What will the application of laser therapy do for my pet?
Laser therapy provides a sterile, pain-free, surgery-free, drug-free treatment which is used to treat a variety of injuries, wounds, fractures,neurological conditions, numerous dermatological problems, and pain. Whether your pet is rehabilitating from trauma or injury, healing from wounds, or simply aging, your companion will benefit from this revolutionary new approach to Veterinary medicine.
Laser therapy is the only course of treatment that actually stimulates the body to heal from within. Non-thermal photons of light are administered to the body and absorbed by the injured cells. The cells are then stimulated and respond with a higher rate of metabolism. This results in increased circulation from the body, an anti-inflammatory reaction, relief from pain and an acceleration of the healing process. It is important to remember, however, that laser therapy is not entirely curative and is meant to supplement the healing process.
As a pet owner, it is reasonable for you to feel apprehensive toward theoretically painful treatment for your pet. Laser therapy offers an entirely pain free solution; and, studies show laser therapy to have absolutely zero side-effects. We are pleased to offer our patients this form of therapy as an alternative method of treatment. Laser therapy, also called cold laser therapy, is an increasingly popular holistic healing method used on pets and people.
Most often, pet laser therapy is implemented because a pet owner fears the negative side-effects of non-steroid anti-inflammatories. While brief use of these medications is perfectly safe, long-term use has proven to cause negative side-effects in some pets. Some animals (cats in particular) cannot tolerate these medications. In these instances, laser therapy is ideal.
** Laser therapy is beneficial for pets experiencing the following: **
Arthritis
Bacterial infection
Chronic pain
Hip dysplasia
Inflammation
Muscle injury
Nerve damage
Open wounds
Laser therapy is not recommended for pets that have been diagnosed with cancer. Potentially increasing blood flow to cancerous cells will only cause the cancer to multiply. If your pet has cancer and you would like them to receive alternative pain management, please consult with the veterinarian about the various options available.
How does laser therapy work?
During therapy, the technician concentrates light over affected tissue for periods ranging from 8 to 30 minutes, depending on the issue being treated. Laser therapy works by emitting light that stimulates cells in a process called photo-biotherapy. Photo-biotherapy encourages cell metabolism and protein synthesis, improving cell strength. It stimulates unhealthy cells, reducing pain signals to nerves, increasing blood circulation, and releasing endorphins.
During therapy, your pet will only feel a subtle tingling around the area being treated. After each therapy session your pet will feel less inhibited by their ailment. It is important to remember that every pet’s treatment plan is different. While some pets feel relief after 3 sessions, other pets require weekly sessions until improvement is seen. Monthly maintenance might also be necessary. In choosing laser therapy as your pet’s method of treatment, the veterinarian will discuss a regimen that will best benefit your pet.
If you have any questions about laser therapy or would like to schedule your pet’s first session, contact our office today!
What to expect during a laser therapy treatment session for your companion?
Simply put, it provides relief. As the laser is administered, your pet will relax and enjoy, much like you, experiencing a good massage. The almost immediate relief of pain will allow your pet to be comfortable and any anxiety that your pet initially experienced will dissipate. Pain relief is provided in just a few minutes of therapy and that alone improves the quality of life for your best friend.
Applications include but are not limited to:
