being treated and the amount of laser energy being administered. Generally, a session lasts between 5 to 20 minutes.
Prior to the therapy, a complete physical examination will be conducted, along with x-rays if necessary, to evaluate whether cold laser therapy is the appropriate treatment for your pet.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.